Peterson Sorenson
When you’re facing tough times, creativity becomes a lifeline. Many homeless individuals find ways to make money that most of us wouldn’t even think of. Here are ten unique gigs proving that resourcefulness can turn even the oddest opportunities into a paycheck.
Cleaning Public Statues or Memorials
You’ve seen those public statues covered in grime or graffiti, right? Some homeless folks offer to clean them up for a few bucks. Tourists and locals appreciate the effort, and it helps keep the community looking good.
Holding Spots in Lines
Do you hate waiting in long lines for events or movies? You can ask a homeless person to wait for you and pay them for it. They often hold spots to make some easy money, and you can also show up on time without getting bored in the line.
Creating “Pay-What-You-Want” Portraits
There are talented street artists who draw quick portraits in busy areas and let people pay whatever they think their art is worth. It’s a low-pressure way to make a few bucks and show off some good skills when you don’t have a permanent place for an exhibit.
Selling Scrap Metal for Art Projects
Artists love unusual materials. So, the ones with no roof over their heads roam around and collect unique scrap metal to sell to sculptors or DIY enthusiasts. Rusty gears, old pipes, or random metal bits—they know this trash can become an artist’s treasure.
Harvesting Cigarette Butts for Filters
It sounds weird, but those discarded cigarette butts have value. Upcyclers use those filters to develop recycled products. So, these people gather the buds and sell them to such factories. They turn this tiny waste into a small income while helping the planet.
Acting as “Human Billboards”
You must have seen a person holding a big sign for a pizza joint or wearing a costume to advertise a store. They aren’t always school students. It can be a homeless guy doing the job of a “human billboard.”
Participating in Mock Juries
Lawyers need practice before the real deal, so they run mock trials with stand-in jurors. With nothing else to do, they sign up for these trials and give their opinions and feedback. It pays, and they even get a front-row seat to see some courtroom drama.
Panhandling in Costume
Why ask for a change in regular clothes when you can do it as Batman or Mickey Mouse? Certain people make things hilarious by putting on fun or elaborate costumes to stand out and bring a smile to passersby—creative and more profitable.
Participating in Clinical Trials
Medical research centers often need volunteers for clinical trials. They reach out to people and pay them for their time. Many homeless folks take part in these studies because of the cash and the fact that they don’t need to do much—good for science, too!
Car Window Washing
At busy intersections or stoplights, some homeless individuals offer to wash car windows for tips. Armed with a squeegee and some soapy water, they clean windshields in seconds while drivers wait for the light to change. It’s a quick, direct way to earn cash.
