Overnight Shelter Support Staff

POSITION TYPE   TERM

JOB SUMMARY

This position will work as part of a team to provide direct support to community members in Siloam Mission’s low-barrier emergency winter overnight shelter (Winter Pop Up) using trauma informed, behaviour based, and culturally safe practices. The Support Staff will work twelve (12) hour overnight shifts with a focus on safety and meeting the immediate needs of participants.

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide direct support to community members accessing Siloam Mission’s Winter Pop Up shelter services;
• Assist community members with their needs where possible and within the scope of the Winter Pop Up (e.g. responding to questions, connecting with supports, providing nutrition and clothing);
• Prepare and complete incident reports, daily logs and other required documents and reports;
• Ensure the safety and security of all individuals, including personal safety, by actively monitoring, assessing, and confirming that safety measures are followed;
• Demonstrate harm reduction practices;
• Incorporate a Housing-Focused approach when working with community members;
• Use a Behaviour-based approach while providing support to community members, and Restorative Practices when dealing with behavioural issues;
• Respond appropriately to emergency situations that occur within the Winter Pop Up;
• Perform general housekeeping duties, such as cleaning floors, cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms, emptying garbage cans, etc.;
• Participate in and complete all mandatory and recommended training as per Siloam Mission standards;
• Adhere to all Siloam Mission policies and procedures;
• Represent Siloam Mission in a professional manner through embracing our Mission and Values;
• Confirm community members take all personal belongings and baggage upon exit to ensure readiness for Drop In opening.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Post-secondary diploma in relevant social services or equivalent relevant experience;
• Minimum 1 year experience working effectively with marginalized populations experiencing homelessness, and ability to build trust and rapport with diverse populations;
• Experience working with individuals with mental health struggles and/or addictions an asset;
• Certification in or demonstrated knowledge of Cultural Awareness, Anti-Oppressive Practice, NVCI, ASIST, First Aid, Mental Health First Aid, Trauma Informed best practices a strong asset.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/BEHAVIORS

• Experience supporting individuals who have experienced mental health challenges, addictions and trauma;
• Knowledge of harm reduction practices and ability to work within a harm reduction framework;
• Knowledge of community resources for homelessness, health, mental health and substance use;
• Demonstrated knowledge of cultural awareness, anti-oppressive practice, and trauma-informed best practices, including awareness of colonization and its impact on Indigenous peoples;
• Ability to work respectfully and inclusively with people of diverse abilities, backgrounds, and life situations, while promoting a welcoming and culturally aware environment;
• Skill in interpreting verbal and non-verbal behavior to understand others’ feelings, needs, values, and opinions;
• Demonstrated understanding of the unique issues and barriers affecting those experiencing poverty and homelessness;
• Ability to stay calm and solution-focused during conflict, crisis, emergencies, hostility, or high-pressure situations;
• Warm, empathetic, and patient communication style that builds trust and rapport;
• Exceptional ability to communicate clearly and adapt messages so others can understand quickly and easily;
• Demonstrated understanding of personal space and ability to model appropriate professional boundaries;
• Ability to mitigate and respond to threats to safety and security of staff and community members;
• Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, including quick assessment and response in fast-paced environments;
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to complete accurate documentation and maintain safety and cleanliness standards;
• Proficiency with MS Office and data entry;
• Commitment to completing mandatory or recommended training, as well as ongoing learning.

RELATIONSHIP

• Works closely with Drop-in Staff, Community Members, and various departments of Siloam Mission.

WORKING CONDITION

• Working hours: Shifts are 12 hours overnight (8 p.m. – 8 a.m.) on a rotational schedule. An averaging agreement is in place to ensure a standard 80-hour bi-weekly pay;
• Term from Monday October 20 - March 31 (Winter Pop Up opens November 1);
• Overtime may be offered when necessary;
• Work requires standing, and walking over extended periods of time;
• Periodically lifting of up to 50lbs occasionally;
• Hazardous conditions could include potential violent outbursts from community members toward staff or other community members.

Please send a cover letter and a resume to employerrep@abcentre.org.

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