Relief Family Services Worker

The Family Services Worker assists individuals and families who are seeking aid and assistance from, or have been referred to, The Salvation Army. This position also provides support to the Food Bank Program and other programs provided by the Community and Family Services.

Client Services:

• Conduct initial intake application and screen clients for LEAP, OESP, general emergency assistance, including food, clothing, household needs, referrals etc.
• Through exercising empathetic care, assist individuals to determine an appropriate and mutually agreed upon goals; facilitates effective problem-solving behaviors of the client/family.
• Refer clients to Community & Family Services Director or Corps Officer for pastoral assistance.
• Maintain food bank stock, cleanliness, tidiness, and organization of food bank area.
• Participate in appropriate food bank ordering process, i.e., submitting food order, receiving/reviewing food order, and storing all products properly.
• Assist, oversee and/or coordinate various Community and Family Services tasks i.e., Christmas Food and Toy Hampers application process, packing and distribution, food, and toy drives throughout the year.
• Periodically review assistance guidelines with Community & Family Services Director.
• Ensure that all clients are treated with dignity and respect.

Program Services:

• Assist and support the organization and implementation of fundraising events, i.e., Christmas Appeal, Christmas Kettles, etc.
• May be required to pick up community donations of food etc.
• May be required to recruit, orientate, train, direct and supervise food bank volunteers.
• Work with other family services staff to maintain, promote and improve the profile of The Salvation Army in the community.
• Promote Summer Camp program and complete camper applications.

Administration:

• General administrative duties, answering phones, directing inquiries, photocopying, faxing, scanning documents, etc.
• Maximize utilization of all computerized management programs, i.e., Link2feed program and/or external programs as necessary.
• Maintain accurate records of client information on computerized systems while maintaining confidentiality and prepare/provide statistical reports and monthly statistics as necessary for DHQ reporting, (SAMIS)
• Maintain information in confidence as required.

Health and Safety

• Complete janitorial duties i.e., cleaning floors, washrooms, etc.
• Ensure that the food bank and area is maintained regarding appearance, condition and safety as recommended by Public Health etc.
• Ensure the safety and comfort of the ministry unit by maintaining cleanliness and food safety etc.
• Work in compliance with OH&S Act and Regulations and abide by The Salvation Army's health and safety policies and procedures.

Perform other position related duties.

Working Conditions:

• This is a casual relief "elect to work" position with no standard weekly hours of work.
• There are no guaranteed hours; work will be offered as per the Community & Family Services hours of operation Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Includes a ½ hour paid meal-break where applicable.
• The Supervisor will set the hours of work and work schedule.
• Working environment is typically in the office in generally agreeable conditions.
• The performance of this work requires reaching, bending, twisting, and stooping frequently, performing work in a standing and sitting position for long periods, unpacking deliveries, and computer keyboarding.
• The working conditions are such that in order to meet the operational needs of the job some flexibility is required as it relates to hours of work.
• Working environment is typically in the office in generally agreeable conditions.
• Ability to lift/move 25 lbs. on a regular basis.

• Completion of a Community College Diploma, Social Services Worker, counselling or equivalent in a related field of study.
• Current, valid Safe Food Handlers Certification or willing to obtain.
• Valid Ontario Class "G" Driver's License, personal vehicle required and insurance, current copy of driver's abstract that is satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion, is required.

Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered.

EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE:

• Minimum of two (2) years of prior related experience, including experience working with multi-barriered persons, individuals with mental health issues a variety of social service programs.
• Knowledge of community-based resources and experience networking with government and social service agencies.

SKILLS AND CAPABILITIES:

• Ensure all clients are treated with dignity and respect.
• Ability to maintain information in confidence and exercise good judgement.
• Able to work independently and participate as an active and responsible team member.
• Exhibit good listening skills, have strong oral/written communication skills and respect authority.
• Self-motivated/disciplined.
• Represent the organization in a positive, professional, and engaging manner.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Demonstrate a high level of integrity, good judgment, and ability to maintain appropriate confidentiality.
• Demonstrated patience and compassion to work with challenging and/or emotionally dependent individuals.
• Ability to learn, adapt, and utilize technology and processes quickly.
• Ability to prioritize, organize and manage multiple tasks; the ability to complete assignments and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• Represent The Salvation Army in a professional, positive, and engaging manner.
• Treat the property of The Salvation Army with due care and caution.
• Ability to undergo applicable screening and background checks successfully that are satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion (i.e., The Salvation Army Abuse Registry) and provide an original copy of a Background check search.
• Ability and willingness to develop an understanding and support for the mission and purpose of The Salvation Army in Canada and its implications as related to position responsibilities.

Interested applicants must respond in writing with a cover letter and resume.

The Salvation Army offers accommodation for applicants with disabilities in its recruitment process. If you are contacted to participate in an interview or screening process, please advise us if you require accommodation.

We thank all applicants, however, only those candidates to be interviewed will be contacted.

You must advise your managing supervisor of your intentions prior to submitting your application.