About the job
The New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) stands as the largest organization in the United States focused on the prevention and resolution of homelessness. Collaborating with various City Agencies and Nonprofit Organizations, DHS aims to avert homelessness before it occurs, reduce street homelessness, provide temporary shelter, and connect individuals and families to stable housing, all while emphasizing accountability, empathy, and equity.
DHS is dedicated to continuous improvement and employs innovative strategies to deliver high-quality services that facilitate a swift transition from shelter to self-sufficiency. With a substantial budget in the billions, DHS manages numerous facilities and a large workforce to address the diverse needs of New Yorkers experiencing homelessness.
The Division of Shelter Intake oversees the daily operations of the agency’s intake and assessment sites for Single Adults, Adult Families, and Families with Children, whether directly managed or through contracted providers. This Division ensures that the City’s most vulnerable populations can access shelter 24/7, 365 days a year, based on eligibility criteria.
The Department of Homeless Services (DHS) is seeking a Community Associate to fulfill the role of Intake Worker. This position involves:
- Engaging with various communities served by DHS to inform residents about available programs and services for the homeless population. Conducting interviews with families in these communities and issuing social service referrals. Participating in onsite/offsite/community meetings to discuss key issues affecting the homeless population and the daily operations of the unit, providing insightful suggestions for improvement.
- Maintaining communication with various community shelters to relay shelter placement information and facilitate transportation to these shelters. Assisting the Community Coordinator in addressing onsite/offsite client inquiries with utmost confidentiality and sensitivity throughout the application process.
- Accurately recording all client information and social service referrals using the online CARES and Q-Flow systems. Inputting codes to register applicants for temporary housing and relaying shelter placement information while aiding in transportation arrangements.
- Performing essential clerical duties as assigned by the Site Manager, including preparing written monthly, quarterly, and annual administrative statistical and narrative reports regarding shelter placements. Collecting, analyzing, and evaluating on-site statistical data from various sources, and communicating findings to superiors. Collaborating with different units to process schedules and reports, as well as coordinating and preparing case files and documentation.

