Why join CMHA Kenora? We are a team committed to our vision of mental health support for all. We offer an inclusive, innovative, and high-performance work culture that helps us deliver transformational impact. The organization cares about the growth, safety and well-being of employees and offers:
Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP)
Comprehensive Health Benefits Employee & Family Assistance Program

Paid Vacation Days
Learning & professional development opportunities
Deadline to apply: August 20th, 2026
Kitchen Lead/Cook
Kenora Emergency Shelter
Employer: CMHA Kenora Branch
Job Title: Kitchen Lead/Cook
Work Location: Kenora Emergency Shelter
Employment Status: Full-Time, 12 Month Contract
Wage: $26.27/ hour
For more information, please visit www.cmhak.on.ca
Overview Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer and the Kenora Emergency Shelter Team Lead the Kitchen Lead is responsible for planning and preparing nutritious meals. The Kitchen Lead will work seven and a half hour shifts. They will participate as a member of a team of professionals whose focus is safety, stability and support for individuals in a housing crisis.
Qualifications Diploma in a culinary program an asset, High school graduation diploma or GED minimum
Experience working with individuals with mental health struggles and addictions and/or demonstrated ability to work with vulnerable populations
Personal qualities of empathy, understanding, and patience Good interpersonal communication and relationship building skills Ability to communicate professionally with community agencies Knowledge of community resources
Cultural competence for diverse populations Understanding and applied knowledge of Recovery Model
Understanding of trauma informed practice and implementation Good documentation skills
Ability to learn and understand online scheduling Proficient computer skills




Demonstrated understanding of personal space and ability to role model healthy boundaries Ability to manage conflict and crisis situations
Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment Creative problem solving
First aid & CPR/AED, Mental health first aid, and NVCI or willing to obtain Valid Driver's License
Duties Adherence to all policies and procedures of Canadian Mental Health Association, Kenora Branch
Ensure safety and security of all patrons during shift, including interpersonal safety and security of the shelter
Planning and preparing nutritional, tasty and cost-effective meals for large numbers
Maintain health and safety standards as required by governments
Organizing and maintaining food inventory
Communicate with patrons/staff possible food allergies and restrictions
Creating grocery list and purchasing
Ensure completion of shift responsibilities and routines as identified in Policies and Procedures
Communicate with Shelter Team Lead of any building maintenance issues to be addressed
Preform general housekeeping duties such as sweeping and mopping of floors, emptying garbage cans, clean and sanitize kitchen area
Attend monthly staff meetings and education/training opportunities as required
Participate on specific committees or working groups as assigned by Chief Executive Officer
Provide a safe environment by ensuring adherences to Workplace Health and Safety Regulations and Policies, Infection Control Guidelines, WHIMIS and Secure Work Procedures; including but not limited to Fire, Disaster and Evacuation Plans
Ensure client safety and client safety activities are emphasized throughout orientation of new staff members
Support an environment which avoids, prevents and corrects all activities or actions which may result in an adverse outcome in the delivery of mental health services
Responsible for self-care
The Canadian Mental Health Association, Kenora Branch welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

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📌 Kitchen Lead/Cook (Ontario)
🏢 Canadian Mental Health Association
📍 Ontario