Overview

We are seeking compassionate and dedicated Shelter Workers to join our team in providing a safe and supportive environment for individuals experiencing homelessness or crisis.

The Shelter

Worker plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being of residents, maintaining a clean and organized shelter, and fostering a respectful community atmosphere.

The Shelter Services

Worker is responsible to ensure all services are provided in keeping with the philosophical framework set out within the Vision, Mission, and Values of Transition House Coalition of Northumberland. This position offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable populations while working in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Responsibilities

- Supervise daily operations within the shelter, ensuring adherence to policies and procedures.
- Provide direct support to residents, including assistance with basic needs such as food, hygiene, and shelter resources.
- Conduct intake assessments for new residents, gathering necessary information and providing orientation to shelter services.
- Facilitate group activities and workshops aimed at promoting life skills, personal development, and community engagement.
- Support residents in developing life skills and connecting them with ongoing services
- Maintain accurate records of resident interactions, incidents, and services provided.
- Collaborate with social service agencies and community organizations to connect residents with additional resources.
- Ensure the cleanliness and safety of the shelter environment, addressing any maintenance or safety concerns promptly.
- Respond effectively to emergencies or crises that may arise within the shelter.




- Engage with clients in a supportive manner, utilizing trauma-informed care, harm reduction principles and de-escalation techniques;
- Ensure compliance with the Ontario Health and Safety Act and other relevant legislation;
- Work collaboratively with local agencies such as police, mental health and addictions workers, emergency rooms, harm reduction and outreach, and personnel;
- Responsible for the approval of diversion, intake, and discharge procedures;
- Maintain and monitor staff binders and sign offs to ensure accuracy;
- Report and document any concerns or issues to the Management team;

Requirements

- A diploma, degree, or certificate in the social services, or a combination of education and experience;
- Previous experience in a shelter or similar setting;
- Strong time management with the ability to handle multiple priorities;
- Knowledge of, and ability to, apply harm reduction, housing first, shelter diversion, and trauma-informed care principles in day-to-day client interactions;
- Demonstrated proficiency in using Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and other applications, as well as expertise with client databases;
- Ability to respond to clients with complex needs who experience barriers to obtaining and retaining adequate housing due to complex coexisting conditions such as addictions, mental health issues, PTSD,



and other trauma;
- Compassionate attitude with strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to assess emergency situations and respond effectively;
- Ability to remain calm and professional in stressful situations
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with team members and external partners
- Flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, or overnight hours as needed
- Basic First Aid and CPR certification;
- Clear police check (vulnerable sector), renewed yearly;
- Other duties as assigned.
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and respecting residents’ dignity

Physical Nature of Employment

- Some moderate lifting of supplies, groceries, furniture, etc. required;
- Moderate household activities such as contributing to maintaining the cleanliness of the building and property;
- Busy, sometimes noisy environment;
- Multitasking with possibility of frequent interruptions;
- Shared office space.

This role is essential in creating a welcoming environment that promotes safety, stability, and hope for those in need. Please note that this is a unionized position with an increase to $23.50 per hour after completing the 6 month probationary period.

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and resume for consideration. Only applicants who submit a cover letter and resume will be reviewed and considered.

Pay: From $23.50 per hour

Benefits

- Casual dress
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule

Licence/Certification:
- Vulnerable Sector Check Certificate (preferred)
- First Aid Certification (preferred)

Work Location: In person

📌 Shelter Services Worker - Part Time Relief (Cobourg)
🏢 Transition House
📍 Cobourg