(GCFP) Outreach Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY: The GCFP Outreach Specialist provides direct crisis services to the homeless population served by the Grand Central Food Program as well works to engage and provide direct services to the street homeless population. The GCFP Outreach Specialist provides services including but not limited to, providing appropriate referrals and advocacy particularly in regards to immediate needs and shelter related issues, as well as providing assistance in obtaining and retaining public benefits and entitlements, and assisting with access to health, mental health, and substance use/dependence services. The position works collaboratively across teams and organizations to achieve this goal. The GCFP Outreach Specialist performs job duties consistent with the mission and goals of the Coalition for the Homeless. 

DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Program Assistant shall:

1) provide outreach services to street homeless clients served by the Grand Central Food Van at least three times per week; 

2) act as liaison between the Grand Central Food Program and the street homeless clients by encouraging them to avail of services offered by the Coalition for the Homeless and other service providers; 

3) work to develop networks with outside service providers that could serve to enhance the resources available to meet client needs;

4) educate and support clients in the process of advocating for their shelter rights and benefits;

5) escort street homeless clients to relevant outside appointments when necessary in order to advocate for clients and to ensure that appropriate benefits are received;

6) Engage in community outreach efforts to identify housing opportunities.

7) prepare and review HRA 2010e and other appropriate housing applications

8) Drive our GCFP vehicles while conducting outreach/serving meals.

9) perform all other duties as may be assigned by the Director of Emergency Relief Services or designee.

QUALIFICATIONS: BA/BS in social work, human services or health discipline is strongly preferred. Prior case/care management experience, especially in a supportive housing program, working with individuals who are homeless or formerly homeless, persons living with mental illness, struggling with substance use, and/or living with HIV/AIDS strongly desired. Self-starters, able to prioritize multiple tasks and work independently are also strongly preferred. Fluency in Spanish is strongly preferred. 

REPORTS TO: Director of Emergency Relief Services

Salary range: $50,000-55,000