Neighbor Support Specialist

TREASURE COAST FOOD BANK•Fort Pierce, FL

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Neighbor Support Specialist supports Treasure Coast Food Bank’s mission by connecting individuals and families to public assistance programs that promote food security and economic stability. The position provides hands-on assistance at community outreach sites, helping neighbors understand eligibility requirements, complete benefit applications, submit documentation, monitor application progress, and communicate with partner agencies. Programs include SNAP, Medicaid, Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), and Florida KidCare. The Specialist serves as a liaison between clients and agencies such as ACCESS Florida and the Department of Children and Families (DCF), while conducting outreach and building relationships with community partners. The role also includes screening clients for other Food Bank programs, maintaining accurate records, tracking program activity and outcomes, and keeping informed about public-benefit policy changes. The position operates primarily in community settings, with occasional office work and regular travel to outreach locations.

Requirements

Minimum of one year of outreach, case management, customer service, or benefits navigation experience.
Strong empathy and commitment to serving vulnerable populations.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to explain complex information clearly and in a user-friendly way.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple cases and follow through on deadlines.
Cultural competency and ability to work with diverse communities.
Problem-solving skills and ability to navigate changing policies and systems.
Self-motivation and ability to work independently in community settings.
Strong computer and web-based application skills, including Microsoft Office, online systems, and databases.
Ability to navigate online application platforms and assist others in using them.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
High attention to detail and accuracy in documentation and reporting.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and occasional Saturdays.
Valid Florida driver’s license, reliable transportation, and insurance.
Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening, Level II background check, and driving record check.
Ability to stand, walk, and travel frequently throughout the workday.
Ability to sit, stand, walk, and work on a laptop for extended periods.
Ability to transport materials and equipment for outreach events as needed.
Ability to communicate clearly in person, by phone, and electronically.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
Experience working in nonprofit, social services, or community-based programs.
Knowledge of public assistance programs including SNAP, Medicaid, TCA, and Florida KidCare.
Bilingual ability, especially Creole or Spanish.

Responsibilities

Provide clear guidance on public assistance programs and eligibility requirements.
Assist individuals and families with applications for SNAP, Medicaid, Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA), and Florida KidCare.
Help clients complete online applications and submit required documentation.
Monitor application status and follow up with clients and agencies as needed.
Explain next steps, appointment requirements, and eligibility determinations to clients.
Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in client interactions.
Conduct outreach at community locations serving low-income individuals, seniors, families, transient populations, and immigrant communities.
Represent Treasure Coast Food Bank at outreach events, community sites, and partner locations.
Build relationships with community partners to expand access to benefits services.
Maintain a consistent outreach schedule.
Serve as a liaison between clients and partner agencies, including ACCESS Florida and DCF.
Communicate with partner organizations to support client needs and resolve application issues.
Stay informed about federal and state public-benefit policy updates and communicate changes to leadership.
Maintain accurate and timely records of client interactions, applications, and outcomes.
Track and report application activity, outreach efforts, and program performance metrics.
Screen clients for additional Treasure Coast Food Bank programs, including Home Delivery and other support services.
Use databases and reporting systems to maintain data accuracy and compliance.
Perform other responsibilities as assigned in support of program operations and organizational goals.
Perform regular or emergency duties on-site when required during a declared emergency.
Travel regularly to outreach locations throughout St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties.