Homeless living is difficult, here are some ways to make money while homeless. Well, here are practical options to earn your money when you are homeless.
Gig Opportunities
Gigs on Craigslist: One of the finest resources for quick jobs is Craigslist. One can find every day a different gig available, going from manual labor to more specialized tasks. If you don’t have access to a computer or the internet, consider visiting your local library, because many libraries have free internet and computers to use.
Getting Help with Technology: If you are concerned about staying connected, many shelters have access to phones or a means to obtain a no-cost phone. This can help you job search and keep in touch with potential employers. Don’t be afraid to ask shelter staff for assistance-many of them are good at referring people to job resources.
Recycling and Side Hustles
Recycling: Perhaps not the most lucrative option, but you could certainly make a steady, although smallish amount of money through recycling. You can get about $0.10 for a bottle or can in any state that has a CRV. Put some work into it-you could collect the recyclable things from curbside bins, particularly on the days when recycling is collected-and be paid roughly about $10 an hour. Look for full bins; they are treasure!
Other Odd Jobs Besides Recycling: Furthermore, create ideas of other small jobs you are able to do. Washing cars, cleaning yards, or running errands for your neighbors can also be a source of earning some extra bucks. Referrals through word of mouth may provide you with further opportunities. Hence, do not be shy to state or advertise your skills in the neighborhood.
Networking and Resources
Asking for Assistance: It is one of the most powerful means of getting out of poverty. It’s not as terrible as it seems, either. Don’t underestimate communication. Much as with the sentiment expressed by the Alcoholics Anonymous mantra, “You can’t get what you want if you don’t ask for it,” call 311 to connect with social services that can give you information about resources available in your immediate area and the many people-food, job leads, temporary housing-who are willing to help.
Reach Out for Community Resources: Many local nonprofits and charities have specific programs designed to help homeless individuals. Such services can include food, job training, and even housing programs. Go out and attend community meetings or workshops to get to know people and learn about the resources available.
How to Use Your Homeless Benefits
Food Stamps and Assistance Programs: Investigate government assistance programs available for you. Most states provide food stamps without requiring a permanent address, which greatly reduces daily expenses and allows you to use your more-limited resources for other needs.
Housing Programs: These help by waiting-listing low-income housing and shelters that offer longer-term solutions in case they can get on such a list. Some have transitional housing, guiding the residents from homelessness into stable living.
Can you make money while homeless?
While homelessness is not easy, there are various ways to make money while homeless. Avail yourself of gig opportunities, recycling, and community resources that help to sustain one. Above all, remember that you will never be alone-homeless people have many organizations willing to help them out. Keep active as much as possible, network, and take up any opportunity that may be available. Circumstances do change, and with willpower, you will find a way forward