Shelter Support Staff (Term)

JOB SUMMARY

This position will provide direct support to community members using trauma-informed and culturally safe practices during the winter months (November - March 31).

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

 Provide direct support to community members accessing Siloam Mission’s Shelter services;

• Prepare and complete incident reports, daily logs, and other required documents and reports; 
• Respond to emergency situations that occur in the Shelter;
• Support the team in the daily clean-ups in the Shelter;
• Coordinating with housing-focused case workers regarding housing plans of community members;
• Ensuring guidelines for baggage limitations are being followed and explained;
• Incorporate a Housing-Focused approach when working with community members;
• Using a Behaviour Based approach when working with community members;
• Using Restorative practices when dealing with behavioral issues;
• 12 hour, overnight shift.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Post-secondary education in relevant social services or an equivalent relevant experience;

• Demonstrated knowledge of Cultural Awareness, Anti-Oppressive Practice, Trauma Informed best practices;

• Knowledge of community resources for homelessness, health, mental health and substance use; and harm reduction;

• Certificates in NVCI, ASIST, CPR First Aid, Mental Health First Aid preferred;

• Experience working with HIFIS4 database is an asset.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/BEHAVIORS

• Ability to work with a diverse staff team and promote inclusion and cultural awareness in the workplace;
• Good understanding of colonization and its impact on Indigenous peoples;
• Demonstrated understanding of the unique issues and barriers affecting those experiencing poverty and homelessness;
• Experience in responding appropriately to potentially violent situations using NVCI;
• Ability to work within a harm reduction framework;
• Knowledge of Housing First Principles and housing resources;
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Ability to communicate appropriate professional boundaries;
• MS Office and data entry skills;

RELATIONSHIP

·         Works closely with Shelter Staff, Community Members, and various other departments of Siloam Mission.

WORKING CONDITIONS

·         Work requires standing, and walking over extended periods of time.

·         May be required to lift up to 50 lbs. occasionally.

·         12 hour shifts – bi weekly hours

·         Overtime may be offered when necessary. 

·         Hazardous conditions could potentially include unpredictable or risky behaviours from community members;

WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY

The incumbent contributes to making the organization safe for clients and staff and recognizes the importance of reporting unsafe situations and participating in follow up reviews as a learning opportunity.

·         Provides a safe environment by ensuring adherences to Workplace Safety and Health

·         Regulations and Policies, Infection Control Guidelines, WHMIS and Safe Work Procedures. Immediately investigates and recommends corrective action on any unsafe acts, work conditions, incidents, near misses, injuries or illnesses.

·         Demonstrates understanding of role and responsibilities in fire prevention and disaster preparedness and participates in safety and health training programs including the facility’s Fire, Disaster and Evacuation Plan.

Supports an environment which avoids, prevents and corrects all activities or actions which may result in an adverse outcome in the delivery of services. Community Member safety is a standing item for all individual and departmental meetings.