More than 80% of the homeless in Santa Clara County are unemployed with little access to job-training, transportation and support. Understanding that job creation can lead the way to permanent housing, Supervisor Simitian encouraged a business outreach and development program through the nonprofit, Downtown Streets Team. Two parts make up the program: engaging the homeless in work projects that retool skills and work habits as needed; and, developing relationships with local employers to identify job-placement opportunities for trainees.
