Atlanta man works to help city’s unhoused population

ATLANTA — Atlanta is home to more than a quarter of the state’s homeless population, and with a backlog of evictions in Fulton County, more people are becoming unhoused every day.

However, one man is using his retirement to ensure that those who find themselves on the streets still have access to basic human necessities.

What some may consider a chore is everything Nicky Crawford dreamed of. With the help of a team of engineers led by Georgia Tech students, Crawford now has a fully functional mobile laundry facility for people living on the streets.

“What we’re trying to do is get them clothes that they can have for the week so they can change clothes, because a lot of times it’s not them that smells, it’s the clothes.” , explained Crawford.

The idea came about a few months after the launch of Crawford’s Flowing with Blessings Inc. shower trailer, which has been a place of relief for so many people living on the streets for years now.

And his work doesn’t stop there. It’s created a community to meet people where they are, whether it’s getting a haircut, getting health screenings, or even grabbing a hot meal.

On Wednesday, Crawford unveiled its laundry bus at a June 19 event in downtown Atlanta. Crawford and his family have partnered with several other organizations, including PAD (Policing Alternatives & Diversion Initiative), the Morehouse School of Medicine, local barbers and regional Veterans Affairs representatives.

“I tell them when they come here, it’s a family environment. We want you to come here. Feel comfortable. I’ll get you something to eat. Take a shower,” Crawford said.

This day shows that with a little compassion, love and acceptance, change can happen.

“I always had love for people who were less fortunate because I think I told you…other than the grace of God, that could be me,” Crawford added.