Housing Specialist

WEST SIDE FED SR.SUP•New York, NY

17h•$27 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Housing Specialist 2, the Housing Specialist is responsible for assisting assigned residents with their applications for housing and working with the team to help residents meet their goal of finding permanent housing appropriate to their needs. The mission of WSFSSH is to provide safe, affordable, senior housing that integrates compassionate property management with supportive services to enhance the independence and dignity of each resident. WSFSSH creates and preserves affordable housing while supporting the development of healthy neighborhoods.

Requirements

Minimum of 1 year of experience providing housing information/applications for homeless individuals.
Strong computer skills and experience with databases, electronic charting such as AWARDS (Foothold Technology) and CARES (DHS).

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of US Immigration policies, including eligibility for and procedures for applying for benefits.
Bilingual Spanish/English.

Responsibilities

Establish one-to-one relationships with residents.
Manage housing applications for residents to permanent housing and track the progress.
Coordinate effectively with the social service staff on any necessary documentation.
Where appropriate, accompany residents to housing interviews, conduct tours of various housing options.
Provide individual and group information about housing options.
Once resident is housed, provide support and coordination to community resources and be a liaison to the landlord where needed.
Provide crisis intervention as needed.
Protect resident rights.
Ensure housing packets/applications are completed and are in compliance with requirements of regulatory bodies, including but not limited to: New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, New York City Dept. of Homeless Services, New York City Dept. of Buildings, New York City Dept. of Housing Preservation and Development, FDNY, City of New York Dept. of Health and Mental Health, Coalition for the Homeless.
Provide administrative support to ensure any data is entered into AWARDS and CARES databases as required by contract agencies.
Work as a member of a team to establish and maintain a high level of care and respect for and communication with residents and staff.
Work closely with the Housing Specialist Coordinator and the Valley Lodge team to ensure housing placements and related follow-up are on track.
Share information about resident progress, needs, and problems with other staff in accordance with WSFSSH confidentiality policy.
Attend training sessions and conferences as required for enhancement of job skills and professional development.
Submit all required reports in a complete and timely manner.