About the Job:

This role is reporting to the Program Manager within SHIPs Supportive Housing department, in collaboration with the partnering organization of CMHA Peel-Dufferin, Post Court Transition Program. The Community Mental Health Counsellor (CMHC), Housing Specialist, will be responsible for providing housing assessment, preparation, search, and retention support to individuals with mental health and addictions who have had justice involvement, to support immediate needs of post-court stabilization and support and transition them to longer-term supports. The Housing Specialist will support SHIPs Supportive Housing department with rental market navigation, housing searches, and retention of housing with a Housing First approach.

They will provide information on resources, coordination of housing support through a client-centered model of support. They will work in collaboration with clients, clinical support, property owners and housing providers, in support of client goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Housing assessments using a housing first approach

• Community outreach to support clients in finding housing accommodations

• Conduct needs assessments to determine daily living requirements and plans of care

• Maintain consistent communication and regular meetings to track clients’ outcomes

• Act as first point of contact to landlords for access to information, education, and support

• Provide conflict resolution in partnership with clients to ensure mediation, resolution and avert potential eviction

• Advocate on behalf of clients to navigate housing and social services

• Assess and refer clients to other service providers as appropriate (substance abuse and medical care treatment)

• Work independently and collaboratively within a high functioning team to carry out mental health recovery and tenancy support

• Understand and be able to integrate a philosophy of client-centered care into daily responsibilities

• Demonstrate a strong commitment to quality care and service delivery based on Housing First principles

• Ensure appropriate records are kept and ensure that statistical information is maintained as per agency standards

• Adhere to the Health & Safety Program and the Client Safety Framework in the promotion of client safety

• Perform additional duties as required/delegated by Management

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary education in Social Work, Social Services, Health Services, or equivalent
• 2-3 years’ experience providing housing support to individuals with mental health challenges
• Understanding of the Housing First philosophy & experience in housing searches, lease agreements, and the Rental Tenancies Act
• Understanding of homelessness and at risk of homelessness
• Excellent time management, prioritization abilities, and communication
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft software (e.g., Excel, Word, etc.)
• Must have a valid Ontario’s Class “G” Driver’s License, and daily use of a vehicle with adequate insurance coverage
• Valid Certification in First Aid & CPR
• Training in ASIST and CPI

Reporting Function:

The successful candidate will report directly to the Program Manager and Supervisor. They will work with both internal and external clients and will interact with all levels within the organization.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements:

• Day shift (Monday – Friday) with the ability to flex shifts and work excess/overtime hours where required
• Able to sit for prolonged periods of time
• Able to answer and communicate telephone calls and general computer use
• Able to lift up to 20lbs (product, documents, etc.)
• Vehicle travel to sites for visits/walk-throughs

Ship Values

• Compassion, Hope, Inclusive, Respect, Professional

“SHIP strives to be equitable and inclusive in all that we do. Equity is a core value, and we are committed to providing an inclusive selection process. We encourage applicants from equity deserving communities including women, Black, Indigenous, other racialized groups, 2SLGBTQ+ persons, individuals with disabilities and others who will contribute to and enrich the organization and its values. We are committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment, selection processes, and work environments. Please advise the People and Culture Department of any accommodations needed in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005 and the Ontario Human Rights Code to ensure you have access to a fair and equitable process”.

Please note that we use automated screening tools as part of our recruitment process and are reviewed to support fair and equitable hiring practices.

Monday - Friday | 8:30am - 4:30pm
UNION | 37.5 hours per week