Shelter Support Worker (Casual)

Purpose Society; New Westminster; On-site; CAD 31,000 - 44,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Personal vehicle required

Job summary

Purpose Society is seeking a Shelter Support Worker to staff a New Westminster shelter, providing safe accommodation for both men and women. The role emphasizes housing people with care, including those who may be dealing with substances or mental health challenges.

You will handle client intake, ongoing support, data entry, housekeeping, and safety tasks, working under the Shelter Coordinator. This casual position requires reliability and a compassionate approach to vulnerable populations.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 education plus two years of shelter-related experience with vulnerable populations.
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office; familiarity with HIFIS.
• Must be non-judgmental with knowledge of addiction, mental health, and harm reduction.

Responsibilities

• Conduct client intake, assess needs, and assist with service planning and reporting.
• Perform administrative tasks such as data entry and supply management.
• Assist with housekeeping, meal prep, and maintaining a safe shelter environment.
• Respond to emergencies, patrol the shelter, and address safety hazards.
• Coordinate with staff to support clients in finding housing or work.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Stress management

Non-judgmental approach

Harm reduction knowledge

Basic computer skills

HIFIS familiarity

Office suite knowledge

Education

Grade 12 plus two years shelter experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

HIFIS

Job description

Shelter Support Worker (Casual)

Work Site: 502 Front Street Mews, New Westminster V3M 1B8

Job Type: Casual (Weekday and Weekend availability)

Salary: $27.00/hour

Shifts: 3:00 pm – 11:00 pm / 11:00 pm – 7:00 am

Who We Are

Purpose Society is a community-based multi-service organization dedicated to delivering comprehensive programs for children, youth, and families. We focus on enhancing well-being, strengthening family functioning, and promoting personal responsibility through a client-centered approach. Our services are provided in a safe, respectful environment that values diversity and community connection.

The Opportunity

The Purpose Society is seeking a passionate and committed Shelter Support Workers to staff a shelter in New Westminster that will provide accommodation for both men and women. The emphasis of the shelter will be on housing folks safely and in a caring manner. Shelter clients may be using substances, experiencing mental illness, and other health issues. Shelter Support Workers will take on various responsibilities as outlined below and provide education and referrals when appropriate. Shelter Support Workers report to the Shelter Coordinator

What You’ll Do

• Perform all required client intake procedures, including client needs assessment, service planning, developing action plans, prepare reports
• Perform administrative tasks such as data entry, supply management, building management
• Perform basic housekeeping such as cleaning, laundry, meal preparation, dishwashing, and related duties
• Perform biohazard remediation, overdose response, and all other related duties
• Closely supervise all clients and maintain a safe and secure shelter environment, including, but not limited to patrolling shelter, identifying, mitigating, and / or eliminating occupational health and safety hazards
• Maintain cleanliness and safety standards
• Coordinate with other shelter staff to address client concerns
• Support clients to find housing by making a referral, finding work, or pursuing other goals that will benefit the client.
• Work independently, if necessary, but also within a team.
• Take charge of any emergency situation and follow designated protocols.
• Must be reliable and committed to helping others

What We Are Looking For

Qualifications

• Grade 12 education plus two years of recent shelter work or related experience working with vulnerable population
• Intermediate computer skills (Microsoft Office proficient, familiar with HIFIS)
• Ability to work with marginalized and challenging adults
• Must be non-judgmental and have knowledge about addiction, mental health, and harm reduction
• Ability to take direction, work independently and in a team setting
• Must be able to manage stress and deal with difficult situations
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Understands and maintains professional boundaries with both clients and other workers

Physical Requirements

• Must be physically and mentally able to be on your feet for long periods, take on physical tasks and work in a fast-paced environment
• Able to safely lift and carry heavy loads (approximately 40 lbs.) without risking physical injury or aggravating pre-existing medical conditions

Additional Information

• Personal vehicle required on occasion

Required

• 3 Professional references from supervisors
• Criminal record check
• Valid First Aid Certificate (Basic Emergency with CPR-A or equivalent)
• Valid Food Safe Certificate

Why Work With Us

Join our mission-driven organization and help create positive change in people’s lives. By working with us, you’ll be part of a dedicated team that:

• Provides essential services to vulnerable populations
• Fosters personal growth and healthy decision-making
• Contributes to community well-being in the Lower Mainland

If you are passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a dynamic, values-driven team, the Lower Mainland Purpose Society for Youth and Families is the place for you.