Emergency Financial Assistant

Overview Catholic Charities of Buffalo is seeking a full time Emergency Financial Assistant who serves as a mobile worker supporting individuals and families across Chautauqua County by responding to emergency basic‑needs situations and helping clients navigate the 1115 Waiver Program. The role includes providing services at scheduled times in our Dunkirk office and in the community, particularly in areas with limited resources or where clients face barriers such as disability, age, or lack of transportation. The worker also delivers assistance at mobile locations such as community hubs and provider fairs, offering immediate support, sharing information about Catholic Charities services, mapping local resources, and collaborating with community partners. Additional duties include conducting screenings and intake assessments for clients seeking Emergency Assistance by phone or email and providing coverage for EA staff at other sites as needed. With training through the WNYICC region, the worker helps clients pursue longer‑term financial stability rather than one‑time aid. Job Responsibilities Provide professional and compassionate case management by accurately assessing client needs, engaging in problem‑solving conversations, supporting self‑resolution when possible, and offering immediate assistance or referrals when needed (by phone, email, or in person). Document all client interactions in WNYICC or the Case Management system, tracking each contact by geographic area and presenting need. Provide empathetic, culturally respectful screenings for social determinants of health, whether by phone, virtually, or in person. Process daily screens and referral intakes, including client calls, documentation, and insurance or eligibility verification. Receive, prioritize, and triage screenings and referrals that require connection to community‑based services. Manage incoming referrals to ensure timely and successful linkages between clients and appropriate service providers. Document progress, actions taken, and all referral activity in the WNY Integrated Care IT platform as required. Maintain clear and supportive communication with clients and referral partners to ensure referrals are accepted, completed, or redirected when necessary. Handle client questions and concerns with excellent customer service, empathy, and patience. Participate in the WNY Integrated Care Screening/Navigation Workgroup. Provide excellent customer service across all interactions--phone, in person, and email. Use WNY Integrated Care social care technology and transportation platforms to support client needs. Seek opportunities to simplify and enhance the client experience. Follow all policies and procedures related to HIPAA and federal/state/local regulations, including Fraud, Waste, and Abuse requirements. Verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States as required by federal law. Maintain and continually update a comprehensive list of community resources and service providers related to basic needs in Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties. Participate in local coalitions and contribute to collaborative community efforts. Develop strong working knowledge of FEMA, TANF, SNAP, HEAP, SSI/SSD, and other benefit programs to screen and enroll clients at any location. Assist with general office operations, including answering and returning calls, copying, faxing, preparing documents, supporting staff and building safety, billing, data entry, case management, and other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Associate degree in Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, Gerontology, or a related field required; Bachelor's degree preferred. Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience will be considered. Minimum of two (2) years' experience connecting clients with community‑based services. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work respectfully with diverse populations, including individuals experiencing poverty, homelessness, severe mental illness, or trauma. Able to manage challenging behaviors with empathy and professionalism. Experience in care coordination, care management, community‑based services, or as a Community Health Worker. Background in community, healthcare, public health, non‑profit, or related settings. Highly detail‑oriented with excellent organizational and multitasking abilities. Knowledge of HIPAA regulations and ability to maintain confidentiality in compliance with all privacy requirements. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain program guidelines and complex information clearly. Strong critical‑thinking and interviewing skills, with the ability to ask insightful questions to understand client needs and identify appropriate supports. Knowledge of social work principles, trauma‑informed care, solution‑focused problem‑solving, and cultural humility strongly preferred. Familiarity with community resources, social service systems, and human service providers in Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties preferred. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and comfort using electronic platforms, databases, and case‑management systems. Strong time‑management skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Ability to communicate effectively in Spanish preferred. Must possess a valid driver's license and reliable transportation. What We Offer 35 hours per week 13 paid holidays 25 PTO days per year (pro‑rated first year) Comprehensive health, dental & vision coverage for full‑time employees Employer‑paid life insurance (full‑time) Ancillary benefit offerings Flexible Spending Account (FSA) option Health Savings Account (HSA) option with HDHP enrollment Employer‑paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 403(b) Retirement Plan (eligible after first pay period) with employer contribution after six months Applicant must reside in New York State to be considered. Compensation range may vary based on factors including but not limited to skills, education, location and experience. Apply today at: As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Catholic Charities of Buffalo is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic. Catholic Charities of Buffalo will make reasonable accommodations for known physical or mental limitations of otherwise qualified employees and applicants with disabilities, unless such accommodations would impose an undue hardship on the operation of the business. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr