Position Summary:
To conduct outreach for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly the Food Stamp Program) targeting underserved communities. Providing clientele with education, assessment and facilitated enrollment services to SNAP.
Duties and Responsibilities:
As part of the Benefits Access Department, the SNAP Specialist will work with a team to conduct an intensive outreach campaign targeting the working poor, seniors and immigrant communities.
Under the supervision of the Director, Benefits Access the SNAP Specialist will:
Conduct outreach to community based organizations, emergency food programs and other partners providing information on SNAP rules and regulations.
Educate potentially eligible clients about SNAP.
Screen, counsel and advise clients on necessary documentation and eligibility requirements for SNAP.
Provide facilitated enrollment services to clients so they can apply and recertify for SNAP via the Human Resources Administration database.
Ensure that all SNAP applications are complete with proper supporting documentation.
Track client submissions in AWARDS, Met Council’s database system and file client information.
Provide case management and advocacy assistance to clients if issues arise.
Work in tandem with local SNAP centers and other Benefits Access team members.
Travel occasionally to local SNAP centers for meetings with Human Resources Administration staff.
Attend community outreach events, fairs and forums as needed.
Competencies:
Benefits screening, especially for SNAP.
Exceptional customer service skills.
Sensitivity and cultural competency in working with low-income communities of New York City.
Comfort using online technologies and database systems on a daily basis.
Public speaking, including making presentations in various settings.
Ability to help clients navigate through barriers while adhering to Human Resources Administration protocol and policies.
Attention to detail to ensure that client applications are submitted properly and with necessary documentation.
Serving the diverse needs of clients with professionalism and patience.
Promptness and adherence to regular work hours (9am – 6pm) is particularly important for this position, as successful candidate is providing direct services to the community.
Skill and Education Required:
High School Diploma (required), Bachelor’s Degree (preferred)
Prior experience working with low-income communities (preferred)
Background in public health, public administration or human services
Additional language capabilities particularly Russian and/or Spanish(strongly preferred)
Knowledge of government benefits is a plus
Physical Demands:
Required Constantly: Walking, sitting, grasping, bending, stooping, squatting, computer input, finger dexterity and coordination of hand, eye and foot.
Required Frequently: Standing and climbing stairs; carrying laptop & files (approx. 8-10 lbs).
Required Occasionally: Reaching above the shoulder, and lifting 5-25 pounds, pushing and pulling.
Special Requirements:
This position requires a willingness to travel throughout the five borough of New York City.
The primary locations for this position will be in the Queens neighborhoods of Far Rockaway and Forest Hills.
The SNAP Specialist will be stationed within the community on a rotating schedule that will be organized by the Director, Benefits Access.
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