Housing Assistant

Project Renewal•New York, NY

2d•$19 - $20

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Director of Social Services, with some latitude for independent action and decision making, the Housing Specialist is responsible for identifying housing options for the clients, especially the long term stayers, and assisting the clients in preparing and submitting applications so permanent housing can be obtained, the lengths of stay in the shelter can be reduced, and clients can obtain independence and return to their communities; performs related duties.

Requirements

All candidates must have a High School Diploma and Driver’s License
A minimum of 1) year of progressively responsible experience working with mentally ill individuals or homeless individuals in finding permanent housing.
A knowledge of low-income housing in New York City as well as special needs housing, including the NY/NY Supportive Housing and Section 8 housing.
Must have excellent oral, writing and listening skills.
The ability to work independently and to initiate corrective actions to help clients seeking permanent housing.
Must have the ability to interface with clients as well as all levels of staff.
Must have knowledge of case management software as well as a proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Word and EXCEL.

Responsibilities

Visits housing providers’ facilities to develop and maintain a positive working relationship with them and to get as much information as possible for the clients applying for placement.
Prepare clients for housing interviews, conducting mock interview sessions, accompanying them on tours of facilities, and in general coordinate and facilitate the referral processes.
Coordinates escorts services for groups of clients going for housing placement interviews.
Review and update the tracking system for submitted applications, interviews and selections or denials.
Performs special follow-up on any denial of housing applications submitted to housing providers.
Works collaboratively with Case Managers on housing options for clients and having the documented financial resources for submitting the applications to the housing provider.
Attends and participates in the weekly Performance for Permanency (P4P) case management conferences.
Per the discharge documents for clients, participates in 6-month follow-up with clients placed in housing to track their progress in maintaining their new housing.
Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Social Services
Submit potential packages and active housing packages spreadsheet every Monday