The Struggle to Employ the Homeless

In today’s recession backlash, homelessness has gained a new face.  Many professionals with outstanding skillsets find themselves in dire financial situations.  The news companies often showcase a sparse few of these individuals.  Some, like Maurice Johnson, holds three degrees including a PhD, and yet lives homeless on the streets of Boston.

Many people look at the homeless population and think, “Why don’t they get a job?”  However, by putting yourself in their shoes, you can easily see why many homeless individuals struggle to gain employment.

In order to secure employment, you must have a valid ID, resume, references, and appropriate clothing.  Many homeless individuals cannot renew drivers’ licenses or ID’s due to not having permanent housing.  While you can put a P.O. Box on a license, the DMV must have a verifiable place of residence for every individual.   

Many homeless people do not have access to an internet connection or printer, although many states are beginning to offer these services for free.  References are also difficult to get while you are homeless, especially if you have been homeless for an extended period of time.

Finding appropriate clothing can be as easy as going to the Goodwill.  There are also charity organizations like Dress for Success that offer professional clothing for the homeless and disadvantaged. However, keeping them clean is a challenge.  Some dry cleaning establishments have offered free dry cleaning for homeless people’s interview attire.

Experience & computer skills are another leading factor in hiring decisions.  If an individual has been homeless for a prolonged time, they may lack the computer skills necessary for entry-level jobs.  Many community centers and state offices have started initiatives to educate the unemployed, including free computer classes, typing classes, and job search assistance.

There are organizations like the Cara Program that offer job training, and placement for the homeless and unemployed.  They work with many companies, including quite a few Fortune 500 companies, to place qualified individuals in successful positions. 

While there seems to be an abundance of resources for the homeless, many are still left out.  Without adequate resources, these individuals find themselves passed over time and time again in the job market.  From a company’s point of view, hiring someone with no permanent residence, no phone, and no reliable transportation seems unwise. 

So, the next time you pass a homeless person on the street, instead of thinking about what they should be doing, think of what you could be doing to help.  Research volunteer opportunities in your area, and volunteer some of your time.  Expanding homeless services could greatly reduce the homeless and unemployment problem in your area.  For all we know, that homeless person on the corner could be the next Chris Gardner.

 

Megan Wilson is a stay at home mom and blogger.  She is passionate about social issues and 211 Software.