Food Pantry & Social Services Assistant

Overview

Location: New Britain Corps (New Britain, CT)

Status: Non-exempt, Part-time

Hours Per Week: 25

Schedule: Mon-Fri; 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

 

Scope & Purpose of Position: Provide services to individuals in need, including food and personal hygiene items, clothing and furniture vouchers, rent and utility assistance, referrals to community resources, and seasonal programming. Assist clients with identifying and addressing the root causes of their situation. Work with supervisors to coordinate aspects of the food pantry following established policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate respect and professionalism with clients, staff, community reps, and volunteers.
• Administer the daily operation of the Emergency Assistance Program, including interviews, referrals, and client assistance.
• Coordinate voucher program for utility, clothing, and furniture.
• Discuss special cases with the Corps Officers attempting to resolve client situations.
• Greet clients and provide them with the necessary forms to be assisted.
• Maintain a database of community resources to refer clients to other locations that may help address their needs.
• Perform interviews for clients seeking material assistance.
• Provide all forms of direct service to clients, including, but not limited to, intake/assessment, referrals, advocacy, and material assistance based upon guidelines, available resources, and policies and procedures of The Salvation Army.
• Attend social service agency meetings directly relating to the services The Salvation Army provides clients.
• Develop partnerships to establish The Salvation Army as a site for social service volunteer opportunities.
• Inform local community agencies and other appropriate sources about the goals and objectives of the Emergency Assistance Program.
• Coordinate all aspects of the food pantry in accordance with established policies, including ordering food, ensuring that the appropriate paperwork is completed and maintained, and submitting monthly statistics to Foodshare.
• Order all food and related items to stock the food pantry adequately. Perform necessary errands to procure sundries and other foods as needed, including trips to Food Share to purchase and pick up food.
• Receive all foods when delivered, check all deliveries for accuracy, and store neatly upon delivery.
• Answer phones appropriately and promptly.
• Check emails daily and respond accordingly and in a timely manner.
• Assist in the daily maintenance of the social services office organization, including typing, filing, mailing preparation, ordering supplies, etc.
• Maintain a clean, orderly desk and office area and keep confidential information secure.
• Assist in coordinating various social services programs, activities, and services, including seasonal programs.
• Develop additional services and programs if time allows. Conduct or arrange for workshops on budgeting, nutrition, resources, etc.
• Interview, train, and supervise community service and other volunteers with the supervisor.
• Complete all documentation timely and accurately, including client case notes and secure, confidential records. Maintain accurate records with pertinent information, including client demographics and action plans.
• Coordinate monthly statistics on all services provided and submit them accordingly.
• Maintain confidential client files, including a record of services provided and case notes in the computer database.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma or equivalent is required; an associate's or bachelor’s degree in social services or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of two years of work experience in social services or a related field required.
• Ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing. Works well in a team atmosphere.
• Ability to organize responsibilities, multitask, and function independently.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
• Adhere to guidelines for staff responsibilities as found in The Salvation Army’s Employee Manuals.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred; proficient in spoken and written English.
• Demonstrate ability to engage with diverse populations.
• Demonstrate discretion, integrity, and confidentiality in dealing with all matters.
• Detail-oriented with keen attention to accuracy and confidentiality.
• Excellent time management skills. High energy level and solid work ethic.
• Must complete the KeepSAfe training and other required training upon hire.
• Must embrace, support, and reflect well on The Salvation Army’s miss