Community and Family Services Worker

Who We Are

For more than 130 years, The Salvation Army has served people in need in communities across Canada and Bermuda. Building on our roots as a world-wide Christian church, each year we help more than 2 million people, providing necessities such as food, clothing and shelter. In addition, we support people experiencing unemployment, addiction and family challenges. We continually adapt and innovate to meet emerging needs and live out our mission, vision and values of hope, service, dignity and stewardship. As a faith- and values-based organization, we hire and serve people of all backgrounds and walks of life - there is a place for everyone to belong here.

Mission Statement

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.

Job Description:

Position Purpose summary:  

The Community and 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.

Accountabilities:

Client Services and Programs

• Conduct initial intake assessment to determine immediate needs and supports needed by the client.

• Provide emergency assistance services, i.e., food, clothing, household needs in accordance with policy

• Organize, plan, and deliver seasonal and special programs as required, i.e., Christmas Hamper, Christmas Kettles, Food Drive, Backpack, and various other programs etc.; ensure that ministry objectives are accomplished and that a spiritual focus is applied to all programs in coordination with CFS Manager.  

• Oversee the activities of the food bank, organize, and ensure that the food bank is tidy and clean, adequate stock levels, sort and process donated goods and process clients through the food bank.

• Network and refer to The Salvation Army, government, and community social service providers to coordinate resources for the benefit of clients and program when necessary.

Supervision

• Support, assist, supervise, train and schedule volunteers, and demonstrate work methods; ensure they work together to achieve the purpose of the organization and enhance the ministries of The Salvation Army when required.

• May assist in the development of strategies and recommendations for volunteer development.

• In consultation with the supervisor may organize regular meetings with volunteers.

Finance and Administration

• Ensure that Ministry Unit policies and procedures are followed for the safe/secure handling of all monetary donations received and appropriate documentation of gift cards and various vouchers is maintained, i.e., clothing and household goods Thrift Store vouchers.  

• Maintain written records, logs of activities, including activity reports and statistical information

• Periodically review program assistance guidelines with supervisor.

• Maintain accurate records of client information in Link2Feed and on The Salvation Army’s computer system while maintaining confidentiality.

• In coordination with CFS Manager or designate receive financial and food donations in compliance with Salvation Army policy. 

Health and Safety

• 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 related duties as required.

Working Conditions:

• This is a regular full-time position based on 37.5 hours per week.

• Schedule may vary according to requirements of responsibilities – infrequent evening and weekend work may be required , when needed.

• 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 the job requires the ability to lift/move up to 50lbs. with no assistance from others, reach, bend, twist, and stoop frequently, work in a standing or sitting position for long periods, and un-packing delivery vehicles.

• This position may require frequent travel up to 20% to various locations throughout Perth County. Required to use a program vehicle when appropriate.

Normal Working Hours - The Supervisor will set the hours of work and work schedule as per operational requirements Monday to Friday.  Normal hours are between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and includes a ½ hour unpaid meal break.

The above responsibilities must be performed in keeping with The Salvation Army’s Mission, Vision and Values, in a professional manner, upholding our code of conduct.

Education, Qualifications and Certifications:

• Completion of a formal post-secondary program of two academic years in Social Services or a related field of study.

• Ability and/or willingness to provide or obtain a Safe Food Handlers Certification.

• Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Certificate preferred.

Experience and Skilled Knowledge

• Minimum of two (2) years of prior related experience, including experience working with multi-barriered persons with mental health issues

• Knowledge of community-based resources and experience networking with government and social service agencies.

• Valid Ontario Class “G” Driver’s License, own vehicle, and insurance, a current driver’s abstract that it satisfactory to The Salvation Army, in its sole discretion, is required.

Alternative combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Skills and Capabilities:

• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and a strong sense of integrity with professional ethics.

• Attention to detail, problem solving and analytical skills.

• Self-motivated/disciplined.

• Lead by example, by demonstrating a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn and be flexible.

• Exhibit good listening skills, have strong oral/written communication skills.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and adaptability.

• Ability to exercise diplomacy, tact, and demonstrate good judgment.

• Good computer skills and experience using Microsoft Office Suite

• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team with supervision in a multi-faceted environment.

• Demonstrated patience and compassion to work with challenging and/or emotionally dependent individuals

• Treat the property of The Salvation Army with due care and caution.

• Honest, courteous, and punctual; represent the organization in a positive, professional, and engaging manner.

• Ability to prioritize, organize and manage multiple tasks; the ability to complete assignments and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.

• Ability and willingness 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.

Compensation:

The target hiring range for this position is $20.09 to $25.11 with a maximum of $30.13.

Placement in the salary range will be based on factors such as market conditions, internal equity, and candidate experience, skills, and qualifications relevant to the role.

The Salvation Army will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please email [email protected] if you have a need for any accommodation and we will be pleased to discuss this with you.