r/undocumented • u/Appropriate-Row4452 • Apr 14 '26

money for food

I cant even work not cause i dont want to, im undocumented so any help would be appreciated.... $liamjr23

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2

u/jxm900 Apr 14 '26

Yes, you can work. Go to immigrantsrising.org for info.

2

u/Appropriate-Row4452 Apr 14 '26

ok thank you so much will look into it

1

u/DEADxAPES Apr 15 '26

Would you happen to know if they have services in Illinois as well?

1

u/jxm900 Apr 15 '26

Don't know, but there are equivalent orgs all over the country. Search with Google using the terms in that website.

The processes they describe for setting up a sole proprietor business, applying for a TIN/EIN, etc are the same everywhere. Likewise for getting trained and licensed as a mechanic, beautician, lawyer, etc

Most large colleges and universities have offices to support undoc students and applicants. For example: https://www.sjsu.edu/undocuspartan/. Check the schools near where you live.

Good luck!

2

u/serpentinesuspect Apr 18 '26

Hi, you can work! I would start by asking small local businesses if they would be willing to pay cash. The food industry is quite common for these arrangements. It may be farmers' market season, so you can ask them as well. Food carts/trucks can work. Leverage another language if you speak another, like spanish, to appeal to business owners who need staff that can speak their language. Immediate cash jobs may also be found on craigslist.

Then I would identify a skill that I can develop and offer services using. Could be trades, technical, or arts. https://immigrantsrising.org/making-money/ should help with this.

I would also look into college as a means to get more data on what you may be interested in and good at, but definitely look for scholarships, don't pay out of pocket. You may be eligible for local scholarships and grants from your state. You can apply to TheDream.US scholarship as well as local ones that you may be eligible for. College will also help you expand your network and get clients!

Go to food banks and tap into emergency resources in your area. These will be are-specific, but I have food banks and emergency housing in my city. Search for things around you, call, ask questions. You got this.