More Than Work: Breaking Employment Barriers with First Step Staffing

What's more valuable than a paycheck? If you were to ask the clients at First Step Staffing, they’d probably say hope, dignity, and the chance to take control of their own lives.

I recently sat down with Amelia Nickerson, CEO of First Step Staffing, to discuss how they're helping people facing homelessness and financial instability find meaningful work. Their innovative model combines traditional staffing services with vital support systems like transportation, job coaching, and housing assistance to help the most vulnerable among us get back on their feet. The results speak for themselves: First Step has grown from helping 100 people annually in one location to serving 8,000 people across seven states. 

At 1-800-Flowers.com, we're proud to partner with First Step. Last holiday season, they helped staff our Atlanta distribution center with 350 dedicated workers—each one now closer to a more stable and hopeful future. In this episode of Celebrations Chatter, Amelia shares some of the inspiring stories of people who regained control of their futures all because they were given a chance.

Listen to the full episode with the links attached, and please #ShareItForward by leaving a review! Have you seen someone’s life transformed through employment? Share your story in the comments.