We are often asked:
Where are you located?
Our new home is 748 Mercy St., Mountain View, CA 94041 (cross street is Hope -- how about that?). The phone number remains 650-903-4102. Our job center and business office are located at the Trinity United Methodist Church facility.
How long have you been around?
We have been serving the community since 1996.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I hire someone?
Call first or just come by; no appointment is needed. We will provide a worker who meets your specific job needs and who will be ready to go to work.
What are your hours?
We are open Monday-Saturday, 7am-2pm. If you need someone for after hours or a Sunday, we can arrange that for you in advance.
I need someone who speaks some English.
Most of our workers speak Spanish as their native language. All workers participate in daily ESL classes at the Center. Most workers understand quite a bit of English. Some speak English well and some are still learning, so please talk slowly and clearly. We can translate your instructions and provide you with someone who understands exactly what work you need done.
How much should I pay?
Our laborers earn $10 to $15 per hour. Specialty skills command higher pay. You may pay a bonus if the work is done well. The actual wage is determined when the job application is completed, so there is a clear understanding prior to leaving the Center. Many of our employers call to say how pleased they were with their worker(s), and are repeat customers. If you have a good experience, please share your experience and recommend us to your family and friends.
Are your workers qualified?
We register the workers every day as they enter; priority is given to those registering first. The workers come to the Center seeking a safe place, looking for assistance with language and culture, and seeking employment with dignity. We provide job matching as a community resource, but we are not an employment agency. We have not done background checks.
Am I liable if a worker is injured while working at my residence?
Homeowners insurance covers this so long as the worker has not worked for you more than 3 days in a row.
Could I get in any trouble for using a worker who does not have proper documentation?
Information about employers who hire workers at the Center of employers is private and will never be shared with any government agency.
Do I need to report the wages I pay for tax purposes?
Employers who hire workers for 3 days or less do not need to report wages or pay taxes.
What about transportation?
Although a few workers have cars and/or bicycles, you should plan to take the workers with you and then return them to the Center. Many live in the neighborhood surrounding the Worker Center; others might take public transportation home.
Any other suggestions?
Most workers will not have food or drink with them. Please offer them something to eat and drink during the workday; they will appreciate it. Also, show them a restroom they can use.
