Hunger Free America (HFA) strives to build a nonpartisan, grassroots movement to enact the policies and programs needed to end hunger and ensure that everyone has sufficient access to nutritious food.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as food stamps) is the largest and most effective of our nation's public anti-hunger programs and the NYS Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides nutrition counseling, health education, and nutritious foods to eligible women, infants, and children. This position will report to the Director of Community Organizing and will be a leader in our community organizing team who will conduct outreach in all boroughs. As part of a small team, the Benefits Outreach Associate will conduct outreach (virtually and in-person) within their existing network - whether that be a school, church, block association, etc. - and as assigned by Hunger Free NYC to deliver information regarding vital food resources.
HFA is seeking to fill a temporary, full-time Benefits Outreach Associate position and a part-time Benefits Outreach Associate position that will report to the WIC Program Manager or the Benefit Access Program Manager. The full-time role will conclude three months after the commencement date, while the part-time position will end six months from the start date.
NOTE: This position must be filled by a qualified Dislocated Worker. Candidates must pass a brief Dislocated Worker screening to be eligible for the position.
Location

• As allowed by the latest pandemic protocols, outreach will be conducted in-person (outdoor/indoor) and from our South Bronx Neighborhood Field Office: 938 Sheridan Avenue, Bronx, NY 10451.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Conduct outreach activities across the 5 boroughs to help inform individuals and families about vital food benefits-SNAP and WIC.
• Work collaboratively on outreach and referral strategies with the WIC Program Manager and the Benefit Access Program Manager to meet monthly targets.
• Assist in helping individuals apply for a reduced MetroCard via the Fair Fares program.
• Interact with members of the public while observing all proper COVID-19 requirements (mask-wearing and social distancing) stipulated by both Hunger Free America and the host/partner/event organizer.
• Refer clients to Cash Assistance, Medicaid, Tax credits, Fair Fares, and HEAP when possible.
• As a representative of Hunger Free NYC, the employee will always act professionally and assume the following duties in preparation for outreach events:
• Print and prepare adequate copies of outreach materials including flyers, brochures, etc. beforehand.
• Wear proper attire (which will include a Hunger Free NYC shirt)
• Bring any materials necessary for setup, which include a table/stand, tablecloth/banner, clipboard, etc. (to be provided).
• Perform administrative duties such as data entry for event outcomes.
• Other tasks as needed.

Desired Background & Skills

• A working knowledge of SNAP and WIC, attained after successful completion of an orientation and training conducted prior to any field work.
• An interest in learning the most up-to-date information on food benefits to answer questions at outreach events.
• Multilingual reading comprehension and writing skills are highly desirable, but not required for this position (Spanish, Bengali, Mandarin/Cantonese, Haitian-Creole, French, Bengali, Urdu, or Arabic).
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and ability to work constructively with diverse groups of people.
• Involvement in community activism and advocacy.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office programs like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; skills with Salesforce a plus.
• Excellent verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to travel throughout New York City using public transit and other methods.
• Desire to help others and willingness to learn.

Essential Physical Demands

• Must be able to frequently remain in a stationary position.
• Occasionally moves about inside the office to access file. cabinets, office machinery, other offices, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery such as a calculator, copy machine, and computer printer.

Salary and Benefits

• This is an entry-level position with a nonprofit organization.
• This position is temporary.
• Full-time (35 hours per week) and part-time (15-20 hours per week) positions are non-exempt with a rate of $21 per hour, ending three months after being hired for a full-time role and six months after being hired for a part-time role, with the potential for extension.
• HFA offers significant benefits to full-time employees, including a strong health insurance plan. Employees also receive generous vacation, holidays, and sick time. In addition, employees have opportunities for training and professional development in their work for one of the nation's most respected and innovative anti-hunger organizations.
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Hunger Free America is an equal opportunity employer. People of all races, sexual orientations, ages, faiths, economic and social backgrounds, genders, physical abilities, and national origins are strongly encouraged to apply.