Most of us would rather have a steady job and permanent roof over our heads than not. But homeless people do find ways to survive outside of more typical economic and social norms.
How do they do it? What sources of income do the homeless turn to, and how much do they earn?
1. Busking
Street performers range from the reputable (such as skilled singers and other artists) to the irritating or disappointing. More unique buskers perform impressive or unusual skills, such as juggling while riding a unicycle.
Some buskers earn every dollar they collect through talent, while others are something akin to panhandlers. At its best, busking achieves a trade of value, offering entertainment in exchange for a donation.
2. Day Labor
Some employers need extra help, and don’t necessarily require skilled labor.
For example, contractors renovating or constructing a building may need some extra pairs of hands to lift heavy objects or shuttle materials from one end of the site to another. So they pick up some day laborers congregating at a known site where employers can find them.
The pay isn’t necessarily bad, either. According to ZipRecruiter, the average day laborer earns about $18 hourly.
3. Collecting Recyclables
Not every jurisdiction pays for recycling collection, but some do.
If you earn five to ten cents per can or bottle, and collect a few hundred in a morning, you could walk away with $20-50. It doesn’t pay as well as day labor, but you spend the time outside, working at your own pace, with no one shouting orders at you.
Plus, you can feel good about the environmental impact of your work.
4. Online Odd Jobs & Surveys
In today’s world, some homeless people have smartphones. That gives them access to certain side hustles.
Online platforms like Toloka pay you small amounts to do tiny tasks. Alternatively, you could earn modest amounts from online survey companies.
5. Academic or Medical Studies
Some universities pay participants in psychological, sociological, or medical studies.
The pay varies based on the time required and the potential risk involved. You may earn $20 for an hour of filling out a psychological survey questionnaire, or $2,000 for a medical study with certain potential risks.
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Source: 5 Ways the Homeless Make Money That Will Surprise You
