Casual Shelter Support Worker

at  Open Arms Resource Centre Society

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Shelter Support Worker reports directly to the Shelter Manager.
The Shelter Support Worker will be a member of the shelter team that delivers the Shelter Program of Open Arms Resource Centre. The Shelter Program is a 24/7 service delivery model, which provides shelter, material supports, food supports, and housing securement support. The Program is a relational, supportive, community-based program. The Program is designed to support individuals facing homelessness in a variety of ways including social, emotional, educational, navigational, and occupational support. This role has foundations in advocacy and an understanding of the intersections of oppression and their roles in the development, maintenance, and recurrence of homelessness. The candidate will support program outcomes and adhere to all policies and procedures as outlined by Open Arms. The Shelter Support Worker will fundamentally model a belief and lifestyle in keeping with the vision and values of Open Arms Resource Centre. There will be a key element of community collaboration and case management cooperation. Supporting individuals to become securely housed is the key goal of the Shelter Support Worker, along with ensuring the operation of the shelter and navigating interpersonal interactions.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Shelter Support Worker will provide support to vulnerable adults in the following core service areas: shelter provision, healthy relationships, personal and life skill development, family connections, community connections, community support procurement, and action plan development and implementation.

SPECIFIC DUTIES INCLUDE:

Case Management

• Assist clients in contacting, navigating, and obtaining income security resources such as Income Assistance, Employment Insurance, Old Age Security, Disability Benefits, and/or employment.
• Assist clients in contacting, navigating, and obtaining secure housing. This may include support in contacting landlords/housing resources, filling out applications, attending viewings, securing moving services, and/or securing (not providing) ongoing housing supports.
• Assisting clients in navigating a variety of life circumstances including (not limited to): acute crisis, legal, correctional, medical, interpersonal/family conflict, child and family care, child protection, overdue bills, food support, and domestic violence. Clients come from a variety of backgrounds and the Shelter Support Worker, together with the Shelter Team, should be prepared to safely take on challenging client needs.
• Make referrals to other formal and informal supports.
• Efficiently document case management interactions.

Program Operation

• Support shelter guests in obtaining material supports within the shelter space. This includes food, clothing, personal care supplies, and/or harm reduction supplies.
• The Shelter Support Worker is responsible for ensuring that all guests follow the rules outlined to them upon arrival and intake. The Shelter Support Worker must adhere to the rules and policies of Open Arms Resource Centre at all times.
• The Shelter Support Worker is responsible for ensuring a clean and sanitized shelter environment. This includes ensuring clients complete the cleaning tasks required for their stay.

Training Opportunities:
Open Arms Resource Centre offers our employees paid training in Non-violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI), Mental Health First Aid, and Standard First Aid/CPR.
Regularly scheduled team meetings ensure open dialogue and communication between shelter staff and management.
A comprehensive benefits package is offered and cost-shared with employer.
Compensation: $20-$22/hour with $2/hour premium for night shifts (11pm-7am or 12am-8am)
Qualifications
- CPR Certification
- First Aid Certification