Jonesboro, AR – Jonesboro Right Now – A new nonprofit organization is working to bring comprehensive homelessness support and employment resources to Jonesboro and its surrounding communities.
“Together We Home” is an initiative led by Rashawn Vaughan that is dedicated to helping individuals and families experiencing homelessness rebuild their lives.
“I feel like everyone, every person deserves a safe place to sleep, like having a warm meal and a hope for a better tomorrow or in the future,” he said.
While immediate relief is part of the plan, the organization is looking past short-term fixes to focus heavily on long-term and lifestyle stabilization.
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Together We Home intends to partner directly with the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services location on East Nettleton Avenue to bridge the gap between homelessness and steady employment.
Vaughan said the nonprofit will help clients fill out job applications, obtain critical identification documents such as Social Security cards, and secure on-the-job training opportunities with local employers.
“I feel like helping people get off the streets and finding stable living conditions for them and jobs… to get back on their feet,” he said. “That’s what I’m trying to aim for now.”
However, to turn this idea into reality, the organization must secure a physical facility.
Vaughan is actively searching for a location that can house a small initial setup with room to scale up. His ideal space would accommodate 10 to 30 beds, a kitchenette and dining area, and stand-up shower facilities.
He said he has already looked at a potential building on Airport Road, noting that its location just outside the city limits might ease friction with residents.
“I know some people don’t like having a homeless shelter around town,” he said. “I just really want to help them get off their feet… I just hate them sleeping outside on the side of the road.”
While waiting for responses to letters sent to the mayor and city board members about property leads, Vaughan has been funding temporary assistance out of his own pocket, occasionally booking hotel rooms for families who reach out to him on Facebook for help.
Though Together We Home has already built a passionate group of online volunteers, Vaughan said it needs a broader community push to fund a 24/7 shelter option where no one in need is turned away.
“I just need the community to come together to help me make this happen,” he urged. “By supporting this program, I hope the city or other volunteers will help reduce homelessness with me to improve public safety as well and strengthen overall health and stability for our community”.
If you wish to volunteer or donate essential supplies (such as blankets, pillows, toiletries, non-perishable food, or clothing), you can contact Together We Home by calling 870-351-3027 or emailing twe.home1@gmail.com. You can also visit the organization’s Facebook page for more information.
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