By Emma Mirnics
Omaha World-Herald Explorer
A chilly wind whistled through the streets of Omaha’s Old Market. Birds chirped from perches
in trees and rooftops, promising the coming of spring. The breeze carried a faint smell of fresh pizza from Zio’s restaurant just feet away. However, this unique atmosphere left one young man discouraged.
Edmundo Encinas has worked construction jobs for most of his life in Sioux City and Omaha, but on this Tuesday evening he found himself sitting on the street, holding a sign that said, “Homeless, anything helps.” Shifting on the cold ground, Encinas recounted his misfortunes describing how he caught frostbite that hindered the use of his foot while in Sioux City about a month ago. He then proceeded to describe a degenerative nerve disease beginning in his left arm, rendering it insufficient for the construction jobs he usually works. Struggling to reach for his wallet, Encinas complained about his hand getting worse. He continued his story, recalling that he cannot apply for other jobs because his birth certificate and social security were also stolen in Sioux City. Encinas is well-educated, but without documentation, finding work has been a challenge for him. All he had left was his work ID for the construction company that terminated his employment.
As for his family, although Encinas has a wife, he is prohibited from going home due to an ongoing battle with Child Protective Services. With regards to his current predicament on the streets, Encinas said, “It’s embarrassing, but what can I do?” Although he hopes to escape this situation soon, until something changes Encinas remains concerned about his future.
Exploring Program 