Shelter Support Worker

**Lower Mainland Purpose Society for Youth and Families (Purpose Society)**

**Position**:Shelter Support Worker

**Work Site**: 502 Front Street, New Westminster

**Salary**: $27.00 / hour

**Job Type: Part-time Permanent (Weekends)**

**Hours**: 14 hours per week, 5:00pm - 12:00am or 6:00am - 1:00pm

Reports to: Shelter Coordinator and Purpose Executive Director

**Who We Are**

Purpose Society is a community-based multi-service organization dedicated to delivering comprehensive programs for children, youth, and families. We focus on enhancing well-being, strengthening family functioning, and promoting personal responsibility through a client-centered approach. Our services are provided in a safe, respectful environment that values diversity and community connection.

**The Opportunity**

We are seeking a passionate and committed Shelter Support Worker who will take on various responsibilities in order to support the vulnerable adult population at the shelter. The Purpose Shelter operates 20 hours a day, from 5:00 pm to 1:00 pm, 7 days a week. The shelter currently provides a cot, linen, dinner and breakfast to approximately 50 individuals per night.

**What You'll Do**
- Perform all required client intake procedures, including client needs assessment, service planning, developing action plans, prepare reports
- Perform administrative tasks such as data entry, supply management, building management
- Perform basic housekeeping such as cleaning, laundry, and meal preparation, and all other related duties
- Closely supervise all clients and maintain a safe and secure shelter environment, including, but not limited to patrolling shelter, identifying, mitigating, and / or eliminating occupational health and safety hazards
- Maintain cleanliness and safety standards
- Coordinate with other shelter staff to address client concerns
- Support clients to find housing by making a referral, finding work, or pursuing other goals that will benefit the client.
- Work independently, if necessary, but also within a team.
- Take charge of any emergency situation and follow designated protocols.
- Must be reliable and committed to helping others

**What We Are Looking For**

**Qualifications**:

- Grade 12 education plus two years of recent shelter work or related experience working with vulnerable population
- Ability to work with marginalized and challenging adults
- Must be non-judgmental and have knowledge about addiction, mental health, and harm reduction

**Job Skills and Abilities**:

- Intermediate computer skills (Microsoft Office proficient, familiar with HIFIS)
- Highly organized with strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Overdose recognition and response training
- Knowledge of common drugs and their effects
- Understands and maintains boundaries with both clients and other workers
- Ability to lift and carry up to 40lbs.
- Ability to work with and collaborate in a team setting to produce excellent results
- Ability to maintain a non-judgmental and non-stigmatizing approach is required
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and in stressful situations
- Ability and willingness to work with a client-centered approach
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills

**Physical Requirements**:

- Must be physically and mentally able to be on your feet for long periods, take on physical and housekeeping tasks, and work in a fast-paced environment
- Able to safely lift and carry heavy loads (approximately 40 lbs.) without risking physical injury or aggravating pre-existing medical conditions

**Required**:

- 3 Professional references from supervisors
- Criminal record check
- Valid First Aid Certificate (OFA1 or equivalent)

**Why Work With Us**

Join our mission-driven organization and help create positive change in people's lives. By working with us, you'll be part of a dedicated team that:

- Provides essential services to vulnerable populations
- Fosters personal growth and healthy decision-making
- Contributes to community well-being in the Lower Mainland

Your work will directly support our programs, which are made possible through generous donations and community support. If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a dynamic, values-driven team, the Lower Mainland Purpose Society for Youth and Families is the place for you.

**How to Apply**

**Job Type**: Part-time

Pay: $27.00 per hour

Expected hours: 14 per week

**Benefits**:

- Casual dress
- Company events

Flexible language requirement:

- French not required

Schedule:

- Every Weekend

**Education**:

- Secondary School (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

- First Aid Certification (preferred)

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-02-20
Expected start date: 2025-02-22