Street Outreach Case Manager

Family & Children's Agency•Norwalk, CT

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Family & Children’s Agency (FCA) is seeking a street outreach case manager to provide immediate access to coordinated entry, basic needs, and other services for individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness. This role involves spending 70% of time canvassing in the community to connect with unsheltered households in places not meant for human habitation, who may be hesitant or distrustful of traditional service providers. The case manager will offer engagement, support, crisis counseling, practical assistance (meals, clothing), and facilitate access to coordinated entry appointments and referrals to various homeless and mainstream programs.

Requirements

Bilingual/Spanish Speaking a must
Must have experience working with the homeless population and individuals experiencing mental health and/or substance abuse disorders.
Must have reliable transportation and a valid Driver’s License.
Must have awareness of the cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of clients served.

Nice To Haves

BA in related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct regular and targeted street outreach to locations frequented by people experiencing unsheltered homelessness.
Employ engagement strategies that are sensitive to the unique needs of the population, including those who may be hesitant to seek assistance or distrustful of traditional service providers.
Actively connect with people through community-based settings and ensure they are informed of available housing and services.
Provide immediate support and intervention, including crisis counseling.
Offer practical assistance, such as meals, blankets, clothing and toiletries.
Publicize the availability of services provided within the CAN/ CoC.
Facilitate immediate access to coordinated entry appointments.
Assist people in navigating the homeless service system, including referrals to CAN Navigators to support their understanding of eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.
Provide information and referrals to relevant homeless and mainstream programs, including housing, healthcare, mental health, substance abuse, employment, and education programs.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all outreach activities and interactions with clients, including documentation of homeless status using written observations, referrals or self-certification.
Collect data on the number and characteristics of those served and the causes of their homelessness.
Ensure documentation practices adhere to privacy standards and confidentiality requirements.
Document barriers to employment that unsheltered households are facing, including history of incarceration or detention for criminal activity.
Work closely with the CAN team, including other outreach staff, case managers, and service providers.
Collaborate with other community organizations and agencies that serve people experiencing homelessness, including schools, libraries and other local institutions.
Provide bi-weekly client roster to CAN staff to ensure coordination and program enrollment.
Participate in the FC CAN entry and outreach team meetings to share information, coordinate service delivery, and problem-solve complex cases.
Perform other duties as assigned.