Housing-Focused Caseworker – Temp FT – St. Catharines

Watch inspiring stories from some of those who have been helped through The Salvation Army’s programs:

The Salvation Army Support

Open House: Poverty isn’t always easy to see

This is a temporary, full-time contract position based upon 40 hours per week.  The work schedule is determined in consultation with your supervisor and may vary according to requirements of responsibility.

Normal hours of operation are Monday to Friday 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and includes a ½ hour unpaid meal break where applicable.  Normal location of work is at The Salvation Army St. Catharines Booth Centre, 184 Church Street, St. Catharines, Ontario L2R 3E7.

Interested applicants must respond in writing with a cover letter and resume.

We thank all applicants, however, only those candidates to be interviewed will be contacted.

• Assist clients with housing searches, preparation of clients for viewings, and assist in the contact with landlords.
• Provide encouragement to clients and problem solve issues regarding housing
• If needed, transport clients to viewings and assisting them with the discussions with the landlords
• Keep an ongoing and updated list of apartments for rent by utilizing various websites
• Help clients by going through resource material in preparation for renting
• Be the point of contact for new attendees of the Hostel to assist with diversion if possible
• Keep accurate statistics specifically for this pilot project
• Develop and implement case management of assigned clients; assist clients in establishing goals, monitoring progress, and preparing discharge plans.
• Assist clients with resume preparation and job searches.
• Assist in the preparation & facilitation of life skills classes and instruction for clients.
• Provide recreation and community development for clients.
• Preform assessments, preliminary goal setting, identifies housing barriers, immediate and ongoing needs.
• Perform administrative duties, such as compiling and maintaining accurate case files and appropriate documentation related to clients and initiates and any new documentation; complete all reports required by the funder and The Salvation Army including HIFIS.
• Maintain caseload with regularly scheduled sessions and record keeping on all contacts and sessions as required by policy and procedures.
• Perform social histories to gather information and identify problems; formulate case plans to help clients meet their needs; perform discharge procedures for clients as assigned.
• Monitor appropriate behavior; intervene in crisis situations, provide emotional support and advocacy as required.
• Ensure appropriate communication of relevant concerns being mindful of referral-based guidelines and confidentiality
• Maintain confidentiality of all client records, documenting all relevant information and update logs and client files regularly.
• Encourage clients in the maintenance of good personal hygiene, housekeeping, and general life skills.
• Work cooperatively with the community partners and complete necessary documentation as required.
• Enforce program rules and expectations on a consistent basis with clients.
• Network with Salvation Army, government, and community social service providers to coordinate resources for the benefit of clients and programs.
• Engage in the development of inter-personal relationships that promote dignity and respect.
• Perform required scheduled check-ins of clients, unit visits and room inspections.
• May liaise with police, funders, court personnel, community agencies, families, and other staff members.
• Coordinate care services help clients identify and obtain resources.
• Complete other duties as required.

• College Diploma in Social Services/Corrections/Community and Justice Services and / or combination of education and life related experience in working with marginalized individuals.
• Completion of Non-Violence Crisis Intervention Training or willingness to obtain.
• Current First Aid and CPR or willingness to obtain.
• Training in Naloxone administration and Mental Health First Aid would be assets.
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Self -motivated and disciplined
• Knowledge of issues facing persons experiencing housing crisis
• Strong computer skills including a working knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Valid Ontario Class “G” Driver’s license and current copy of driver’s abstract that is satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion, is required.
• Provide an original copy of a Background Check with vulnerable sector screening
• Be able to obtain Canada Corrections clearance through the Enhanced Reliability Screening process
• Note: Alternative combination of education and experience may be considered

The Salvation Army will accommodate candidates as required under applicable human rights legislation.

If you require a disability-related accommodation during this process, please inform us of your requirements.

Internal Applicants, please advise Department Heads of your intentions prior to submitting your application.