Using day laborers

Mar 25, 2026 at 1:37pm

Has anyone done that?  I’d like to give money to folks that need it and I can use 2 - 3 guys for a one day project.  

Am I missing any ethical concerns?

If not, does anyone know where I can find some and what they’re usually paid?

Thanks in advance.  

In past years, I used to see day laborers hanging out on Springfield Ave in Irvington near the Taco Bell/Dollar General. There is a small park there.  

I don't have current info.


Home Depot parking lot in Newark 


Summit, corner of Ashwood and Park Avenues.

Go on Broad Street and turn onto Ashwood. Go one block.


Some years ago we had our first small project that I hired foreign (Spanish speaking)workers for. I was rather opposed to doing this, BUT we couldn't anyone to hire.  Our project was small less than hour for 2 men.  So we went to a place where there was a crowd of guys looking for any work.  Wife is fluent enough in Spanish that she translated.

As for payment…I determined  what the job was worth to us and offered that much.  Divided it among the workers.  For example: we said we needed 2 guys for up to 2 hours; $30 per guy.   PLEASE don’t super low ball these guys.  BE FAIR.

BTW, it’s fairly common these days to hear that it’s more work than they anticipated… can you pay more?  I don’t.  I was reasonable when i made my offer.



Apollo_T said:

Some years ago we had our first small project that I hired foreign (Spanish speaking)workers for. I was rather opposed to doing this, BUT we couldn't anyone to hire.  Our project was small less than hour for 2 men.  So we went to a place where there was a crowd of guys looking for any work.  Wife is fluent enough in Spanish that she translated.

As for payment…I determined  what the job was worth to us and offered that much.  Divided it among the workers.  For example: we said we needed 2 guys for up to 2 hours; $30 per guy.   PLEASE don’t super low ball these guys.  BE FAIR.

BTW, it’s fairly common these days to hear that it’s more work than they anticipated… can you pay more?  I don’t.  I was reasonable when i made my offer.

I’m FAR more likely to overpay!


jeffl said:

I’m FAR more likely to overpay!

usually $25 per hour is good for laborers. Lunch is always welcomed too!



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