Anthony Crawford, 49, was born and raised in Washington, D.C. As a teenager, he dropped out of Jefferson Junior High School because he thought he “could learn more on the streets than in a book.” He never graduated from high school. Afterwards, he held several different jobs, mostly working as a cook at places including Fort McNair, the Phil-lips Flagship Restaurant and Hogates. Then his father passed away in 1979, and, as Anthony put it, “Everything went to pot and I got lost.” He lived on the streets for a bit and then started his own home-improvement company in 1983. He also reunited with his family. In 1999, his mother died, and in 2000, his grandmother passed. “It all went to pots again,” he said. Anthony ended up homeless and started staying on the streets of D.C. He learned about Street Sense in 2005 from another vendor, sold it briefly for a few months, and then rejoined full–time about six months ago. He is now living at his niece’s house in Maryland and is staying there as a caretaker. Anthony is also part of the new StreetSense TV crew.

How did you become homeless?

It was the death of my mom followed by the sudden death of my grandmother. I was close to both of them, and I took it really hard and kind of just gave up on life.

Why do you sell Street Sense?

It gives me a sense of accomplishment, helping other homeless people and putting a face on the homeless so people don’t just pass them by but get to know who they are.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In my own house, married with a couple of kids.

Favorite music?

Jazz. Kenny G especially.

Favorite food?

Any seafood, but I love shrimp.

Favorite movie?

“Die Hard”

Favorite author?

Sidney Sheldon