Masters: Preventing and overcoming homelessness in Phoenix through Workforce Development

Homelessness is a complex issue with deep-rooted causes, particularly in a rapidly growing city like Phoenix, where rising housing prices and widening economic disparities exacerbate the problem.

For individuals on the financial brink, losing a job or facing personal trauma can lead to homelessness almost overnight. As someone who has experienced the challenges of being unhoused, I understand how critical a steady job can be in rebuilding lives.

At St. Joseph the Worker, we believe that tackling homelessness requires more than just temporary shelter. To create lasting change, we must address the root causes and provide individuals with the tools needed to rebuild their lives. One of the most powerful tools for achieving this? Stable employment.

The unique challenges in Phoenix

Phoenix’s unhoused population faces numerous barriers to regaining stability. Affordable housing is scarce, and access to resources like transportation and job opportunities can be challenging. Many people are caught in a cycle of underemployment or long-term unemployment, where the lack of stable income makes securing housing, food and other necessities nearly impossible. The city’s harsh desert climate only compounds these challenges, making day-to-day survival that much harder.

While these obstacles may seem overwhelming, they are not insurmountable. With the right support and comprehensive services focused on employment, individuals can break free from the cycle of poverty and housing insecurity.

How SJW supports homelessness prevention

At SJW, our mission centers around workforce development as a strategy for combating homelessness. Two key programs, Employment Without Barriers and Workforce Villages , are designed to provide individuals with the resources and stability they need to secure long-term employment and housing.

Employment Without Barriers supports individuals facing significant job market challenges, including educational gaps, incarceration history and long employment breaks. We provide resume building, interview preparation, job search assistance, transportation help and professional attire. Our partnerships with employers ensure jobs pay at least $17 an hour with benefits. Last year, SJW helped over 7,000 individuals, connecting 4,500 to stable employment.

Once employed, our Workforce Villages program offers 90 days of transitional housing for those in full-time roles, fostering financial independence in a safe environment. On average, participants save 70% of their income — approximately $5,000—by the end of the program, with 85% of graduates securing housing and financial stability.

The transformative impact of employment

Employment offers far more than just a paycheck. It provides individuals with dignity, stability and a renewed sense of hope. With a stable job, people can pay rent, buy groceries and contribute to their community. They regain control over their lives and break the cycle of poverty, often transforming the futures of their families as well.

One of our clients, Maurice , faced significant barriers due to his justice-impacted background. After entering the Workforce Villages program, he secured a full-time job at a shelter, saved $4,800 and eventually became a shelter supervisor with his own apartment. His story is a testament to how meaningful employment can change lives.

Breaking the cycle of homelessness

We can effectively address homelessness through targeted programs like those at SJW. One notable initiative is the Realization Project , launched in 2020 by the Economic Roundtable. This rapid re-employment program utilizes predictive screening tools to identify workers at high risk of persistent homelessness, aiming to prevent chronic homelessness proactively. According to the report , 95% of participants maintained stable housing after completing the program, and their employment rate increased by 41%.

Additionally, the average cost of these programs per participant is comparable to one year of public costs for individuals who did not receive assistance. This illustrates how the right support can help individuals reclaim their independence and break free from the cycle of poverty and reliance on government aid. It also alleviates a significant financial burden at both the local and federal levels.

Multifaceted approach required

Addressing homelessness in Phoenix requires a multifaceted approach that extends beyond simply providing shelter. It necessitates a deep understanding of the complex interplay between economic factors, personal circumstances and systemic barriers individuals encounter.

Looking ahead, advocating for systemic changes is essential to enhance opportunities for those experiencing homelessness. By collaborating and implementing the recommendations outlined in recent reports, we can develop a robust support system that tackles the root causes of homelessness. Together, we have the power to break the cycle of homelessness and build a stronger, more resilient community for everyone.

Editor’s note: Carrie Masters is CEO of St. Joseph the Worker (SJW) , a Phoenix-based nonprofit. Appointed in early 2023, she is the first female CEO in SJW's 35-year history. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org .