HOUSING SPECIALIST

Housing Specialist

The CityFHEPS Housing Specialist is responsible for assisting individuals and families residing in DHS shelters, including asylum hotels, to secure permanent housing through various rental assistance programs such as CityFHEPS, Special One-Time Assistance (SOTA), Family Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement (FHEPS) A, and FHEPS B. The specialist will work closely with shelter residents, case managers, and landlords to facilitate the housing placement process and ensure compliance with program requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of shelter residents to determine eligibility for CityFHEPS, SOTA, FHEPS and FHEPS B programs.
• Assist residents in completing applications for CityFHEPS, SOTA, FHEPS A, and FHEPS B, and gathering necessary documentation.
• Provide guidance and support to residents throughout the housing search process, including identifying suitable housing options and scheduling viewings.
• Liaise with landlords and property managers to secure housing placements for eligible residents.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all interactions and progress in the housing placement process.
• Collaborate with case managers and other shelter staff to develop and implement individualized housing plans for residents.
• Conduct follow-up visits and provide ongoing support to residents after they have secured housing to ensure stability and address any issues that may arise.
• Stay informed about changes to the CityFHEPS, SOTA, FHEPS A, and FHEPS B programs and other relevant housing assistance programs.
• Attend training sessions and meetings as required.
• Identify clients who may be eligible for the SOTA program and assist them with the housing search and application process.
• Ensure that all housing placements meet the requirements of the SOTA program, including income verification and apartment reviews.
• Assist families with children who receive Cash Assistance and are facing eviction or have been evicted, or who lost their housing due to domestic violence or health and safety issues, through the FHEPS A and FHEPS B programs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in housing assistance, case management, or a related field.
• Knowledge of CityFHEPS, SOTA, FHEPS A, and FHEPS B programs and other housing assistance programs in NYC.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software.
• Bilingual skills (preferred but not required).