Shelter Support Worker

Main Street Project Main Street Project operates a low-barrier emergency shelter offering 120-bed facility and drop-in space with a harm reduction focus, open 365 days a year. Our services are free to use and are offered on a first come, first served basis.

Our drop-in offers food, beverages, a safe place to use the bathroom and/or take a shower, a safe place to be during extreme weather, the only daytime safe sleeping space for folks who sleep during the day, and access to clothing, harm reduction supplies and casework.
- In accordance with Main Street Project Inc.’s (MSP) mission, goals, policies and procedures, the Support Worker functions as a member of a team in providing services designed to assist and support marginalized individuals in meeting their basic needs, and to ensure their safety and well-being.

The Support Worker maintains the core values of MSP regarding harm reduction, choice, equity, and diversity and encourages individuals in capacity building. They work with MSP participants in a manner that encourages self-awareness, self-worth, increased independence, and without judgment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide support without judgement for participants accessing Main Street Project’s programs and services
- Assist participants in planning, problem-solving, and addressing immediate needs
- Assist in client-centered care plans and provide individual support as required for case management
- Ensure participants understand program area processes and expectations
- Respond to emergency situations; assessing, intervening, and documenting critical incidents
- Monitor the physical safety of participants to ensure they receives medical attention when required
- Ensure participants are informed of internal and external resources, services, and programs and if needed, advocate for clients to access services
- Maintain accurate and confidential electronic and file records
- Collect and submit agency-required statistics on time and with accuracy
- Maintain cleanliness of the program area by following routine cleaning schedules each shift
- QUALIFICATIONS
- Relevant education and experience working in the field of human services preferably with adults experiencing homelessness, mental health and substance use issues
- Experience working in an emergency shelter, outreach or residential environment
- Post secondary education in the field of addictions and mental health is considered an asset.
- Ability to work with a client-centred care philosophy
- Knowledge of the effects of poverty and the determinants to health
- Ability to work collaboratively in a mutli-disciplinary team
- Knowledge in the addiction and mental health fields
- Knowledge of Indigenous culture
- Excellent interpersonal skills and communication skills, both oral and written
- An understanding/experience in working with culturally diverse populations
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Experience working with HIFIS considered an asset
- Satisfactory Criminal Record Check with Clear Vulnerable Sector Search and a Clear Adult Abuse Registry Check are required. Employee is responsible for any service charges incurred.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
- Ability to stand or walk for long periods of time. Physical tasks include crouching, bending, lifting, reaching and first aid for participants
- Ability to work with individuals who use substances and/or experience mental health issues
- Main Street Project recognizes the importance of building a workforce that is reflective of the community it serves, where culture, language and perspectives drive a high standard of care and service. Therefore, preference will be given to Indigenous people and those who reflect the people/population we serve.

Applicants are asked to self-declare in their cover letter along with describing how they meet the above qualifications. We thank all applicants but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.