It’s widely believed that finding employment signifies the end of homelessness for those unlucky enough to find themselves living on the streets. So people are often surprised to discover that a significant percentage of those experiencing homelessness are employed, either full- or part-time.
How does such a situation arise, what are the lived experiences of those in such circumstances? And what can be done to resolve the issue?
The Extent of the Problem
A University of Chicago study using homeless data from 2011-2018 indicates over half of people living in shelters were employed in some capacity. Among those unsheltered, this number drops to just over 40%. The situation is not unique to the U.S.; a similar British study found 55% of families living in shelters in England worked.
Another recent report looking at the fast food industry in California discovered that the industry accounts for about 11% of working homeless people in the state. However, white-collar workers like doctors and lawyers—and even professional athletes—can be homeless. A job isn’t always a guarantee of a roof over one’s head.
Why Are Some Working People Homeless?
There are several reasons working people can be without housing. Sometimes, family relationships break down, leaving one partner (and possibly children) homeless. Other times, people are evicted or reach the end of a lease without the necessary savings to cover the costs of moving, which often include a deposit, first and last month’s rent, and sometimes agency fees.
However, increasingly, a combination of low wages, high rents, and a lack of affordable housing are keeping working Americans homeless. The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, although 30 states and a few dozen cities and counties have higher minimums. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, renting a two-bedroom apartment requires a wage of at least $23 per hour, or about four times the federal minimum wage. (The coalition found that in 2022, a one-bedroom apartment cost on average $44,200 per year and a two-bedroom, $53,706.)
Meanwhile, the University of Chicago study indicates the average annual pre-tax income for homeless individuals living in shelter in 2015 was $8,169—much too little to afford the average market rate housing.
Challenges Faced When Working While Homeless
Unhoused workers frequently report hiding their lack of housing from their employers out of fear of discrimination. Rhode Island defines homelessness as a protected class in the workplace, but elsewhere it is generally not recognized as such. This can be especially difficult in situations when a permanent address is required. Homeless workers can feel alienated from their housed colleagues as well. Other challenges can include:
- Maintaining personal hygiene to be presentable at work.
- Getting adequate sleep to concentrate and function at work fully. While shelters provide beds, disruptive residents can make a good night’s sleep difficult. Personal safety and the security of one’s belongings isn’t always guaranteed either.
- Eating healthily and cost effectively to maintain one’s energy and health to perform work tasks acceptably. Shelters often don’t allow residents to bring food or cook for themselves.
- Being punctual. Shelters may be inconveniently located, meaning time and money spent traveling to and from work.
- Avoiding arrest. In many cities, it’s effectively illegal to be homeless, as resting in public spaces is prohibited. Additionally, the constant stress and other challenges of homelessness can make people turn to substance abuse.
Tips for Homeless Workers
If you or someone you know is trying to hold down a job while experiencing homelessness, learning from others’ experiences can make it easier. Here are some pieces of advice:
- Before you lose your permanent address, get a Post Office (P.O.) box, as you need an address to get one.
- Remember that you do not need to have housing or even a mailing address to get Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (aka food stamps). It’s a common myth that you do.
- Pay for a gym membership so you have access to a shower. In addition, some gyms allow you to store items in lockers 24/7, which can be helpful if you need a secure place for your small belongings. Look for a 24-hour gym, so you’ll always have somewhere safe and warm to hang out, watch TV, and drink clean water.
- Try your best to keep your personal documents safe. Your driver’s license or identification card and your Social Security card will often be requested when you fill out applications and apply for assistance programs. Keep your documents close to you, or if possible, rent a safe deposit box at a bank or credit union.
- Get a library card so you can use the internet there. Look up assistance programs, charities, food banks, soup kitchens, shelters, and other resources in your city.
- Familiarize yourself with the neighborhood around food banks and soup kitchens—looking like you fit in can help keep you safe.
How Can Employers Help Homeless Workers?
If you’re an employer concerned about your employees experiencing homelessness, consider putting together a list of local resources for staff. Making it freely available will prevent workers from having to make their status known.