Navigating the challenges of college life is daunting enough, but doing so while homeless is a struggle that no student should face. I've continued working two jobs and staying in school full-time, but despite my best efforts, l've received no meaningful help from the university. Since April, I have been grappling with the reality of attending the University of North Texas (UNT) without a stable place to call home. My academic pursuits, social interactions, and mental well-being have all been compromised by the constant uncertainty of where I will sleep at night.

I went to student services only to be referred to shelters that are either full, unsafe, or offer only 30-day stays that are unworkable for students juggling jobs and school. I have even been removed by campus police for resting between work shifts. I wasn't causing harm, just trying to survive. I was told "rules are rules". It shouldn't be a crime to be poor. There are no rules that protects students from being criminalized for being poor. This needs to change immediately.

UNT prides itself on fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, yet there remains a significant gap in resources for students like myself who find themselves without a home. This is not just a personal challenge; it is a systemic issue that unacceptably affects several students across campus.

Research conducted by the Wisconsin

HOPE Lab reveals that nearly 14% of college students are homeless, with housing insecurity impacting nearly half of all students at some point during their studies. Given these staggering statistics, it is imperative that UNT implement emergency housing solutions to ensure all students have a safe and stable environment to focus on their education.

One concrete solution is the establishment of emergency shelters on campus and assigning a campus liaison to coordinate support services for affected students.These shelters can provide temporary housing to students in crisis, offering them a place to stay during semesters or until they can secure permanent housing. Additionally, UNT can partner with local housing programs to offer long-term support and resources to students in need.

Furthermore, the creation of safe spaces on campus - quiet, supportive environments dedicated to students experiencing housing insecurity - would be invaluable. These spaces could provide not only shelter but also access to counselors, academic support, and peer networks, creating a community of support and understanding.

By addressing this critical issue, UNT would not only uphold its commitment to student success but also demonstrate leadership and compassion in tackling the housing crisis affecting students nationwide. I urge the University of North Texas to prioritize the needs of its most vulnerable students

I'm also proposing a call to action to the Texas State Legislature to support this petition.

Please sign this petition to demand UNT leadership, the Texas State Legislature, and the UNT Student Government that students deserve dignity and safety, regardless of their housing status. Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed without the burden of housing insecurity looming over them. Let's push for change and show UNT the urgent need for these vital resources.