Other than shelter, the thing that kids at Larkin Street need most is a safe way to support themselves. They must find immediate alternatives to the survival activities they engaged in for money on the streets, including harmful pursuits like prostitution and drug dealing. In response to this crucial need, Larkin Street offers HIRE UP, a collection of comprehensive education, employment, and career services. 

Day Labor is a component of HIRE UP aimed at young people who are able to work but have not yet completed education or training for permanent careers. Larkin Street provides housing and temporary jobs to Day Labor participants. They work in supervised day labor crews, cleaning Larkin Street facilities or other local businesses, washing graffiti off walls, moving furniture, stuffing envelopes, and completing other tasks for an hourly stipend. As an incentive to continue their education, youth in Day Labor are paid a higher hourly rate when they have completed their GED (high school equivalency).

Day Labor gives Larkin Street staff a valuable opportunity to get to know youth, assess their skills and abilities, and link them with the education and employment programs they need. The program also builds participants’ work ethic and gives them a sense of connection to the community. They learn important skills like following directions, teamwork, and accountability, which help them be successful as they enter the working world. Day Labor helps youth establish savings and gain job experience. Through their participation in the program, they prepare for the next phase of their new, safer, more stable lives.

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