Social Care Housing Specialist

Educational Alliance (EA), one of New York City’s original settlement houses, was founded in 1889 to offer educational, social, and cultural services to Jewish immigrants arriving to the Lower East Side. Today, EA is a proudly Jewish institution that partners with diverse communities throughout Lower Manhattan. We provide New Yorkers with high-quality, transformational programs that enhance their well-being and socio-economic opportunities, reflecting our belief that everyone in our city should be given the tools to thrive. Across our network of community centers, our staff empowers people of all backgrounds to flourish.

About the Role

The Center for Recovery and Wellness takes a holistic, strengths-based approach to recovery and wellness that responds to the distinct needs of each individual. Programs include residential and outpatient addiction treatment, recovery services, prevention education, and community programming. CRW offers culturally competent, evidence-based programs and services that strengthen individuals and communities, enhance resiliency, and foster lasting recovery.

The Social Care Network Housing Specialist will conduct housing assessments to determine participants’ housing readiness and housing needs. They will provide comprehensive case management, assist clients in completing applications for housing and rental subsidy programs, and provide counseling and specific HRSN services when needed. The role involves establishing linkages with real estate brokers and landlords, utilizing media resources such as the internet to identify available apartments, and maintaining detailed participant notes and a database of housing resources.

This position will evolve over time. HRSN and other services will begin at the Center for Recovery and Wellness but will eventually expand to other community centers within the Lower East Side community. Flexibility is essential to be successful in this role.

Responsibilities

• Conduct outreach to Medicaid recipients who have been referred for HRSN and housing services.
• Assess housing needs and develop individualized housing plans.
• Complete applications for housing and rental subsidy programs.
• Assist in finding temporary or emergency housing as needed.
• Collaborate with care teams and community partners to ensure coordinated support.
• Document interactions, referrals, and follow-ups accurately in case management platform.
• Maintain confidentiality and act with cultural sensitivity and empathy.
• Develop relationships with community groups/agencies in partnership with the Center.
• Adhere to agency and program-specific policies and procedures.
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and other pertinent events as recommended by supervisors.
• Perform any other duties as required.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Urban Planning, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 2 years of experience in housing services, case management, or working with vulnerable populations.
• Experience in pre-tenancy services (interviews, housing search and application process, tenant rights/eviction education, and case management or social services).
• Knowledge of social care, local resources, and health-related social need principles.
• Ability to assess housing needs and develop individualized housing plans.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal housing assistance programs (Section 8, HUD, HRA, etc.).
• Familiarity with Medicaid eligibility, benefits, and referral systems.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills.
• Technological proficiency with data entry, recordkeeping, and screening tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.

Additional Information

• Flexibility as the agency rolls out enhanced care services.
• Some local travel is required for community site visits or events (monthly MetroCard/equivalent will be provided).
• Must maintain professionalism in sensitive and confidential situations.