Housing Navigator

Housing Navigator Job Summary

The Housing Navigator will provide housing search services to help homeless or at-risk individuals obtain safe and permanent housing. This role involves conducting housing searches, working with outside landlords and community providers, and assisting clients with applications and paperwork.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide housing search assistance to clients referred by MassHealth Accountable Care Organizations or physician practices.

Make referrals to supportive housing programs with care management resources and rental assistance as necessary.

Conduct a housing barriers assessment with each client and work with the client and case management team to develop and carry out a rehousing plan.

Develop relationships with local landlords to foster placement opportunities for disadvantaged homeless individuals.

Provide assistance and advocacy with the subsidy application process for clients on fixed incomes.

Assess housing and supportive services needs to determine which short-term financial assistance programs may be available to rapidly re-house the individual.

Help clients to obtain all necessary documentation and complete paperwork for housing related applications.

Work with client to complete applications for financial assistance programs such as RAFT, ESG or other transitional funding programs as they are developed by DHCD, as well as accessing available community funds or FEMA assistance programs.

Evaluate need and process requests for client assistance funds such as first, last and security deposit, furniture, linens, etc.

Evaluate need and process applications for medically necessary home modifications such as shower grab bars, refrigerators, air conditioners, air filters, ramps, etc.

Assist clients with completing housing applications and negotiating leases with landlords.

Accompany clients as they view rooms or apartments as needed. Assist them in preparing for the application and interview process.

Collaborate with CGRC staff to provide initial information and referrals for community-based resources such as education, job-training, fuel assistance, behavioral health, food, transportation, legal advice, medical care, and other services.

Participate as a member of the CGRC team; attend all staff meetings and other required meetings.

Maintain client files to include completed assessments, re-housing plans, referrals made, and services accessed.

Gather required data and demographic information and enter into designated data base.

Communicate with clients through phone calls, email and face-to-face meetings either at the SMOC offices or offsite meetings near the client's location.

Engage all clients by understanding and addressing their needs whether within or outside the scope of work.

Maintain confidentiality of client, employee and agency information in accordance with federal and state laws and funder requirements.

Ensure compliance with program/department, agency and/or funder requirements, as well as SMOC policies & procedures.

Requirements:

BA preferred and/or 2 years relevant work experience in social services or housing services with low-income, minority and disabled individuals preferred.

A valid driver's license and reliable transportation is required.

Working Conditions:

As part of the responsibilities of this position, the Housing Navigator will have direct or incidental contact with clients served by SMOC in various programs funded or administered through the Executive Office of Health and Human Services. A successful background check is required. We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm. 35 hours per week.

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