Title: Temporary Shelter Support Worker

Reports to: Shelter Team Lead

Location: Abbotsford

Full-time contract from May 1st, 2026, to September 30th, 2026, with possible extension.

JOB SUMMARY

The Nest is a 10-bed shelter which provides safety, connection, and warmth for 10 women who are currently without housing. We are seeking staff who want to support unsheltered women by creating a space that prioritizes dignity and calmness. The Temporary Shelter Support Worker’s main responsibilities will include: Guest engagement and management, housing navigation and stabilization, case management and support services, and interagency collaboration. Multiple positions available, full-time, part-time, and on-call, at a rate of $29.00 per hour.

Main Responsibilities

1. Guest Engagement and Support

• Complete intake documentation for new guests.
• Provide direct support to shelter guests, addressing their immediate needs and concerns.
• Offer compassionate, emotional support to help guests navigate challenges.
• De-escalate inter-personal conflicts that arise within the space, ensuring the safety and well-being of guests and the neighboring community.
• Follow all organizational policies and procedures.
• Cleaning duties and meal preparation duties (breakfast, lunch and snacks).
• Engage with our neighbors in a healthy and respectful way; including managing any concerns that arise in real time.
• Connect guests with external resources to meet their health, social and other needs.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date administrative records.
• Create a sense of community within the space by developing trusting relationships with the guests.
• Facilitate and engage guests in positive social recreational activities.

2. Housing Navigation and Stabilization

• Assist guests with locating, obtaining and maintaining stable housing.
• Help guests search for and apply to housing programs or units.
• Develop Case Plans for guests willing to participate.
• Coordinate with landlords and housing authorities.

3. Case Management and Support Services

• Provide individualized support to help guests access services, navigate systems, and achieve housing and stability goals.
• Complete guest needs assessment, including the use of the Vulnerability Assessment Tool (VAT) and/or other approved assessment tools, where necessary.
• Refer guests to income assistance, using system protocols, where available.
• Refer guests to appropriate local support services including support access to mental health, addition and medical care.
• Assist guests with Pension Benefits, Disability Benefits, obtaining a BC Identification Card, or establishing a back account.

4. Interagency Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with service providers, government agencies, and community groups to support guest needs and improve systemic barriers to wellbeing.
• Work with community partners to support and strengthen staff’s resilience around moral injury, burnout and vicarious trauma.
• Advocate for guest access to services.
• Build relationships with shelter staff, healthcare providers, police, etc.
• Help bridge gaps between guests and formal support systems

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Consent to a criminal background check. A criminal record with not necessarily prevent employment with CEDAR.
• A deep understanding of the complex issues and barriers, including the impact of trauma, that unsheltered women face.
• Knowledge of supportive services and experience navigating various community-based referral processes.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively and compassionately with people from a variety of backgrounds and abilities.
• Ability to use Microsoft 365 and case management software (CAMS and HIFIS).
• Responsive to communication by email, phone, and instant messaging.
• Experience and/or education in the field of homelessness and/or substance use is an asset.
• Ability to commute/relocate to Abbotsford, BC.

What We Offer and Included Benefits:

• Casual dress.
• On-boarding and other required training.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Team building activities.
• Opportunities for growth and development.
• Wages: $29/hour, bi-weekly pay.

To Apply:

• Email your resume and cover letter to admin@cedaroutreach.com
• Any applications submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.
• We are only able to accept candidates who are Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents or those legally entitled/authorized to work in Canada.
• Indicate in your application which position you are interested in.

About CEDAR Outreach Society

CEDAR Outreach Society is a leading grassroots community-based organization in Abbotsford, British Columbia. We provide compassionate and person-centered support to individuals experiencing homelessness, substance use, involvement with the criminal justice system, poverty-related challenges and other complex barriers. At our core is a deep commitment to preserving