Drop-In Relief Worker

Position Profile:

The Drop-In Relief Worker provides support to the Drop-In Program by assisting with daily operations, engaging with participants, and creating a safe, inclusive environment for all community members. This role requires a compassionate, adaptable individual committed to helping people with diverse experiences, including homelessness, poverty, food insecurity, and social isolation. The Drop-In Relief Worker will support meal services, help maintain the facility, and engage with program participants to ensure a welcoming and respectful space.

Key Responsibilities

Participant Engagement:

· Greet and build rapport with community members, including seniors, newcomers, and those with lived experiences of poverty, substance use, or homelessness.

· Actively listen to participants, offering emotional support and referrals to internal or external services as needed.

· Demonstrate empathy and respect for participants’ diverse backgrounds and experiences, supporting a non-judgmental, welcoming environment.

Meal Service Support:

· Assist in meal preparation, serving, and cleanup, following food safety and hygiene standards to ensure safe food handling.

· Distribute meals thoughtfully and equitably, serving approximately 360 individuals weekly.

· Approach meal service with a harm reduction lens, creating low-barrier access to nutritious meals.

Facility Maintenance and Cleanliness:

· Maintain cleanliness and organization of the drop-in space, ensuring it is stocked with essential supplies.

· Follow health and safety protocols to keep all areas, including dining and shower facilities, sanitized and safe.

· Prioritize accessibility and dignity in facility upkeep, making the space welcoming for all participants.

· Program Support

· Set up, breakdown, and support workshops and programming on topics such as elder abuse, financial literacy, and community-building.

· Collaborate with volunteers and support staff to enhance program delivery and participant experience.

o Uphold inclusivity and harm reduction principles in program facilitation, ensuring participation from diverse community members.

Conflict Resolution and Crisis Intervention:

· Respond calmly and respectfully to conflicts or crises, following de-escalation protocols to ensure safety.

· Collaborate with the Drop-In Program supervisor and other staff to address issues, document incidents, and provide follow-up support when necessary.

· Implement harm reduction strategies to minimize risks and respect participants' autonomy in conflict resolution.

Qualifications

· Experience in Drop-Ins and Food Banks, community-based or social services settings, especially with marginalized or vulnerable groups.

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and connections with diverse individuals.

· Understanding of social issues impacting vulnerable populations, such as food insecurity, housing instability, mental health, and substance use.

· Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with flexibility to adapt to participants' and program needs.

· First Aid and CPR certification, or willingness to obtain.

· Familiarity with culturally diverse communities, inclusivity, and anti-oppression principles.

Working Conditions:

· Relief Saturdays.

· Requires development of activities.

Staff 1: Mon - Wed 11:30am - 6pm 18hr/week
Staff 2: Thurs - 11:30am - 6pm, Fri - 11am - 6pm, Sat- 8am - 4pm 20hr/week