Job Details

Shelter Support Position

The Shelter Support team plays a key role in maintaining daily operations and providing hands-on support across all program areas within Just Compassion's 50-unit family shelter in Gresham, OR. This position assists with meal preparation, facility upkeep, guest support, and coordination with case management and youth services teams to ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for all participants. This position requires flexibility, strong interpersonal skills, and a team-oriented mindset. Shelter Support team are often the first to respond to participant needs and are essential to the smooth and compassionate functioning of shelter life.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Guest Support and Engagement
• Provide direct assistance to families and individuals staying in the shelter with empathy and professionalism.
• Support participants in accessing daily resources such as hygiene items, laundry, and meals.
• Uphold trauma-informed and harm-reduction principles in all interactions, ensuring participants feel respected and valued.
• Meal Preparation and Kitchen Support
• Prepare and serve meals (breakfast, lunch, or dinner) according to the established schedule and nutritional standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of the kitchen, dining area, and food storage spaces.
• Follow safe food handling and temperature control procedures in compliance with public health standards.
• Operational and Facility Support
• Support the overall upkeep of communal spaces, including cleaning, organizing, and light custodial tasks.
• Assist with setup and takedown for program activities, meetings, and family events.
• Report maintenance or safety concerns promptly to the Program Supervisor.
• Team and Program Collaboration
• Work collaboratively with all shelter departments, including case management, youth services, childcare, and safety staff.
• Assist Youth Services or Childcare Specialists with program setup or activity preparation when needed.
• Documentation and Compliance
• Complete daily logs, shift notes, meal counts, and inventory records as required.
• Maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries in all participant interactions.

Qualifications Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ year of experience in human services, hospitality, or shelter environments.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work compassionately with diverse populations.
• Basic cooking, cleaning, and facility maintenance skills.
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
• Commitment to trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and Just Compassion's mission.

Preferred:

• Experience in food service, social services, or residential facilities.
• Knowledge of homelessness, family services, or housing support systems.
• Food Handler's Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days).
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities (Spanish, Russian, or other languages commonly spoken by participants).