Shelter Support Worker

About the Organization

The Salvation Army has been serving communities across Canada and Bermuda for well over a century, supporting people in need with essentials such as food, clothing, and shelter. Its work also extends to people facing unemployment, addiction, and family-related difficulties. The organization operates from a faith- and values-based foundation and welcomes people from all backgrounds.

Mission

The Salvation Army’s purpose is to express the love of Jesus Christ, respond to human needs, and create positive change in communities around the world.

Role Overview

This full-time permanent position is based in London, Ontario, Canada, and follows the schedule Sunday to Thursday from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. The role focuses on maintaining a safe, clean, and supportive shelter environment through client monitoring, intake, administrative work, crisis support, and harm reduction practices.

Key Duties

• Help maintain safety and order in the shelter by monitoring clients, managing building access, screening individuals, and responding to emergencies.
• Carry out intake interviews, determine program fit, support admissions and discharges, and connect clients to internal or external referrals as needed.
• Provide compassion, advocacy, and immediate support to clients in distress while linking them to case workers or community services.
• Keep records accurate and current, including bed rosters, daily logs, incident documentation, memoranda, and HIFIS entries.
• Support healthier choices through harm reduction, personal hygiene encouragement, respectful engagement, and the sharing of health and safety materials, while promoting recreation and community participation.
• Complete light cleaning and upkeep tasks in client rooms, shared areas, and washrooms to preserve a sanitary and welcoming setting.
• Work closely with colleagues to maintain a respectful, safe, and professional workplace and represent the organization appropriately.
• Take on additional related duties as required.

Supervision and Working Relationships

The role reports to the Program Manager. Internal relationships include ministry unit leadership, staff, and volunteers. External contacts may include contractors, vendors, and guests/clients of the ministry unit.

Financial and Materials Responsibilities

The position requires sound judgment when using organizational and personal resources. It may also involve tracking cleaning supplies and caring for cleaning tools, equipment, and cleaning products.

Working Conditions

Most duties are carried out indoors. The job involves frequent standing, along with moderate lifting, carrying, and walking. Basic cleaning work requires physical effort and careful handling of chemicals and cleaning agents. Physical stamina is important, as the role may require lifting, carrying, or pushing/pulling items up to 30 lbs. While the environment is generally positive, occasional interaction with people displaying challenging behavior may occur.

Education and Screening Requirements

A minimum of Grade 12 plus up to six months of specialized courses is required. First Aid and CPR, Food Safe, and strong computer skills are also needed. Candidates must successfully complete all required screening and background checks to the organization’s satisfaction, including the Salvation Army Abuse Registry process, and provide an original vulnerable sector check.

Experience Requirements

At least three months of relevant experience is required. The ideal background includes familiarity with cleaning procedures in an organizational environment, experience working with diverse groups, and direct exposure to supporting individuals with mental health and addiction-related needs. A suitable mix of education and experience may also be considered.

Skills and Personal Attributes

The successful candidate should be committed to understanding and supporting the mission of The Salvation Army and should work in line with occupational health and safety rules and internal safety procedures. Strong oral and written communication, the ability to follow detailed instructions, independence, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, attention to detail, patience, professionalism, confidentiality, integrity, and ethical judgment are all important.

Compensation

The intended pay range is $21.65 to $22.80, with a maximum rate of $23.95. Final placement within the range depends on market factors, internal equity, and the applicant’s relevant experience, skills, and qualifications.

Accommodation

Reasonable accommodation is available on request for candidates who need it during the hiring process.