Shelter Client Support & Harm-Reduction Specialist

Parkdale Queen West CHC; Toronto; On-site; CAD 56,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Group Benefits

HOOPP

Job summary

Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre (PQWCHC) is seeking a Client Support Worker for the LAUNCH program. The role focuses on administrative support and direct client tasks in a short-term capacity, collaborating with harm reduction teams to meet project objectives.

Candidates will build rapport with shelter clients and handle referrals. The CSW may assist in in-situ harm reduction, MAP, and medication reconciliation, with flexibility for evenings, overnights, and weekends as needed.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline or significant health promotion/community development experience.
• 3–5 years of community-based experience with harm reduction and supportive counselling.
• Experience with drug overdose response and first aid.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Advocacy, crisis intervention, prevention, and negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of sheltering systems and ability to navigate them professionally.
• Ability to travel across Toronto.
• Ability to work with multi-disciplinary teams.
• Ability to maintain databases and produce basic reports.
• Proficiency with computers and common software.
• Proficiency in a language other than English and lived experience are assets.

Responsibilities

• Maintain an atmosphere of respect and safety for clients and provide brief social and health navigation.
• Conduct crisis de-escalation and support while maintaining boundaries.
• Provide backup to the Overdose Prevention Support Worker and handle administrative duties and distribution of harm reduction gear.

Skills

Crisis intervention

Excellent communication

Advocacy

System navigation

Computer skills

Team collaboration

Willingness to travel

Education

Undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline

Job description

Parkdale Queen West Community Health Centre (PQWCHC) is seeking a Client Support Worker for the LAUNCH program. The role focuses on administrative support and direct client tasks in a short-term capacity, collaborating with harm reduction teams to meet project objectives.

Candidates will build rapport with shelter clients and handle referrals. The CSW may assist in in-situ harm reduction, MAP, and medication reconciliation, with flexibility for evenings, overnights, and weekends as needed.