Residential Worker – more than required (union position)

To work with the Residential Worker Supervisor in supporting the shelter in achieving its vision of Housing, Outcomes, Mission and Excellence (HOME) by providing outstanding, client-centered services that are aligned with The Salvations Army’s core values and Housing First principles

Residential Workers are responsible for the day-to-day administration of client services. Workers are essential to provide wraparound client-centered care to clients during their stay. Staff are responsible for completing a comprehensive intake process including the Triage, monitoring clients in the shelter, proving appropriate supports and referrals, support shelter programming, keep up-to-date documentation and perform some administrative duties as well as seeing that all specific shift responsibilities are carried out.

SERVICE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Admit and discharge clients as required
• Facilitate intake and Triage processes for clients by completing an intake interview in a private space, collecting required information to determine level of service need
• Provide appropriate information and resources, orient residents to hostel regulations and schedules as well as all available services during the intake process
• Provide proactive and client-centered supports to seniors experiencing homelessness
• Create a professional and welcoming environment to clients and staff
• Provide supports to clients with a focus on housing, using a strength-based approach
• Ensure resident admission and discharge information is recorded in appropriate places
• Assist with supervision of clients
• Provide practical and emotional support, assistance and encouragement to clients
• Perform all necessary clerical duties for documentation, including SMIS, Triage, documentation, Reports, and all other required forms
• Make necessary internal referrals to Case Management department or pastoral care
• Make necessary/appropriate external referrals to community resources to assist clients in meeting their basic needs and assist in moving towards housing and housing stability
• Support clients in securing identification and completing taxes and gaining income as identified on the Intake Triage
• Monitor the length of stay of clients and notify Case Management team of significant stays and/or changes in client behaviors that may require greater support
• Support Level 1 clients in navigating basic social service supports
• Sort and process resident mail on a daily basis, stamp and distribute all mail; redirect all mail for residents who are no longer at shelter
• Organize linens collection and distribution each Thursday
• Report all building problems to the Assistant Director or designate
• Ensure all donations are received and processed according to policy
• Ensure that all telephone calls are dealt with professionally and appropriately
• Be an excellent representative of the Salvation Army standards of professionalism, decorum and compassion
• Conduct Fire-watch and participate in Health and Safety Meetings
• Inform Management of any Health and Safety Concerns in a timely manner
• Ensure effective communications with Management and colleagues through email, SMIS, inter-personal and telephone etc.
• Engage with staff meetings in a productive manner, with a willingness to problem-solve, work collaboratively and learn.
• To be an advocate on behalf of the clients to assist them in accessing resources, getting housed, seeking professional help etc.
• Support clients in following agency rules and expectations consistently

o    Address concerns that arise due to infractions of rules by clients in ways that are consistent with Toronto Hostel Standards, The Salvation Army policies and procedures with compassion, and in a non-judgmental and client-centered manner

o    Ensure that clients are familiar with the building, the brochure, policies and safety practices

• Arrange for wake-up calls for residents who request them
• Update Fire sheet regularly
• Update inventory and Documentation regularly
• Night shifts are responsible for bed checks, and disposing of 7-day hold items
• Be awake during entire shift as aligned with Toronto Shelter Standards
• Store and properly document belongings of clients who have booked out
• Make regular rounds throughout building; including walking through the dormitory and bathrooms on all shifts as outlined in shift duties
• Maintain a clean a welcoming atmosphere
• Assist in serving meals as required
• To perform all other related duties as required by Management

Education/Certifications:

• Minimum of a 2-year college diploma in social sciences field, preferably as a social worker or social service worker
• Certification in CPR/First Aid and Crisis Intervention, Applied Suicide Intervention training an asset
• Valid Driver’s License

Experience:

• Minimum one-year experience working in residential settings and/or completed practicum experience working with Toronto Housing and Homeless Supports shelter
• Knowledge, experience understanding and compassion for working with people experiencing homelessness, addictions, mental health and trauma
• Experience working with seniors is a valuable asset

Required Skills/Knowledge:

• Highly proficient with the computer, Microsoft Office, SMIS and clerical skills
• Fluent in written and spoken English. A second language is an asset
• Ability to function as a team member
• Possess excellent problem-solving skills
• Ability to work within the mandate of and embrace the mission of The Salvation Army, exemplifying Christian standards of conduct

Successful candidate will be required to provide upon hiring:

• A clear vulnerable sector screening
• A clean drivers abstract
• Participate in our online Armatus Abuse Training and Health and Safety training required upon hiring, as well as updated annually

HOURS: Full Time: 40 hours per week; Part Time: Weekends 16 hours; Relief: as needed

The Salvation Army offers accommodation for applicants with disabilities in its recruitment process.  If you are contacted to participate in an interview or screening process, please advise us if you require accommodation.

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

Internal Applicants, must advise your managing supervisor of your intentions prior to submitting your application