Job Description

Program Overview:

Stepping Stone is a community-based agency that believes in the Housing First philosophies and practices. We strive to improve the quality of life for people who are struggling with chronic homelessness, significant mental health issues and substance misuse. Our shelter program provides individuals a place to stay and staff support 24/7, along with wrap-around health care services on site to help people experiencing homelessness transition to housing and successfully stay housed.

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Program Supervisor, the Housing Stability Worker will assist people that are homeless in navigating the shelter program as well as support individuals at risk of homelessness to remain housed. They will take the lead role in ensuring that all people are provided with adequate and appropriate support that will address the complex factors contributing to their history of unstable housing or homelessness.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

Post-secondary degree or diploma in human services/human sciences, or related field. Experience of working with those who have experienced mental health challenges, addictions and trauma Respectful, supportive and engaging approach to persons with physical disabilities, addictions, mental health and other life challenges Demonstrated knowledge, skills and experience working with community organizations as well as an understanding of issues related to poverty and homelessness Strong interpersonal and resilience skills Must have exemplary communication, conflict management, organization and problem solving skills Ability to work professionally as a team member with staff, participants and community members Experience working within a non-profit and/or social services environment preferred Ability to work sensitively and effectively with people from various abilities, life situations and cultural backgrounds Ability to carry and operate cleaning equipment up to 50 pounds Experience using a Data Management System (i.e. HIFIS) and tools (i.e. VI-SPDAT) Current First Aid / CPR certification, Naloxone training and Vulnerable Sector Police Check or willingness to obtain at hiring

Overview of Duties and Responsibilities:

Actively engage individuals/families in securing independent housing, including accompaniment to unit viewings, assistance with unit rental application process including last month's rent deposits, securing income assistance, ensuring rent supplements can be directly deposited and arranging for furnishings and household items. Develop individualized care plans in partnership with individuals/families and their support team While individuals/family you are supporting are in our shelter programs you willingly support the Lifeskills Workers by creating plans for unit upkeep and providing hands on support with housekeeping and general tidiness. Help clients access community resources, benefits, and mental/physical health care Advocate on behalf of the individuals/families to ensure appropriate service delivery Conduct screening and assessment to determine the appropriate wraparound services; ensuring the organization and delivery of these services is established by liaising and collaborating on a regular basis with the Care Coordinator Collaborate with individuals/families in the formulation of a housing and health plan that is reviewed and modified with the individual/family on a regular basis and provide crisis intervention when necessary Maintain accurate, timely documentation and data entry into client records within HIFIS and/or Caseworks Assist in developing a plan for financial literacy which would include budgeting, rental insurance and rent payment as well as ensuring food security is established Support individuals/families at appointments (e.g. Food Bank, Ontario Works, medical, psychiatric, counseling etc.) Encourage and support participants in becoming actively engaged in their community through social activities, volunteering and attending community events Take part in case conferencing tables to advocate for individuals/families, contributing recommendations for case management in collaboration with the Care Coordinator Support clients for 1 year after housing placement to support with guest management, life skills, food security and overall housing retention needs Conduct in unit visits and wellness checks in accordance with program policies and provide ongoing case management services using a strength-based approach Track all active evictions and support individuals/families facing eviction in legal clinic or LTB matters as required. Help with a re-housing plan if needed. Maintain excellent documentation on each case and each contact with the participant and using this documentation to evaluate project outcomes, goals and progress on a regular basis Participate in regular supervision, team meetings, and trainings Be willing to support Lifeskill Workers in leading with unit support by creating plans for unit upkeep and providing hands on support with housekeeping and general tidiness. take part in team meetings to enhance program delivery

Working Environment / Schedule:

Flexibility to work evenings and weekends when required Thirty-five (35) hours per week, with the hours being flexible to the needs of clients. This position includes staff on-call responsibilities on a rotational basis as needed. Work with clients and staff in the community and directly on the shelter and PSH sites Exposed to stress due to dealing with clients in difficult personal circumstances

Compensation and Benefits:

$28.67 / hour starting wage 2 weeks vacation / year (on an accrual basis) 7 sick days / year (on an accrual basis) $100 / month cell phone reimbursement & $100 / month gas allowance Extended Health & Dental benefit package available after (3) months of employment An environment that supports continuous learning
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $28.67 per hour

Expected hours: 35 per week

Benefits:

Casual dress Dental care Employee assistance program Extended health care Life insurance Mileage reimbursement Paid time off RRSP match Vision care
Work Location: In person