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Every day, so many people wonder, “Why don’t they just get a job?” as they pass by someone who is experiencing homelessness. It’s an easy thing for people with homes to wonder about from the comfort of their cars or as they quickly walk past, and it’s easily forgotten as they round the corner. But yes, when you’re unhoused and living in survival mode 24/7, the thought of needing a job crosses your mind—a lot.
Contrary to what most people assume, many unhoused people want to work. Here’s the good news: although finding the solution to your unemployment is challenging, it’s do-able. There is a way out of unemployment and homelessness, with plenty of compassionate people who are willing and able to help you.
Drug abuse, alcoholism, mental illness, crime, and other factors that often contribute to homelessness are also often barriers to employment. Fortunately, there are many employment resources for people with these backgrounds.
What Kinds of Jobs Are Available for People Experiencing Homelessness?
Day Labor:
Many places like construction sites, farms, ranches, and hardware stores offer this type of work on an informal basis. These jobs require heavy manual labor and are often paid in cash at the end of your workday.
Temp Agencies:
Sign up at as many temporary staffing agencies as possible in your area. Some temp agencies don’t mind if you call them every morning, but others prefer a weekly call to confirm your availability. These agencies pay once a week.
Housing In Exchange for Outdoor Work:
Some ski resorts, campgrounds, and other recreation areas offer jobs during certain times of the year. While this type of work isn’t glamorous and often only seasonal, it should help you land a place to stay for a while.
Gig Economy:
If you have a reliable vehicle, you can find work as a restaurant and grocery delivery driver.
Freelancing is also an option if you have marketable skills.
Restaurants:
Some restaurants can help lift people out of homelessness. Catalyst Kitchens is a network of companies with on-the-job training programs in the food industry. Visit their website for more information and links to affiliated restaurants throughout the United States. https://catalystkitchens.org/member-map/
For example, programs in the Pacific Northwest, like FareStart in Seattle and Stone Soup in Portland, Oregon, provide on-the-job training. The Stone Soup program also provides resume, cover letter writing, and interview skills.
Other Employment Programs for the Homeless:
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development has resources for employment and homelessness: https://www.hudexchange.info/housing-and-homeless-assistance/
Disabled Workers:
Ticket to Work is a program for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients who want to return to work. Call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY) or visit https://choosework.ssa.gov/.
Veterans:
The US Department of Veterans Affairs has employment programs for homeless veterans, including job development and placement. For more information, call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans hotline at 1-877-4AID-VET.
Seniors:
Older Worker Program Finder:
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