Help Tony B Get a New Van and Shelter

This is the story of Tony B, a homeless man I met yesterday working on Haight Street as a San Francisco Police Ambassador.

Tony B, a man who has spent his life on the streets. Despite facing immense hardships, he remains a kind and gentle soul, always greeting the world with a warm smile and a kind word for strangers. Though homeless, Tony possesses remarkable talents, he is an incredible artist and a gifted rapper. Yet, despite his kindness and creativity, life has not granted him a way off the streets, and he continues to struggle for stability.

For years, Tony has been living in an old van, his only shelter. Unfortunately, the van is packed with his artwork and personal belongings, leaving him no space to sleep lying down. Every night, he is forced to sleep sitting upright in the driver’s seat, which doesn’t even recline. Recently, life dealt him yet another blow when his van’s differential broke. In a desperate attempt to fix it, he spent most of the little money he had, leaving him in an even more vulnerable position. Every day Tony has to unload and load his van which takes 4 hours total. This shows such dedication to his craft.

Today, while working as a San Francisco Police Ambassador on Haight Street, I had the privilege of meeting Tony. Valerie Matthews, a fellow Ambassador with a heart of gold, introduced me to him. Valerie has been looking out for Tony, often buying him meals because she feels deeply for his situation.

As we spoke with Tony, I asked if he would be willing to share his story on video. Without hesitation, he agreed and delivered his entire life story through a freestyle rap, completely unprepared. It was nothing short of incredible. His words were raw, heartfelt, and powerful, a reflection of the struggles and dreams that shape his life.

As we continued our conversation, I asked Tony why, after all these years, he was still homeless. He explained that he has been trying for years to secure housing in San Francisco and the Bay Area, but he has been overlooked time and time again. He shared his frustration that many housing opportunities seem to go to others before struggling American citizens like himself. In a city known for its sanctuary policies, Tony feels left behind, forgotten by the very system meant to help those in need.

Hearing his story moved me deeply, and I made Tony a promise,I will do whatever I can to help him. My dream is to surprise him with enough money to buy a new van, one that would at least allow him to sleep comfortably. With Valerie’s help, we are also looking into possible housing solutions, though the challenge remains great. Tony’s van holds all of his worldly possessions, making it difficult to downsize, and he constantly worries about finding a safe place to park without the risk of break-ins.

If Tony’s story touches your heart, I ask you to consider helping him in any way you can. Every little bit counts. I truly believe that God blesses those who show kindness to others in need.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. I hope you also take a moment to watch Tony’s freestyle rap, it’s a testament to his incredible talent and spirit. I was in awe of his ability to tell his story so powerfully, off the cuff.

Please give anything you can so that Tony can buy a van so he can transport all his art and finally be able to sleep comfortably.

God bless you all.

Angelo

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