The Housing and Homeless Caseworker and Social Service help is responsible for all aspects of providing hands-on assistance to those struggling with homelessness and housing insecurity. They will also provide back-up help to the social work coordinator and soup kitchen coordinator to fill in as necessary with other social service programs operating at the Peekskill Salvation Army. They must be willing to work with people from various backgrounds and language groups while working to fulfill the mission of The Salvation Army.
- Set appointments and meet with clients experiencing housing insecurity and homelessness to assess their needs.
- Work with clients to better their situation and help them get out of poverty and/or homelessness or to significantly improve their current situation.
- Work with landlords to pay back rent or the first month's rent.
- Intake of applications on new clients and ensure it is processed through the Community Service Social Service portal.
- Update applications and case files on clients as needed
- Prepare monthly statistics for housing programs and help Social Service Coordinator with other social service stats.
- Help with food pantry, hygiene closet, green thumb, soup kitchen and any other social service program as needed.
- Fill in for Social Service Coordinator or Soup Kitchen Coordinator as assigned when they are away.
- Schedule and organize every aspect of educational classes including but not limited to arranging a teacher, advertising for class, set-up and clean up from classes.
- With Office Coordinator, ensure Social Media feeds include information about programs you are running.
- Ensure there are supplies and clothing for homeless population, restocking as needed.
- Assist and oversee as assigned all seasonal social service programs such as Christmas distribution, Community Cares, Camp, Back to School Distribution, etc.
- Communicate to Commanding Officer any needs/concerns involving assigned work
- Organize and keep all files and records pertaining to program in order. Provide data requested in order to maintain or apply for grants.
- When needed, answer phones and take messages in the main office, making referrals and providing information as needed.
- Any other applicable services as assigned by Corps Officer.
- Candidate must have a high school diploma and a minimum of 2 years of experience in Social Services.
- Degree or Classwork in Social Work a plus.
- Must have a positive work history.
- Must be a responsible, respectful, positive role model, and be able to follow instructions.
- Proficiency in computer programs such as Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, and others as required.
- Must be well organized and prepared to be sensitive to individuals cases.
- Responsible for overseeing casework for the Homeless and Housing program, as well as assisting in the social service programs as needed.
- The ability to speak Spanish is highly recommended and preferred.