The Working Unhoused: A Reality That Needs Our Commitment

For the month of September, we turn our focus to an often misunderstood and overlooked aspect of homelessness: employment. The notion that all homeless folks need to do to get off the street or out of a shelter is just work hard and “get a job” and their problems will be solved is deeply ingrained in our society. Unfortunately, it’s rarely that simple.

Work, shelter, sleep, repeat. Step into the shoes of an employed person living in a shelter.

In New York City everyone has a legal “right to shelter.” This means that anyone who can show they are genuinely out of options with nowhere to stay must be provided a bed and some basic support by the Department of Homeless Services (DHS). The number of people sleeping in DHS shelters has exploded with more than 84,000 individuals recorded on September 12 (and this does NOT include thousands more who are being served and tracked by a different agency). Believe it or not, many of these folks are already employed in jobs that do not pay enough to cover the cost of a New York City apartment creating a dynamic where thousands of hardworking individuals find themselves signing into a shelter after a hard day of work. 

These dedicated individuals fill essential roles in our community, serving as security guards, bank tellers, home health aides, and more. Yet, the dignity they uphold at work contrasts sharply with the rules and expectations at the shelter that are in place to keep everyone safe but that often reinforce paternalistic narratives and minimize autonomy. 

The statistics are startling. A recent study shows that over half of those in homeless shelters were employed between 2011 and 2018. Yet, despite having a job, their average annual income was $8,169. Life-sustaining wages remain elusive for many. The widening gap between rent and earnings means that even a steady job may not provide enough to secure a home.

This situation calls for empathy, understanding, and above all, action. Together, we can break down misconceptions and rally for fair wages and affordable housing. By supporting initiatives that aim to bridge the divide between work and a stable home, we contribute to a society that truly values and rewards hard work.

Your involvement with City Relief is not just an act of charity; it's an investment in the lives of our fellow community members who are striving against all odds. Let's ensure that a hard day's work leads to a stable place to call home, providing hope and dignity to those who need it most.

Thank you for being part of this vital mission.

With gratitude,

Josiah Haken