What are some positions that allow low skilled people to earn a living wage despite the recession?

I have been hit hard by the recession. I live on the North East Atlantic coastal region of the US. I had been working full time in the social service field for over seven years but now I can’t find a job that pays a livable wage. By livable I mean earning a wage that keeps you out of the ghetto, allows you to drive a decent economical car, and earning a wage that helps you keep yourself fed and clothed. The government has cut funding to the not-for-profit agencies that have these positions. In addition, the government has tightened up on regulations with in these industries causing things to be chaotic and ineffective with in these industries. I am trying to find another job in another field that I will allow me to finish a masters degree. I have some educational benefits because I was in the US Army but I still need to work full time. I am good at repairing anything things such as machinery and computers but I don’t have a ton of experience. I also don’t have any good references that can bring me into these industries. What can I do to escape the straggle hold of the recession? The recession is trying to kill my hopes and dreams so I can be left poor and penniless. I need HELP!!! Can someone help me so I can redirect myself. I want to finish my masters so I can find a career. I need an answer.