Albuquerque Mayor Hatches Plan Putting Homeless to Work in City, Paying Them For Their Efforts [VIDEO]

A homeless man holding a sign that read "Will Work" sparked a new idea for the city of Albuquerque.

They're called panhandlers. Those who stand on the street corners and ask for money. It's something that Albuquerque writes tickets for. However, it was one particular panhandler holding a sign that read "Will Work" that sparked an idea in the mind of Mayor Richard Berry.

Why not take them at their word?

As a way to help and not punish people in need, Berry launched a program that give the homeless an opportunity to work and receive compensation. The program is called "There's a Better Way." Two days a week, one of the employees of a local homeless services organization loads up his van with lunches and then drives around the city asking homeless if they want to work for the day.

Many jump at the opportunity.

Those who want to work, jump in the van and work a five-and-a-half hour shift. They perform tasks like cleaning up litter, clearing weeds, etc. to help beautify the city. They are giving back to the city, while being paid $9 an hour. They also receive lunch. After their shift they are driven to a local hospitality center where they can receive food, shelter, a hot shower and more if they choose.

According to Berry, it's an opportunity for them to give these people the dignity of a day's work and a day's pay. He believes it helps stabilize them, gives them self-confidence and helps them get back on their feet.

It's quite genius if you ask me.