JOB TITLE: Housing Support Worker

REPORTS TO: Nova Scotia Native Women's Association, Executive Director

POSITION OVERVIEW: The Housing Support Worker is responsible for helping clients attain and maintain housing. The clients supported by the Housing Support Worker may experience a variety of barriers such as physical health, mental health, substance use challenges and varying levels of ability and life skills when accessing or maintaining housing and other services. The Housing Support Worker must support clients with a client-centered, anti-oppressive, decolonized, and trauma informed approach emphasizing a harm reduction practice. The Housing Support Worker must also follow the principles of Housing First; housing is a basic human right without the need to abstain from activities that may be considered risky. The Housing Support Worker must build relationships with clients and work collaboratively with them to achieve their goals while prioritizing client autonomy. The Housing Support Worker will also work collaboratively with other service providers including government agencies, community organizations, members of the health care and legal systems. The NSNWA's approach to housing is client-centered, and wrap-around support, therefore the Housing Support Worker is also responsible in working with clients who need food support, basic need security, and other supports.

RESPONSIBILITES/DUTIES:

- Ensure the program delivery is in alignment with the NSNWA, JPC and Cedar House Mission and Vision
- Ensure clients are fully informed of all programs of the NSNWA, JPC and Cedar House
- Participate in NSNWA organizational responsibilities including but not limited to staff meetings, safety and monitoring meetings, training and committee participation as requested.
- Commit to the development of the Cedar House and participate in internal committees, projects and activities
- Adhere to all policies governing NSNWA, JPC and Cedar House as applicable
- Record recent client information, case files and relevant statistical data




- Compile statistics and data that will assist with the outcomes and evaluation of the housing initiative.
- Maintain accurate, comprehensive documentation regarding all interaction with clients. Documentation must be in accordance with applicable standards and adhere to funder requirements.
- Be the first point of contact for clients and triage clients based on needs assessments and intake processes.
- Provide intake, assessment, referrals, assistance in accessing resources, crisis intervention, eviction prevention, and outreach mediation for clients.
- Support individuals and families to navigate appropriate systems related to obtaining and maintaining housing.
- Connect clients to community resources, supports and meaningful activities as required
- Develop with the individual a recovery plan that is strength based and grounded in the principles of Housing First and Harm Reduction, and monitor individual progress towards their goals
- Be a strong internal and external relationships
- Advocate for clients rights at an individual and broader systemic level
- Assist in program and service development to ensure that quality, effective and client-centered programs and services are delivered
- Liaise and develop relationships with landlords and property managers
- Assist clients with viewing potential housing and completing applications when required
- Attend all lease signings with clients

QUALIFICATIONS:

- Experience working in related field with an emphasis on mental health, substance use disorders, homelessness and/or social services or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience
- Certificate, Diploma or Degree in community social services; or education and mental health addictions, concurrent disorders/co-occurring disorders and social work.
- Knowledge, awareness,



ability to work with and sensitivity to Indigenous people and culture including an understanding of the historical and current issues they face in Nova Scotia
- Demonstrated understanding of Housing First and Harm Reduction principles and approach
- Comprehensive knowledge of community resources, programs, services including Employment and Income Support, local/provincial housing, subsidy programs and residential tenancy rights and regulations
- Varied shifts depending on the need of community/organization
- Ability to effectively communication in both oral and written form paying attention to details and accuracy
- Knowledge of Indigenous communities and organizations in Nova Scotia and the services they provide both on and off reserve
- Ability to work with culturally diverse diverse clientele demonstrating cultural awareness and sensitivity
- Proven ability to complete projects according to outlined scope, budget, and timeline
- Ability to manage complex and highly confidential information and maintain strict confidentiality
- Ability to proactively identify issues, adapt and recommend suitable solutions
- Ability to work with vulnerable populations
- Valid drivers license, reliable vehicle, and the ability to travel throughout the province including overnight stays
- Criminal record check- vulnerable sector and child abuse registry
- Knowledge of residential tenancy laws and other housing programs

Preference disclaimer: We are an equal opportunity employer, however, qualified Aboriginal applicants will be given priority in accordance with the Aboriginal Employment Preference Policy of the Canadian Human Rights Commission. Only those applicants who qualify for an interview will be contacted. Applicants must provide proof of Canadian Citizenship of Permanent Residency.

Job Type: Fixed term contract

Pay: From $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- Casual dress
- Dental care
- Employee assistance program
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
- RRSP match
- Vision care

Work Location: In person

📌 Housing Support Worker (Millbrook)
🏢 Nova Scotia Native Women's Association
📍 Millbrook