The Settlement Counsellorwill provide initial settlement and case management services/support to residents to ensure they can successfully navigate the refugee claim process, systems, and access resources available to them. This is to make a sustainable transition into the larger community.

The individual would work in collaboration with the Shelter Manager and Shelter Program staff in planning and facilitating programming initiatives and daily operations of the Centre.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Settlement Support

- Conduct and complete action items as outlined under the Immigration Assessment consultations after a new family has moved into the shelter and received a Shelter Orientation.
- Provide information, advocacy and/or referrals regarding Legal Aid Ontario, immigration lawyers, immigration medical examinations, and permanent residency applications for all shelter residents.
- Assist shelter residents with completing forms (e.g. OHIP registration, School registrations, Work Permit, Study Permit, IFHP, and address change, etc.)
- Assist residents in understanding the Interim Federal Health Program and the medical services available (family doctor, specialist services, supplemental services & Emergency Room visits) as well as making referrals and booking medical appointments throughout residents stay at the Centre.
- Assist residents with access to school, ESL, and recreational programs (i.e., Welcome Policy) throughout their residency at the Centre.
- Provide settlement-specific case updates to Shelter Program staff so additional settlement services can be arranged following move-out.




- Make timely referrals to Shelter Program staff to register for social assistance and the Centre’s Housing Program.

Family Support

- Conduct and complete action items as outlined under the Family Assessment consultation after a current family has moved into the shelter and received a Shelter Orientation.
- Provide information, guidance, and assistance to residents with all childcare related needs throughout their resident stay at the Centre.
- Support and assist pregnant women and clients with infants in accessing prenatal services, parenting programs, and any other relevant community resources.
- Recognize and respond appropriately to situations involving family breakdown, domestic violence, child abuse, illness, etc., and report concerns to Management and appropriate supportive agencies, such as Children’s Aid Society (CAS), CCAS or Police when deemed necessary.
- Collaborate with Food Services staff to maintain accurate and up-to-date food accommodation records and the lunch bag list in the Centre’s kitchen.

Case management

- Conduct admissions and Shelter Orientation consultations to newly arrived residents who have moved into staff’s designated floor.
- Conduct monthly Client Service Plan and Client Savings Plan consultations to assist shelter residents in developing their settlement, housing, and financial goals.




- Complete Monthly Summary Case Notes for shelter residents to track case plan progress and services provided by Shelter Program staff.
- Update Shelter Manager and Shelter Program staff on shelter resident case management progress and/or challenges via weekly Shelter Program meetings.

Health Clinic Support

- Work in collaboration with Front Desk Shelter Administrator and other Settlement Counsellors to ensure that CRWC health clinic runs efficiently.
- Book resident’s doctor’s appointments through Inner City Health Associates (ICHA)’s booking system as needed.
- Cover the responsibilities of the Health Clinic Administrator when she/he is away on vacation.

Floor Supervision

- Provide basic needs supports to eligible shelter residents living on staff’s designated floor throughout their residency at the Centre.
- Conduct weekly apartment inspections to ensure that sleeping rooms, washrooms and common areas are being maintained in a suitable condition, and that shelter rules are being followed.
- Answer inquiries from shelter residents as it relates to day-to-day living at the Centre.
- Address concerns or complaints from shelter residents and conduct necessary follow-up in coordination with Shelter Manager and Shelter Program staff.
- Maintain Persons Requiring Assistance (PRA) forms up to date on the designated floors.
- Work with shelter residents to develop and maintain a sense of community and mutual respect on staff’s designated floor.

Shelter Operations

- Conduct quarterly checks on emergency supplies kept onsite in case of

📌 Settlement Counsellor (Canada)
🏢 Christie Welcome Refugee Centre
📍 Canada