Last week's blog was on homelessness - statistics and mental health problems. When I worked with the #homeless community, one question always arose whenever I discussed my work with others not involved. #Why don't they just get a job? Do you have five minutes I often replied? Have you ever thought about the obstacles they face when looking for a job?
Applying for jobs is difficult for most people, especially those living on the street. Typically, the homeless person doesn't have a resume. I often went to the local library and assisted them in creating one. They might have a phone or even a pad but most do not have laptops. Some have adequate schooling while others dropped out at an early age. The work history of most homeless people is less than impressive. Many earn money by doing under-the-table work, selling drugs, having sex, stealing, or engaging in other illegal behavior. Even a creative resume writer is challenged by this type of history. The homeless tend to change jobs frequently, do day labor or short-term work, and miss work more often.
The Resume is created and it's now time to start the job search. Obviously, they are limited in the type of jobs they can apply for. Most jobs require basic info before submitting a resume. If a full application is needed this sends most homeless people into a panic. Frequent moves, incarcerations, time in treatment, bad credit, horrible driving history (maybe license lost or surrendered due to violations, etc). Most applications end by stating that if an applicant is dishonest that is grounds for termination. Instant dilemma. Lie and get the job but risk losing it if the company finds out or tells the truth and gets turned down. Personal references can be a problem. Many homeless people have burned all their bridges, alienated family and friends, and do not have any acceptable references. How do you list your home address if you live on the street, in the woods, or at a shelter?
The Resume is done. Applications have been submitted. It's time for the interview. Again
more obstacles to conquer. How will they get to the interview? What will they wear? Take the bus you say. That requires a bus ticket. You then say if they didn't spend all their money on #booze and drugs they'd have money to buy a bus ticket. I'd say you are being judgmental, due to your lack of understanding. This is a problem for many homeless individuals but not all of them. Thousands of people go to work every day under the influence of booze or drugs. That's a big problem but not one that is unique to the homeless. When was the last time you took a city bus? It's one thing to do this occasionally but for a job interview, it adds another challenge. There are bus routes and schedules. Sometimes you have to change buses. Sometimes they run late or early. Rarely do they ever drop you off in front of the place you are going to. You then have to walk a block or two or longer. What if it is cold or hot or raining?
Before you decide on the mode of transportation you have to decide what to wear. We've all seen homeless individuals and usually, their clothing would not be fit for an interview. So, they need to go to a clothing donation facility. This is not a Goodwill store where they have a large selection to pick from. At the donation centers, you get whatever they have that day. You now have clothes and you've decided on transportation.
The day of the interview is here. Where does a #homeless person take a shower? There are portable shower facilities but typically not available 7 days a week. Most shelters require you to leave the facility after breakfast. What if your interview is at 4:00 and you have to walk the streets in your Sunday best while waiting? Sometimes you see a #homeless person pushing a shopping cart with everything they own. Crammed into bags. Where have they been keeping their interview clothes? As a last resort, they might have to go to a public restroom to shower. They needed a haircut but probably didn't get it. Finally dressed they head for the bus route.
I've done many job interviews but never one like this. But I have worked with many clients helping them navigate this process. Getting a job can also create problems. The homeless often lose their IDs, driver's licenses, cell phones, and other important documents. They might need uniforms or tools. If they have children, childcare is probably an issue. They likely need support or training. The problems are as different as the individuals themselves.
Now, if someone asks you why the homeless don't just get a job, you know the answer. This blog might seem depressing and hopeless to some. But it doesn't have to be. My desire is that it will encourage you to think about what you can do to help. While I was working with this population I helped many people find jobs and get off the street. I had one client who rode her bicycle five days a week from downtown Wilmington to Wrightsville Beach to work, for a whole year. Rain or shine. She completed training to be a CNA, now has a car, and supports herself. Numerous studies show that housing is the major factor in helping the homeless rebuild their lives. Nationwide there's a critical shortage of housing for the homeless. Awareness is needed to make changes. Next week I'll talk more about common misconceptions about the homeless.
