Relief Caseworker

Description/Job Summary

This individual will be responsible for all aspects of Relief Casework in the Carbondale Office, including but not limited to representative payee services, rental/mortgage assistance, and assistance in the food pantry. Representative Payee services are provided to individuals that the Social Security Administration has determined as unable to manage their finances. Rental Assistance is provided to eligible individuals experiencing threatened homelessness/homelessness in Lackawanna County. Food assistance is provided to local families in need of emergency food. The case manager reports directly to the Relief Services Supervisor of Catholic Social Services. Typical business hours are Monday-Friday, 8:00 – 4:00; however, must remain flexible to provide optimal service delivery. The individual must possess a current/valid Pennsylvania drivers license and must have access to an insured automobile while on duty. Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance, Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History Clearance, and FBI Fingerprinting Clearance are required. A Bachelors Degree in social work, or another human services related field, is required.

Responsibilities/Duties

Administrative

Adheres to established regulations, policies, and procedures of the overall agency and their specific component.

Interprets agency programs, policies, and/or procedures to individuals, providers, and other community organizations

Attends seminars, conferences, and training to enhance skill and job performance

Links and refers clients to appropriate community resources

Direct Service

Representative Payee Case Management

Opens bank account and ensures client bills are paid in a timely manner

Maintains updated individual files for each client

Creates and adheres to a weekly/monthly budget for each client

Submits yearly rent rebates for eligible clients

Completes and submits required SSA paperwork in a timely manner

Rent/Mortgage Assistance

Complete Intake interview; collect required documents; create household budget; and complete all other required paperwork.

Complete follow-up contacts at 30/60/90 days after completion of the rent plan.

Provide case management services to clients in need of additional support.

Document client contacts in a timely and concise manner utilizing the HMIS system

Ensures client casefiles are current, organized, and maintained

Food Assistance

Assist in unloading and/or shelving food deliveries

Assist in picking up donations at local businesses

Assist in picking up food pantry supplies

Assist in monthly high-rise distribution

Supervision

This position reports to the Relief Services Supervisor for supervision and direction.

Meets for formal supervision at 30/60/90 days of employment, and as needed thereafter

Participates in monthly staff meetings with other relief services caseworkers and supervisor

Performs other related duties as requested or assigned

Miscellaneous

Participate in holiday programs

Participate in outreach efforts to promote the agency

Serve on committees and act as a representative of Catholic Social Services at meetings

Required Qualifications

Bachelors Degree in Social Work or Human Services-related field

Casework experience a plus

Must possess a Valid PA Drivers License and have access to a vehicle during business hours

Proof of current ChildLine, PA State Police, and FBI background checks within last 24 calendar months or to be completed by employer prior to beginning employment

Employer-provided VIRTUS training

Salary

30,000