Shelter Prevention & Diversion Coordinator
Location: Oak Centre
Position Type: Full-Time, Permanent, 37.5 hours/week
Reports To: Homelessness Services Manager
Salary Range: $27.00/hour
Application Deadline: August 28, 2026
About Us
The John Howard Society of Fredericton is committed to supporting individuals and families
experiencing homelessness by providing compassionate, person-centered services that promote
stability, dignity, and long-term housing solutions. We are seeking a dedicated and experienced
Shelter Diversion and Prevention Coordinator to work with people experiencing housing crisis.
Position Summary
The Shelter Prevention and Diversion Worker is responsible for helping individuals and families
identify safe alternatives to emergency shelter and homelessness. Using a Housing First approach,
the worker will engage clients in strengths-based problem-solving, housing stabilization planning,
and connections to community resources.
The successful candidate will work with people that meet program eligibility who are experiencing
housing crises to identify immediate housing options, maintain existing housing whenever possible,
and reduce the need for emergency shelter stays. This role requires strong crisis intervention,
advocacy, housing navigation, and relationship-building skills.
Key Responsibilities
Shelter Prevention & Diversion
- Conduct client-centered assessments to identify housing needs, strengths, and barriers.
- Assist individuals and families at risk of homelessness to maintain or secure housing.
- Explore diversion options including family reunification, mediation, shared housing
arrangements, and community supports.
- Develop individualized housing stabilization and action plans.
- Support clients in accessing income, benefits, emergency financial assistance, and community
resources.
Housing First Case Management
- Provide trauma-informed, strengths-based support services.
- Assist clients in obtaining and maintaining permanent housing as quickly as possible.
- Support clients in identifying personal goals and improving housing stability.
- Conduct regular follow-up and case management meetings.
- Advocate on behalf of clients with landlords, government agencies, healthcare providers, and
community organizations.
Housing Navigation
- Assist clients with housing searches, applications, and tenancy preparation.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with landlords and property managers.
- Support conflict resolution and housing retention efforts.
- Facilitate referrals to mental health, addictions, health care, employment, and social support
services.
Documentation & Reporting
- Maintain accurate client records and case notes in accordance with agency policies.
- Track service outcomes and performance indicators.
- Prepare reports as required by program and funding requirements.
- Participate in case conferencing and team meetings.
Community Collaboration
- Foster partnerships with shelters, housing providers, social service agencies, healthcare
providers, and community organizations.
- Participate in coordinated access and community homelessness response initiatives.
- Represent the organization at community meetings and events as required.
Qualifications
Education
- Diploma or degree in Social Work, Human Services, Sociology, Psychology, Community
Development, or a related field.
- Equivalent education and experience may be considered.
Experience
- Minimum 2 years of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, housing
insecurity, mental health challenges, substance use, or complex social needs.
- Experience providing case management and crisis intervention services.
- Experience working within a Housing First, harm reduction, and trauma-informed framework
is considered a strong asset.
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong understanding of homelessness prevention, shelter diversion, and housing
stabilization practices.
- Knowledge of community resources, housing systems, and social assistance programs.
- Excellent communication, conflict resolution, and advocacy skills.
- Ability to build trust and rapport with diverse populations.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and documentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Core Competencies
- Compassion and empathy
- Trauma-informed practice
- Cultural humility and inclusivity
- Client-centered service delivery
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Relationship building and collaboration
- Adaptability and resilience
Working Conditions
- Combination of office, community, outreach, and home visits.
- Some evening or weekend work may be required.
- Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation required.
- Successful completion of a Criminal Record and Vulnerable Sector Check is required.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Professional development opportunities
- Supportive and collaborative team environment
- Meaningful work that contributes to reducing homelessness in our community
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter outlining their
qualifications and experience to: Homelessness Services Manager, Kate Hovey ([email protected]).
We are committed to employment equity and encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples,
racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, and
individuals with lived or living experience of homelessness.
Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Pay: $27.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
