If he is looking for something that could end up being temporary, but still a job for the time being and wants work in a back room, he could look around at department stores or places like Target. I worked in a large clothing department store and we had people that worked in the back and simply brought boxes into the ware house off trucks, etc. He could also look into mall security type positions. These suggestions probably won't turn into a job he'll love or want to stay at forever, but if him getting a job -- any job at this point -- means a positive impact on your relationship, he might be willing to take them for that reason, plus the experience and references while he looks for something he's more interested in. Also, retail related jobs are probably going to be picking up in the next month or two because of the summer.

I'm glad you guys were able to discuss things and are starting to build a plan for the future to make things work.

Good luck!
Ro