Relief Caseworker - Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton

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 driver's 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 Bachelor's 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

• Bachelor's Degree in Social Work or Human Services-related field
• Casework experience a plus
• Must possess a Valid PA Driver's 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