Housing Support Worker

Job Overview:
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Housing Support Worker to join our team. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Housing Support Workeris responsible for maintaining a coordinated caseload within the County of Dufferin to individuals who are currently un-housed or are facing homelessness. This position works closely in partnership with other service providers in order to make the necessary connections to services and resources within the community for their clients. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

Responsibilities:
- Ensure clients are fully informed of Housing Support Workers role, Coordinated Access mission and philosophy

- To assist with goal planning, a full SPDAT assessment to be completed according to the determined timeline. This will aid in identifying areas so case management may be prioritized

- Meet with clients on a weekly basis for an hour at minimum:

· Meetings with sheltered clients will take place in the client’s unit or transitional unit unless extenuating circumstances prevent the HSW from doing so. Extenuating circumstances must be mutually agreed upon by the project and the County of Dufferin.

· Home visits are a critical component of the program as they allow the HSW to build rapport with the individual while being able to assess their ability to properly maintain the unit.

· Meetings with unsheltered clients will be face to face in a mutual agreeable location, preferably in the community

- Assist clients with applications for Housing Access Dufferin, Housing Stability Program, Market Rental Units, Coordinated Access Transitional Housing (CATH) and Housing Allowances and make appropriate referrals to other support agencies as needed

- Ensure client is document ready including but not limited to identification, tax filing, income verification and bank verification

- Attend signing of leases, transitional housing agreements and/or Housing Allowance agreements

- Assist clients to set up pay direct for rent or utilities and to access program such as Ontario Electricity Support Program if relevant.

- Assist clients to move in or out of transitional or permanent units

- Assist clients in securing items and funding to ensure the unit is ready and set up for a successful move in:

· Must be in attendance on move in day

· A follow-up visit at the unit will be completed within 48 hours or the next business day

· Maintain housing including support with activities of daily living

- Complete monthly unit inspections of housed clients on the current caseload, in partnership with the Landlord Liaison

- Assess the effectiveness of services based on client’s attainment of personal objectives and feedback

- Develop and maintain relationships with community agencies to support clients move into suitable and sustainable long-term housing units

- Collaborate with Landlord Liaison regarding late payments, damage, or lease violations; consult with legal services staff regarding actions to prevent evictions

- Interpret and apply Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), Housing Services Act (HSA), accompanying Regulations and local policies and procedures

- Establish professional working relationships with the Coordinated Access Table (CAT) and the Landlord Liaison to appropriately assist in housing identified clients

- Participate and contribution to the work of the CAT

- Participate fully and constructively in staff meetings and in-service training

- Act as a positive role model for Choices Shelter and Support Services, and the CAT when dealing with clients and the public

Qualifications:
· Post-secondary education in Social Work, Social Services, Health Services, or equivalent - 3+ years Supporting at risk youth and/or the homeless population - Strong knowledge of Housing First Principles - Demonstrated ability to participate an inclusive workplace through an EDI lens where everyone feels welcome. - A vehicle, valid driver’s license, and adequate insurance coverage is required - Must be able to produce a Vulnerable Sector Screening police records check (Level 3)
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Compassionate, patient, and understanding nature.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and respect for individuals' privacy.

Please note that this position may require occasional evening or weekend shifts based on the needs of the individuals being supported.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and possess the necessary qualifications, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding opportunity.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: $28.67 per hour

Expected hours: 37.5 per week

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Dental care
• Extended health care
• On-site parking
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• First Aid Certification (preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Orangeville, ON L9W 1V5

Application deadline: 2024-03-27
Expected start date: 2024-04-01