Housing Counsellor

Hostel Services program provides short-term accommodation and support services for vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness including but not limited to vulnerable populations, refugees, women fleeing domestic violence and singles. 

These are full time non-union contract positions scheduled to work 35 hours per week.

(Monday- Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm).

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conducts housing search in and outside of Toronto for newcomer individuals and families.
• If needed escorts clients to housing appointments and advocates on their behalf.
• Secures appropriate and affordable housing for clients. 
• Provides support to clients in negotiating and finalizing housing leases.
• Recruits housing providers and maintains a housing data bank/registry of housing providers.
• Provides crisis support and intervention as required.
• Mentoring volunteers to assist with housing search and escorting of clients.
• Conducts housing orientation sessions to ensure that client understands rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords.
• Liaises and consults with other professionals and organizations.
• Refers clients to community & social service agencies for additional support.
• Keep administrative records of services and activities, prepare necessary reports and input data using COSTI and HiFis databases. 
• Perform other duties as required. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Social Service Worker Diploma or equivalent with relevant practicum experience. 
• Minimum of one (1) year full time experience providing housing services to refugee claimants and newcomers.
• Demonstrated experience providing services to families, refugee claimants, and newcomers.
• The ability to speak a second language is an asset. Preference will be given to those who speak Arabic, French, or Luganda
• Minimum 9 months case management experience
• Experience working with landlords and knowledge of various supportive housing programs
• Knowledge of specific issues facing people fleeing war
• Knowledge of settlement and housing related services and resources, with an emphasis on the services and resources that exist within York Region and the Greater Toronto Area. 
• Knowledge of Internet, Email and Windows software e.g. Microsoft Office Suite. 
• Demonstrated experience in data-entry, documentation and reporting.
• Excellent communication, organization and coordination skills.
• Possession of a valid First Aid/CPR training certificate is required.
• Required to provide a valid Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) Police check. The VSS must have been completed within the last 6 months. 
• Must be able to travel within the GTA to multiple locations using public transportation. Access to a vehicle is considered an asset.
• Must be fully vaccinated or be exempt from vaccination on human rights grounds. COSTI reserves the right to require information establishing the validity of the exemption.

**Hours of work shall be scheduled in accordance with Article 12.01and shall consist of five (5) seven (7) hour days, Monday to Friday.

LOCATION:                                        Highway 7 and 404 (Markham)

DURATION:                                       December 16, 2024 to June 30, 2025

SALARY RANGE:                             $29.56 to $30.99 per hour

POSTING DATE:                               November 29, 2024

CLOSING DATE:                               December 12, 2024