Housing Specialist

Position DescriptionYonge Street Mission (YSM) is a vibrant, non-profit Christian organization leading a collective movement to end chronic poverty in Toronto.

Since , we’ve worked to transform the lives of people living with poverty, going beyond immediate needs by offering wrap-around support via holistic programs and services, and a pathway which enables street-involved youth, families in need, adults experiencing poverty and vulnerable communities to move from surviving to thriving.

To make this happen, we are passionate about investing in the people we work with, and look for a diverse range of staff who are key for us to advance our mission : Christians who have a heart for neighbours in need, a desire to transform the lives of our community members, and who believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect.

If you are inspired by our vision and feel a true call to contribute to YSM’s work, we’d love to hear from you.What We Offer : As a staff member at YSM, some of the things you can look forward to include a values-based and highly collaborative and engaging work environment with a high value on staff’s mental health and well-being;

meaningful, innovative and impactful work, with opportunities to make a difference in the lives of children, families, and the community, as well as flexible hybrid work arrangements.

Our competitive Total Rewards compensation package also includes Group RRSP matching, annual leave and paid personal days, comprehensive health and dental care coverage, an Employee and Family Assistance Program that includes counselling services by Christian professionals, and numerous other perks.

The Opportunity : We are seeking a full-time Housing Specialist to support our Housing department, as we work to achieve our ambitious goal to end chronic poverty in Toronto in one generation.

Responsibilities : Reporting to the Manager of Housing Services, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following : Having a strong understanding of housing-related challenges in Toronto.

Offer housing services and assistance to vulnerable youth and be available for drop in services and inquiresCompetence in helping participants with their housing system navigation related to applying, acquiring and retention of housing.

Provision of advocacy supports with : eviction prevention, landlords and social service agencies (incl. OW; ODSP, Access to Housing).

Finding / delivering workshops, programs and activities to meet the implicit / explicit needs of potential housing clients.

Utilizing and navigating community resources, to provide maximum housing support and advocacy, through an effective case management lens, with the goal of supporting the successful transition of clients to long-term housing.

Assisting in the completion of applications to Access to Housing, TCHC, Central Intake, Special Priority and other relevant applicationsMaintaining a holistic framework when assisting clients experiencing poverty, with their housing needs and objectives.

Supporting the housing team, and a part of the wrap around program model within YSM. Qualifications : The successful candidate will have the following skills and training : Demonstrated personal commitment to YSM’s mission, values, and guiding principles, and a passion to support the three population groups we serve - Adults Experiencing Chronic Poverty, Street Youth and Families in Need.

Minimum SSW / CSW education or equivalent.2-3 years of experience in the Toronto housing landscape is an asset.Knowledge of and experience working with youth homelessness is an assetWorking knowledge of the Landlord and Tenant Board / Residential Tenancies Act, Shelter Standards, Housing Best Practices and the overall Toronto housing landscape.

A strong understanding of poverty dynamics in Toronto / GTA.A demonstrable capacity to provide client-centric interaction with under-housed, marginalized individuals.

Flexible and dynamic team player, with an ability to work with a high degree of independence.Strong technical abilities including budgeting, technical writing, and organizational skills is an asset.

Strong verbal communication and networking skills.Effectively managing time and multiple responsibilities.CPI, UMAB, First Aid & CPR Training is an asset Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends;

a police check will be required. Deadline for Application : Until position is filled Start Date : June While we appreciate all responses, only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

Please note that YSM do not use any form of artificial intelligence (AI) at any stage of the recruitment process. These stages include screening and shortlisting, assessment and selection.

Learn more about YSM at Date Posted : May 14,