Housing Outreach Worker

Family Services Windsor-Essex•Windsor, ON

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Housing Outreach Worker (WOW) provides client-focused, one-on-one support to individuals accessing services at the Windsor Ontario Works (W.O.W.) office, many of whom are experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Acting as a key point of connection, the Housing Outreach Worker (WOW) supports individuals in navigating community resources, accessing housing options, and moving toward greater stability and self-sufficiency.

Requirements

University degree in Social Work (preferred) or a related field.
Minimum 2 years’ experience in case management, community outreach, mental health, addictions or the housing and homelessness sector
Sound understanding of available housing, income support and related agency/government assistance programs in the community.
Demonstrated ability to perform proactive community outreach activities.
Strong advocacy skills on behalf of vulnerable individuals.
Experience using Microsoft Office Suite, including but not limited to Excel, Word, PowerPoint.
Must have a valid driver’s license, automobile insurance, and use of your own vehicle.

Responsibilities

Take referrals from Ontario Works Caseworkers to assist clients with accessing the appropriate resources. Including assisting with the completion of ODSP packages, obtaining replacement ID, completing Central Housing applications.
Checking and maintaining the Ontario Works SharePoint document.
Establish and maintain a current list of the available community resources available to individuals and families.
Meet with potential clients, to assess, and determine the appropriate support necessary to help resolve their needs.
Provide resources and referrals to individuals or families that assist with problem solving.
Establish professional working relationships with community partners to properly assist the needs of clients.
If a client is identified as unhoused, add individuals to the BNPL through the community’s coordinated access initiative
Assist clients by providing all the different housing options and assisting them with searches if necessary.
Assertively engage with clients to secure housing including unit rental, damage deposits, securing income assistance if required, setting up of utilities, signing of leases, and arranging for furnishings and household items to establish their homes.
Assist clients by providing information on the Tenant’s rights and referring them to legal assistance if necessary.
Document all activities using workbooks and SharePoint and HIFIS
Provide support as needed to the Program Coordinator