Thompson said the screening process isn’t meant to keep people out but rather to prepare them for a job. For example, they may need help getting identification, he said.

Participants will be subject to a background check and E-Verify.

The program is funded with $50,000 each from the City of Omaha and the Salvation Army. Stothert plans to include funding for the program in next year’s budget, too.

The $100,000 will help pay for a program manager (roughly $60,000, including benefits), participant wages (about $20,000) and administrative and other costs.

There were an estimated 1,389 homeless people in Omaha and Council Bluffs as of January 2017, according to data by the Metro Area Continuum of Care for the Homeless. About 300 people were classified as chronically homeless.

When participants aren’t working, they will receive help and access to training and services, such as counseling. Thompson said those running the program hope to teach participants skills that help them find long-term employment.

City Parks Director Brook Bench said a successful participant could end up with a part- or full-time job with the city. And workers could help other city departments as the program grows.