It is very difficult for most of the homeless to obtain any type of employment. Too many prospective employers want an address and home phone number which none have. So some of the choices available is working as a day laborer, usually through a company downtown, or looking for homes that they can do some yard work. Since most are not covered by any labor laws many are cheated out of their wages one way or another. At least, that is what I hear from most, although, I know there are two sides to every story.
Paul helps many out by hiring some to wash dishes at Streetside. This helps some to move up to a motel room, at least temporarily, but some will work and continue to stay on the street by choice. It is a real challenge to hire a homeless person because none have transportation which means providing a taxi service, which usually falls on one of the Streetside employees. Many don’t mind for a short period of time but it can be difficult if they are really busy. But if someone doesn’t provide that service, then you can be sure they can not be dependable even on good day.
Last Tuesday night a couple of the homeless had come up with a good idea to make some money. They decided to be street entertainers. According to them they had even acquired the proper permit from the city. So they started their enterprise by providing entertainment with the meal. They were very good, but at first the audience seemed to only focus on eating. But after playing a few songs, many did give them an ovation, although it was not standing.
So if you see them performing on the street maybe you could give them a couple of dollars. It is still work and they are providing a service that deserves some reward.
~Marc
