Finding Employment When You're Homeless

Ask your local shelter about training and employment resources. One major hurdle for unhoused individuals seeking employment is a lack of relevant job skills. Visit a nearby shelter and inquire about training programs or resources they may offer or recommend. Some shelters run in-house courses, while others can connect you with organizations that provide skill-building opportunities. These programs often require you to apply but are usually offered at no cost.

What can I learn from job skills courses?

Workplace essentials, such as gaining computer literacy.

Interview preparation, including how to present yourself confidently and highlight your current strengths.

Communication and teamwork, including conflict resolution strategies.

These types of courses are often provided by shelters, nonprofits like Chrysalis in Los Angeles, or state-run initiatives such as Washington’s THRIVE program.

Visit local churches if shelters don't offer programs. If you're uncomfortable reaching out to shelters or aid organizations, a church in your area might be able to help. Many offer skills classes, support groups, or faith-based assistance to help you reenter the workforce.

• Attend a service and speak to the pastor or priest afterward. Let them know you're searching for a job and ask if they provide any training programs or resources that might assist you.

Make the most of every workshop or session you attend. Absorb as much information as possible—take notes, ask questions, and engage actively. You might even follow up with the instructor for additional support or clarification.

• These sessions are valuable tools—maximize their benefits. The skills you learn here can directly impact your job prospects.
• If you have a particular field in mind, prioritize sessions that relate to your interests. For instance, those aiming for office roles should focus on computer or organizational training.

Seek substance abuse support through social service groups if needed. Struggling with addiction can seriously hinder your ability to find and maintain work. Reach out to local shelters or aid organizations for recovery assistance. Many places that offer job training also provide addiction treatment programs.

• Getting clean is a vital first step in securing a job and transforming your life.

Ask shelters about temporary housing that supports job-seekers. Some state-run initiatives offer free, apartment-style accommodations to homeless individuals seeking employment. These programs provide stability, confidence, and a physical address to use in job applications.

• Check with local shelters or support organizations to see if your state has a housing option for unemployed homeless individuals actively searching for work.

Tap into local shelters and organizations to uncover job leads. Shelters and support groups that provide skills training often also assist with job placement. Ask staff members about available opportunities and how to begin the application process.

• Reach out to your area’s homelessness coalition to discover additional programs like Goodwill, Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, or other faith-based and community organizations that support employment efforts.
• Most of these groups have websites detailing their services, eligibility criteria, and contact information.

Expand your job search online to increase your chances. Going online opens up more job possibilities beyond what shelters and local programs offer. Use computers at libraries or shelters to explore job listings in your area.

• Start with the US Department of Labor’s website for employment programs geared toward homeless individuals.
• The Department of Housing and Urban Development's Homeless Assistance Program (HAP) also offers job-related services.
• Try specific search terms like “entry level warehouse jobs in Houston” or “janitorial work in Miami.”
• Use platforms like LinkedIn or Craigslist to find listings.
• Focus on jobs that align with your current skills or that don’t require prior experience. Temporary or part-time roles can help build a foundation while you pursue full-time work.

Create a strong resume to highlight your strengths to employers. A resume helps show employers your capabilities and previous experience. Include your full name and contact information at the top, followed by a chronological list of your work history. If formal job experience is limited, include volunteering, school projects, or personal efforts that showcase your reliability and work ethic.

• If you don’t own a computer, use an online word processor like Google Docs and save your resume in your email for easy access anywhere.
• Ask shelter staff for help reviewing or building your resume. They can guide you on how to best represent your background.

Set up an email account to begin job applications. Having an email address is crucial when applying for jobs and can be created for free. Use a computer at a shelter or public library to sign up with services like Gmail or Yahoo. Check your inbox every couple of days to stay on top of employer responses.

• Choose an email address that includes your full name and sounds professional, like “[email protected].”

Use your most recent address or a P.O. box on applications. When asked for an address, be as accurate as you can. If you’ve recently lost housing but still receive forwarded mail, list your previous address. Otherwise, consider renting an affordable P.O. box from a post office or UPS store—some allow you to use their street address for incoming mail.

• You might also be able to use the address of a local shelter—just ask the staff first.

Pick up an inexpensive cell phone and plan for job callbacks. Purchase a budget-friendly cell phone with either a prepaid card or pay-as-you-go plan—you’ll only be charged for the minutes you use.

• A phone is a vital tool for job hunting, so keep it with you at all times.
• When answering, use a calm, professional tone. For instance, say “Hi, this is David,” and try to speak from a quiet location.

Complete job applications with clarity and detail. Most applications will request your resume and contact info—like your full name, address, phone, and email. Others might ask for a cover letter or brief questionnaire responses. Make your writing clean and sharp to leave a great impression and show you’re serious about the role.

Buy secondhand, professional clothes for interviews and keep them neat. Visit thrift stores like Goodwill to find affordable, clean, and business-appropriate clothing. If you have a vehicle, hang up items or fold them neatly to prevent wrinkles.

• Aim for at least 5 shirts and 2–3 pairs of pants. Changing your shirt regularly gives the appearance of a varied wardrobe, even if you reuse pants.
• Store your interview clothes in clean containers like boxes or shopping bags to protect them.

Freshen up in a public restroom or use wet wipes before your interview. Looking clean and presentable goes a long way in making a positive first impression. Even if you’re without stable housing or regular access to facilities, do your best—make sure your clothes and body are free of visible dirt and odors.

Getting Ready for an Interview

Dress in clean slacks or a skirt with a neat shirt.

Style your hair so it lies flat and tidy. A quick trim—either DIY with scissors or at an affordable salon—can sharpen your look.

Wash up as thoroughly as possible. Use wet wipes to clean your face, hands, and underarms. If you have access to a public restroom, rinse your body with water and pat dry using paper towels.

Tip: Even if you don’t reside in a shelter, staff may allow you to use the bathroom if you explain you’re preparing for a job interview and need to freshen up.

Smile, stay polite, and show confidence during your interview. Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake and a warm, upbeat tone. Even if you’re feeling nervous, remember—they likely don’t know about your housing situation. Show up as the capable, motivated candidate you are.

Highlight your strengths and past experience. Focus on the skills you already have and how they align with the job. Use every question to show your willingness to learn, your work ethic, and what you bring to the table.

• For example, in response to a question about your background, you might say: “I’ve worked in fast food, where I handled various roles like cooking, taking orders, and serving customers. Those skills would transfer well to this cashier position.”
• If a question stumps you, take a moment—say, “That’s a great question,” and breathe before you answer.

Don’t feel pressured to disclose your housing status. Unless you applied through a homeless support service, your living situation may never come up. If it doesn’t affect your ability to do the job or show up on time, it’s not something you need to mention—keep the focus on your qualifications and motivation.

• Even after getting hired, your personal circumstances are your own unless they directly impact your performance or availability.

• Landing a job while facing homelessness can seem overwhelming—but don’t lose hope. Stay determined, keep pushing forward, and remember that persistence can open doors.