Housing Support Worker

Title:               Women in Supportive Housing: Housing Support Worker

Department:  Housing

Reports to:     Housing Manager

Classification: Full time: typically (37.5 hrs/week), Term position with the possibility of renewal

Deadline:        May 19, 2023

Other:             Must have a valid driver’s license and consistent access to a reliable vehicle.

YWCA Halifax is a progressive, multi-service, not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of women, girls, two-spirited and gender diverse people and their families at critical turning points in their lives. We work to transform lives by providing a continuum of services and programs that drive lasting positive change. We strive to change the underlying issues that are root causes of inequality, violence, poverty, and homelessness. Our four program focus areas include: promoting the health, wellness, and leadership of women and girls; advancing women’s economic and housing security; delivering quality, accessible, early learning, and childcare; and working to end violence against women, girls and gender diverse individuals.

Why work for the YWCA

Staff at YWCA Halifax enjoy a supportive and dynamic team environment, a commitment to staff growth, a connection to the national and international YWCA movements, learning from colleagues in a multiservice agency, and a strong shared vision.

Why YOU should apply

Even if you don’t have all the requirements listed in this position, you may be the right candidate. If you are a natural leader with a strong attention to detail and a passion for social justice and gender equity, we want to hear from you.  Take a chance and apply.  Tell us how you can make a difference through your YWCA.

Women In Supportive Housing (WISH) Program

The WISH program supports 34 women in independent housing who are exiting shelters, streets, and corrections and who face multiple barriers to living independently.  Our Housing First approach has been recognized nationally and our participant-centred program has proven successful in the more than ten years it has been operating. We are seeking an experienced front-line worker to join our dynamic and creative housing team.  Reporting to the Housing Manager, the Housing Support Worker is part of a team that believes that women have a right to quality, affordable housing and the supports they need to be successful in life.

Qualifications and Experience

• Undergraduate degree in Social Work or related field such as, sociology, psychology, or equivalent.
• Two years’ experience working with individuals who have multiple barriers, women who are homeless or at risk, women living in poverty and/or those who face mental health and addiction concerns.
• Experience in case management and delivery of direct support services required.
• Strong advocacy skills and the ability to work collaboratively with community partners.
• Excellent administrative and organizational skills
• Exceptional communication (both written and oral) skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Effective interpersonal skills, computer literacy. Familiar with HIFIS (Homeless Individuals and Families Information Systems, a national database that tracks statistics related to homelessness) and SPDAT considered an asset.
• Must have First Aid/CPR and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention training.
• Subject to Criminal Records check with Vulnerable Sector search and a Child Abuse Registry search.

Essential Duties of Position

• Advance the mission and vision of the YWCA Halifax.
• Responsible for direct service delivery to participants in a housing setting: case management, home visits, advocacy.
• Responsible for developing and maintaining partnerships with external program partners including the Department of Community Services, health care professionals, etc.
• Responsible for achieving goals/objectives/outcomes, and reporting on results in relation to work plans.
• Ensures that program activities operate within the policies and procedures of the YWCA Halifax.
• Ensure that participant information files are properly maintained and kept confidential.
• Train and supervise students and volunteers.
• Must be available for emergency and On Call duties.

YWCA Halifax is committed to diversity, and we welcome all suitably qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. YWCA Halifax is governed by, employs, and serves diverse individuals and community members. Self-identification by applicants does not guarantee an interview but we want you to know that we understand that lived experience of racialization, Indigeneity, (dis)Ability, and gender diversity are their own knowledge and expertise. We value this expertise and consider it as we discern who to interview.

If interested, please send your cover letter and resume in one document to humanresources@ywcahalifax.com
Subject Line: WISH Housing Support Worker