The Other Ones Foundation is a nonprofit organization in Austin, Texas. Their mission is “transitioning Austin’s homeless neighbors into an engaged community through shelter, opportunity, and support.” They offer individuals who are experiencing homelessness; work opportunities, case management, and humanitarian aid.
The Other Ones Foundation, also known as TOOF for short, is focused on helping the marginalized, those who are vulnerable and considered the “Other Ones”. They “believe in the extraordinary value of every human life, and that everyone deserves to be fulfilled.”
Backstory of TOOF
The Other Ones Foundation was started in the summer of 2017 by Chris Baker and Phil Leal to “bring their innovative ideas for addressing homelessness to life.” Their goal was and still is to provide ways for homeless individuals to make income so they could be able to afford housing and get off of the streets.
Workforce First
The Other Ones Foundation started Workforce First which is an alternative employment program, that offers homeless individuals an opportunity to “work in service of the community as an alternative to panhandling.”
Some of the work they do includes environmental clean-up, invasive species removal, and more. In return for their service, they are paid $15 an hour as well as provided with lunch and transportation to work!
In order to qualify for the Workforce First program, the individual must be over 18 and has either experienced or is experiencing homelessness.
Mobile Hygiene Clinic
Mobile Hygiene Clinic (MHC) also known as Box of Rain, was started when COVID-19 broke out in Austin, Texas. MHC was initially only one shower trailer that went around the city offering showers and handing out toiletries and lunch to those living on the streets.
Eventually MHC grew and became extremely popular which led to TOOF opening several permanent locations along with the mobile Box of Rain.
The awesome thing about MHC is that it is run by individuals who are experiencing homelessness that take part in the Workforce First program.
Esperanza Community
Esperanza Community is a 150-person sanctioned encampment in Austin, Texas. The Other Ones Foundation partnered up with a resident elected Leadership Committee to serve as stewards for the Esperanza Community.
Esperanza Community program offers “work opportunities, case management, hygiene and laundry facilities, a day shelter with internet and mail access, and a community kitchen.”
TOOF also currently building a 200-person shelter complex that will help the individuals escape the streets and into a more “safe and dignified living space where they can work through TOOF programs and towards stable housing.”
Now it’s Your Turn to Get Involved
The Other Ones Foundation offers so many great ways for individuals, like you who care about serving the community, to get involved. You can help by donating money, items, and your time!!
Remember it doesn’t matter how much you give but the time and thought you gave to help someone else in need. Here are some of the ways you can get involved with TOOF:
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Written By: Jayne R
Edited By: Analisa F
Tags: Austin, Texas, The Other Ones Foundation, Non-profit, Homeless, Food, Housing, Jobs