Try to highlight your skills instead of dates of work if you have gaps in your work history. Newspaper want ads are only one source of jobs. There are better ways to get a new job . Tell friends what type of work you would like. Check out companies that may be hiring in your field and write to them.
Every state has a job service agency that can provide job leads as well as employment testing.
Most cities, states, counties, and the federal government have civil service job listings . You can have these mailed right to your home for a small fee. The Internet is also an important source of information for job listings. Some agencies offer training. Some offer benefits, including health insurance.