POSITION: HOUSING ACCESS WORKER

ABOUT THE INITIATIVE:

The transitional housing initiative operating at 106 Airport Road marks a significant step forward in addressing homelessness and housing instability in our community. This innovative project, rooted in collaborative efforts and insights from successful models from across Canada, is poised to transform our shelter system in St. John's while prioritizing the integration of housing and health services to assist our most vulnerable neighbors.

The initiative is intended to be a supportive place for individuals who need additional health and housing support to be successful in their housing journey.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

The Housing Access Worker, under the EHSJ Manager of Housing Outreach and Access's supervision, collaborates with the Transitional Housing team at 106 Airport Road. This role involves balancing individual housing support with the broader goal of ending homelessness in St. John's, using a person- centered approach to systems-level work. Specifically, this role will focus on working with residents ready to transition to permanent housing from the transitional site, including completion of required documentation and identifying potential housing solutions.

The Housing Access Worker has experience in community and/or public sector work, and a keen interest in how a well-designed system leads to better outcomes for individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The ideal candidate will enjoy the opportunities and challenges of supporting a purpose- built organization working to make St. John's the next community in Canada to end homelessness.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Housing Access Worker will play a critical role in supporting individuals through their housing journey in finding and securing safe, affordable, and long-term housing. They will navigate existing resources and programs efficiently and possess excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills. They are comfortable working with and responding to individuals in crisis, including those who may be using substances. The Housing Access worker is responsible for the day-to-day implementation of:

Housing Assistance:

• Assist residents in identifying suitable housing options, including private rentals, social housing, and supportive housing.
• Support residents in completing housing applications, preparing for housing interviews, and securing necessary documentation.
• Collaborate with landlords, property managers, and housing providers to facilitate successful housing placements.
• Provide transportation for potential viewings
• Assist residents throughout the housing process.

Support and Advocacy:

• Build trusting relationships with residents to understand their housing needs and preferences.
• Conduct assessments to identify barriers to housing and develop individualized transition plans.
• Provide ongoing support and advocacy throughout the housing search and application process.
• Advocate on behalf of residents to access housing subsidies, financial assistance, and other support services.
• Maintain knowledge of community and public systems resources available for people experiencing homelessness.
• Develop and implement individualized housing support plans tailored to clients' needs.
• Advocate for clients with landlords, social services, and community agencies to ensure housing stability.
• Provide crisis intervention and problem-solving support.
• Mediate landlord-tenant disputes to help clients maintain housing.
• Support clients in integrating into their communities and developing independent living skills.

Communication and Collaboration:

• Communicate effectively with residents and external agencies.
• Foster collaborative relationships with community organizations, service providers, and government agencies.
• Ensure policies and procedures are followed and that forms are completed properly.
• Track data and complete reports as required.
• Build trusting relationships with clients and provide ongoing emotional and practical support.
• Work collaboratively with case managers, support workers, and community organizations to coordinate services.
• Connect clients to community supports such as food banks, healthcare, and education programs.

Practical Supports

• Educate clients on budgeting, bill payments, and financial literacy to promote financial independence.
• Provide guidance on household maintenance, grocery shopping, and home safety.

Professional Conduct:

• Demonstrate respect, cultural competence, and knowledge of trauma-informed care in interactions with residents, staff, volunteers, and collaborative partners.
• Maintain resident confidentiality and privacy.
• Participate in team meetings, training, and professional development to stay informed on best practices.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

Applicants must have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or diploma in human services, healthcare, community planning, administration or social services-related program

Experience:

• Ideally the candidate will have a minimum of 2 years' experience in the nonprofit social services sector or government environment, including frontline experience
• Any equivalent combination of education, training and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and skills, may be considered.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Experience working with diverse populations
• Commitment to and understanding of how to interact with personal information, including data privacy and confidentiality
• Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritize responsibilities and deadlines
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong understanding of housing resources, tenant rights, and the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team
• Proficiency in MS Office suite, particularly Outlook, Excel, and Word
• Valid driver's license and use of own vehicle are required
• All applicants MUST be able to provide a current Royal Newfoundland Constabulary Criminal Record Screening Certificate and Vulnerable Sector Check

HOW TO APPLY:

This position provides competitive salary and benefits plan, including health, dental, and RRSP contributions. Salary is commensurate with experience and will start at $55,000 per year.

Applicants should send a resume and cover letter outlining how they meet the specific requirements of the position to Vanessa Horlick at [email protected] by March 2nd , 2024

For more information about End Homelessness St. John's, please visit our website at wecanendit.com.

End Homelessness St. John's is an equal opportunity employer.

While we appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.