Temporary Full Time Housing Case Worker ending December 31, 2021

The Housing Case Worker will provide a full range of services to obtain and/or maintain housing offered through the Prevention and Diversion program and the Homelessness Prevention Fund in adherence with the program operating standards set out by the Housing and Homelessness system for the City of Kingston

Client Services

• Provide all aspects of client services as outlined in the city of Kingston’s Housing and Homelessness Services System
• Provide intake using the Coordinated Intake protocol to determine client eligibility and entrance to the Prevention and Diversion or Assessment for Housing First programs
• Provide outreach services to those ‘living in the rough’ to understand their housing needs and begin the engagement and triage process
• Address the immediate housing crisis based on the intake results and needs of the household through the Prevention and Diversion or the Assessment for Housing First programs
• Works within the established institutional discharge protocols so that persons who are being discharged from institutions have a housing or shelter plan prior to discharge
• Under the Prevention and Diversion program, develop a plan in collaboration with the household using a brief intervention approach that decreases the likelihood of future or recurrent housing crisis which may include short term case management and community and supports
• Provide light support for addressing immediate and urgent needs such assisting with income supports or identification; initiating referrals to mainstream services, including health care; and other time limited activities while the individual is waiting for ongoing case management support
• Prevent imminent evictions by negotiating and /or consulting with community legal services as required
• Offer general housing assistance or information as requested
• Assist the household to secure financial assistance to meet tenancy obligations such as paying rent, utilities etc.
• Ensure household has the tools to maintain tenancy using referrals to community supports

Administrative

• Engage with Indigenous communities
• Maintain case files for each household including accurate documentation, ensuring all appropriate forms and case notes are completed
• Complete applications for the Homelessness Prevention Fund as appropriate forwarding application to the agency reviewer for review and approval
• Ensure accurate collection and maintenance of data; submit monthly and quarterly statistics
• Ensure the completion of accurate record keeping and management in accordance with relevant privacy legislation
• Attend internal and quarterly Prevention and Diversion meetings
• Collect and maintain client information and files as required
• Participate in staff meetings, information sharing and staff debriefing
• Document direct service family updates on a weekly basis for the Supervisor/and or Program Coordinator

Training

• Attend all necessary and required training sessions that support the Prevention and Diversion program
• Complete all Salvation Army required training

Health & Safety

• Ensure that the work area is maintained regarding appearance, condition and safety as recommended by Public Health etc.
• Seek out continual education and resources for all areas of responsibilities, specifically regarding COVID-19 requirements as per the local Health Unit
• Work in compliance with the OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army’s health and safety policies and procedures

Education/Certifications:

• Completion of up to two years at an accredited Community College
• Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered
• First Aid & CPR Certification
• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Certification would be an asset

Experience:

• Minimum of three years experience working with those living in poverty, dealing with housing and homelessness issues and/or mental health sectors

Required Skills/Knowledge:

• Valid Ontario Class “G” Driver’s License; access to personal vehicle and a current copy of a Driver’s abstract that is satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion, is required
• Bilingual in English and French preferred
• Strong background of and understanding of indigenous histories and cultures
• Understanding of psycho-social recovery, motivational interviewing and journey of change and its influence on outcomes
• Ability to utilize assessment protocols in the delivery of services
• Knowledge of homelessness and affordable housing issues within the community and Housing First strategies to end homelessness
• Ability to integrate harm reduction approaches as appropriate in daily interactions with individuals, youth and families
• Ability to use assertive engagement techniques as appropriate in interactions
• Knowledge of residential tenancy act and role of Landlord Tenant Board, in landlord Tenant disputes
• Knowledge of resources in the community for individuals, youth and families who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, living in poverty or living with mental health and addiction issues
• Proficient in working in a computerized environment; must demonstrate strong skills using Microsoft Office
• Effective interpersonal, communication and organizational skills
• Attention to detail, problem solving and analytical skills
• Self-motivated/disciplined
• Exhibit strong problem solving, conflict resolution and mediation skills within a solution focused framework
• Strong sense of integrity and confidentiality with professional ethics
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and participate as a responsible member in a cooperative team environment
• Develop an understanding and support for the mission and purpose of The Salvation Army in Canada and its implications as related to position responsibilities

Successful candidate will be required to provide upon hiring:

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

HOURS: 35 hours per week

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.