What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Advocate position at Community Health Action of Staten Island?
Description
Title: Housing Advocate
Department: Community Access
Reports To: Director, Community Health & Division Services
Location: 56 Bay Street, Staten Island, NY 10301
Position Status: Full Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Pay & Benefits: The pay range for this role is generally $41,600 - $45,000 annually, commensurate with relevant experience and qualifications and in alignment with internal equity. Additionally, we offer an excellent benefits package that includes generous paid time off (4 weeks of vacation plus paid holidays, personal, and sick time), medical, dental, vision, supplemental benefits including employer provided basic life insurance and employee assistance programs, tuition reimbursement and fitness reimbursement after 1 year of employment, a retirement plan that includes employer matching, and more!
Community Health Action of Staten Island (CHASI) drives dramatic improvements in the health of New Yorkers by feeding people who are hungry, healing families broken apart by violence, and bridging the gaps between people and the compassionate health care they deserve. CHASI provides outreach, education, prevention, and direct support services for populations most affected by health disparities – people with low or no income, low-income people with chronic illnesses, people with criminal justice involvement, people who use drugs, domestic violence survivors, people of color, and the LGBTQ community.
Position Summary
The Housing Advocate supports individuals identified through CHASI’s Social Care Network in achieving and maintaining stable housing. This dual-role position provides direct housing advocacy, coordinates social care referrals, and delivers hands-on case management to address barriers such as rental arrears, utilities, home safety, and overall household stability. This role ensures clients access the resources and support needed for long-term housing security and self-sufficiency. They work closely with housing providers, landlords, and community partners to expand housing opportunities and strengthen connections to services that support individuals in recovery.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct initial and ongoing housing needs assessments with clients.
- Develop individualized housing stabilization and retention plans that promote long-term stability and self-sufficiency.
- Assist clients in preparing and submitting housing applications, including the 2010E form, and provide ongoing support through the placement process.
- Provide coaching and support to help clients maintain their households, meet lease obligations, manage finances, and prevent eviction.
- Intervene in crisis situations and employ mitigation strategies to preserve tenancy and client safety.
- Identify and link clients to ongoing medical, behavioral health, and community-based support as part of a coordinated care approach.
- Participate actively in case conferences, supervision, and team meetings.
- Perform all functions in alignment with CHASI’s Mission, Vision, and Core Values.
- Other duties as assigned.
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
- High School Diploma or Equivalency required; college degree and/or CASAC credential strongly preferred.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience working with individuals affected by substance use, mental illness, or homelessness.
- At least 1 year of experience in housing placement, advocacy, or case management.
- Strong engagement and communication skills with diverse populations.
- Ability to navigate social and healthcare systems and coordinate across multiple providers.
- Proficiency with data entry and electronic documentation systems.
- Knowledge of housing resources, subsidies, and support programs available in New York City, particularly Staten Island.
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.
- Ability to travel locally to meet with clients, landlords, and partners.
CHASI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to hiring and supporting a diverse staff. All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunities without discrimination because of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, disability or marital status.
Salary : $41,600 - $45,000