Eviction Prevention/rehousing Counsellor - Greater Toronto Area, Canada - The Housing Help Centre

Description

Job Posting:
Eviction prevention/Rehousing Counsellor


Organization:
The Housing Help Centre


Location:
York Region


Type:
Full-Time


Application Deadline:
November 1, 2023


About Us:

The Housing Help Centre is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to promoting housing stability and preventing evictions in the York Region.

Our mission is to create a community where every resident has access to safe and affordable housing. We are excited to announce a new opportunity to join our team as a Housing Stability Project Coordinator.


Position Overview:

As an Eviction prevention/Rehousing Counsellor, you will play a crucial role in our mission to prevent evictions, provide mediation services between landlords and tenants at risk of eviction, and facilitate rehousing for families in need throughout the York Region.

This role is instrumental in raising awareness about mediation services, building strong relationships between landlords and tenants, and ensuring that our clients have access to the support they need to maintain stable housing.

You will report to the Manager, Housing and Settlement Programs, York Region


Responsibilities:


1.


Outreach and Education:

• Organize and lead workshops to educate community members on tenant rights and responsibilities, in light of changes and updates to the Residential Tenancy Act.
• Conduct community outreach to inform residents about mediation services can prevent eviction.
• Design and distribute informational materials on steps to take when facing eviction threats.

2.


Mediation and Settlement:

• Mediate and facilitate discussions between landlords and tenants to resolve disputes and prevent evictions.
• Use the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) as a guide to help parties reach agreements and prevent conflicts.
• Collaborate with landlords and tenants to regularize tenant agreements and ensure RTA coverage.

3.


Referrals and Budget Management:

• Refer clients to relevant services like the Rent Bank and Furniture Bank when financial assistance is needed.
• Refer clients to the Community Legal Clinic of York Region.
• Develop and deliver budget management workshops to help clients better manage their finances.

4.


Rehousing Support:

• Identify suitable housing options based on affordability, availability, and client needs.
• Assist clients in interviewing with landlords, explaining their rental history, and securing housing.
• Continue to provide budget management support to rehoused clients.
• Provide ongoing support for up to 6 months where necessary.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (Social Work, Community Development, etc.) or equivalent experience.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to mediate and facilitate discussions effectively.
• Knowledge of the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) is an asset.
• Previous experience in housing stability, social services, or a related field is preferred.
• Familiarity with social services and nonprofit organizations in the Region of York.
• Knowledge of commonly spoken languages in the York region is an asset.

Deadline for Application:
November 1, 2023


Job Types:
Full-time, Fixed term contract

Contract length: 12 months


Salary:
$42,500.00-$45,000.00 per year


Benefits:

• Dental care
• Employee assistance program
• Extended health care
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Education:

• DCS / DEC (required)

Willingness to travel:

• 50% (required)

Work Location:
In person