Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, LAHSA reported that two-thirds of adults cited economic hardship or loss of a job as what caused them to experience homelessness. Our work at Chrysalis centers around meeting people where they are, and this includes times when quickly reconnecting to the workforce could prevent someone from losing their home or experiencing greater economic instability.
Twenty-two years ago, Eddie walked into an automotive shop and was interviewed and hired as a sweeper on the spot. Over the course of two years, he worked his way up to managing the entire facility, a position he maintained for two decades.
After the owner decided to sell the company amid the pandemic, Eddie suddenly found himself unemployed and unsure of what to do next. It had been a long time since he had looked for work, and so much about hiring practices had changed.
“I was lost. It was very hard for me to find another job. They kept telling me to apply online, and I didn’t know how to do that.”
Through our remote program, Eddie was met with individualized support from his Employment Specialist and connected to assistance with his resume, coaching for interviews, professional attire, and a referral to a temporary job through the Staffing division of our employment social enterprise. This critical support, coupled with his diligence and dedication on the job, led to Eddie being hired full time by LA Family Housing, a homeless services organization focused on helping people transition into housing and out of poverty.
“[Getting hired] was the greatest feeling. If it wasn’t for Chrysalis, I don’t know what I would be doing. For anybody out there that wants to work, call Chrysalis!” Meet Eddie to learn more about his journey and what he looks forward to in the year ahead.