Failed job seekers add to homeless in ND

February 5, 2012, 11:11 am | Business, Crime, Health

North Dakota has the lowest unemployment in the nation and a booming oil industry. But with its good fortune has come an unexpected problem: homelessness, as desperate job seekers flow into the state looking for work.

Officials say shelters are full statewide. Some homeless newcomers are living in cars, while others are bunking with acquaintances to avoid freezing.

Louis “Mac” McLeod is executive director of the Minot Area Homeless Coalition. He says people come to North Dakota without researching jobs or housing. They find out they aren’t qualified for the jobs available, or if they land work, they can’t find housing, which is scarce.

Michael Carbone of the North Dakota Coalition for Homeless People says half of North Dakota’s homeless are employed.

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