Solutions at Work

CONTACT:

PO 391349
Cambridge, MA 02139
617-492-0300
www.solutionsatwork.org

Macy Delong, Executive Director

DESCRIPTION:

Solutions at Work is another example of an agency founded and operated by those it serves. "The problem we all faced during the winter of 1988-89, when we first came together, was that as homeless people we knew better than anyone what our needs were. We had energy and good ideas. We realized the only way to be heard and to gain respect was to start something ourselves."

Solutions has developed three programs that provide job training, transitional employment, and provision of services: the Cambridge Furniture Bank which recycles donated furniture to help families gaining homes; the Children's Clothing Exchange, which provides clothes through a unique bartering system where applicable; and Moving Up, a low-cost moving service for low-income elderly and others who need special help in moving. Solutions has helped thousands of families by: giving them free furniture, household items and clothing; helping them relocate; and developing personal, job and leadership skills. Transitional employment gives homeless workers the opportunity to confront the reasons that they have been unable to find or retain work, and to develop job histories and skills that strengthen job applicatitons. Solutions itself has employed 145 of the 600 individuals trained, and transitioned 10 of those into regular full-time jobs.

Solutions still needs to grow to meet the demand for its services. Please help.

(1997: HUMAN SERVICES: Well-Being)