Studer Community Institute

Grant helps homeless get to work

March 30, 2015
/ Mollye Barrows
/ community-dashboard

James Heney has worked construction most of his 55 years. The work was steady until alcoholism cost him a long time job. Homeless for the last two years, Heney now survives on the streets, working odd jobs, sleeping wherever he can find shelter and panhandling for money, but he would prefer to be employed. "I've worked most of my life," said Heney. "I work odd jobs when I can find them, painting, repairs, lawns, but making it to work can be tough when you're feet are the only way to get there." Heney usually relies on a bicycle for transportation, but his was recently vandalized. That makes it even tougher for the recovering alcoholic to pursue work when the opportunities arise. His health isn't the best and even short distances can be an obstacle. "I'm only nine miles from downtown, where I sometimes work at a church when they have projects for me," said Heney, "but I need a bike to get there." He now has a new bike, thanks to a donation from EscaRosa Coalition on the Homeless and "90 Works," a nonprofit agency that helps the impoverished strive for self-sufficiency. The agencies are partnering to spend a $27,600 state grant on bikes for the homeless. "We are trying to identify 'worthy' homeless," explained John Johnson, executive director of escarole Coalition on the Homeless. "These bikes are for people who are trying to work." Johnson says they'll buy bicycles until the money runs out, between 30 and 50 of them, along with other equipment like helmets, locks, and bike pumps. Heney plans to register his brand new, $250 bicycle in case it's stolen, another hazard of living on the street. Without transportation he becomes even more isolated, and has difficulty taking advantage of work when it is offered. "I've been sober six days now," Heney said. "I've got work waiting for me and this bike is going to get me there, it means the world to me. It's a blessing." If you'd like to learn more about the bicycle donations or how you can help with the needs of the homeless, contact EscaRosa Coaltion on the Homeless, at 850-439-3009 or [email protected].

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Grant helps homeless get to work

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