I just got a job, though it pays minimum wage. I'll be looking for alternative ways of making money as well, such as online surveys, video taping events, perhaps another part time job... who knows.
Are there any companies that don't have very stringent hiring policies? The company I work at, Funworks, is just such a company. Almost anyone can get hired there, and we currently have in the range of 80 employees. Plus, I know the general manager very well, so it was easy for me. If there's anyplace like that where you live, don't hesitate: apply now! You won't regret it, like I think I might! (I waited 2 years to get a job since I was eligible; I am realizing that I should have applied here first and looked for another job afterward.)