The Same Day Work and Pay (SDWP) Program originated in 2019 by Mural Arts to address the dangers of panhandling by individuals experiencing economic insecurity and homelessness. The model’s success led the City of Philadelphia and other non-profit organizations to create similar work opportunities. The program provides low to no-barrier work opportunities for people experiencing economic insecurity, mental and behavioral health challenges, and/or homelessness. The initiative offers supportive resources and serves as an on-ramp to discovering pathways.  SDWP participants work a daily shift of about 3.5 hours and get paid between $50 and $100. The kind of work performed varies based on the employer partner.

The Office of Community Empowerment and Opportunity serves as the backbone agency for the programs in alignment with its focus on racial equity and economic mobility. Barriers to employment disproportionately impact people of color, individuals experiencing housing instability, and those who were formerly incarcerated.

Mural Arts: Color Me Back

  • Program details: Shift length minimum is 3.5 hours. $50 per shift.
  • Work description: Painting public murals and art projects.
  • Eligibility criteria: Must be at least 18 years old and reside in the Philadelphia area
  • How to apply: Visit https://bit.ly/colormeback

Community Life Improvement Program (CLIP), City of Philadelphia

  • Program details: Shift length minimum is 3.5 hours. $50 per shift.
  • Work description: Community beautification and cleanup
  • Eligibility criteria: Must be at least 18 years old and reside in the Philadelphia area
  • How to apply: Temporarily not accepting applications.

Pennsylvania Horticultural Society

  • Program details: Shift length minimum is 4.5 hours. $100 per shift.
  • Work description: Landscaping, and community cleanup
  • Eligibility: Must be at least 18 years old, live in the Philadelphia area, and have ID, City ID, or working papers. There are designated youth days for youth one day during the week and on some weekends. Youth must provide a school ID or an approved work schedule.
  • How to apply: Visit https://bit.ly/PHSworkphilly or email SDWP@Pennhort.org

For more information related to workforce training programs and job skills training/development, follow the links below.

For assistance or inquiries about the Same Day Work and Pay Program, email at ceo.sdwp@phila.gov.