Antony Jackson of We Can Now creates sustainable pathways out of homelessness for hundreds of individuals each year, meeting them where they are and giving them a hand up through his own lived experience.

Inspired by his own experience of growing up not knowing what his food and housing situation would look like daily, Antony Jackson founded We Can Now (WCN) with others who lived the hardships of homelessness and food insecurity. The organization operates with a deep understanding of the challenges their community faces and uniquely takes a direct, hands-on method to helping. This approach is executed through thoughtfully crafted programs designed to provide immediate assistance and empower individuals to regain stability and independence long-term.

Since the official launch of We Can Now as a nonprofit in 2020, Antony has given aid to around 800 people each year across the range of the programs he’s created. Not only that, he’s done so in a cost-effective way, saving Austin millions of dollars through the WCN Diversion Program. While the city’s Rapid Rehousing Program costs approximately $35,000 per person annually, WCN’s diversion efforts require only $1,300 to $2,000 per individual, majorly cutting down costs. He also started a healthy food access effort which ensures those unhoused neighbors receive consistent, nutritious, and culturally relevant food; similarly, there’s a food pantry where people can access essential resources in a safe, welcoming environment including clean drinking water, hygiene products, clothing, survival gear, and more healthy food options. Antony didn’t stop there though – he wanted to make sure that any individual experiencing homelessness could be helped no matter where they were, so he launched a street outreach program within We Can Now. Volunteers meet individuals exactly where they are, whether that be on sidewalks, in encampments, under bridges, in the woods, or elsewhere, and Antony’s proud of the fact that his team builds trust with those they help through shared lived experiences.

What began as a small crusade funded from Antony’s own pocket has grown into a movement. “It started with him (Antony) just going out and doing it, and it became a dream for him,” shares Shakendra Jackson, WCN’s cofounder. We Can Now has already made a huge impact, and she – along with their team – is highly enthusiastic about their fight to help the unhoused. “That’s the next step!” she says. “To keep going, and to end it. To end homelessness.”