Client Services Coordinator

Overview:

The West Seattle Food Bank (WSFB) is a private, non-profit organization whose mission is to strengthen the community through the power of neighbors helping neighbors, working to ensure all in our community have access to the essential necessities of living. The agency was established in 1983 and in March of 2020 merged with the West Seattle Helpline (WSH) to expand services. Primary services include distribution of food, financial assistance, clothes, and referrals for additional services and resources. The agency serves over 2,000 households every week. Service area is primarily in the southwest portion of Seattle (West Seattle).

Job Description:

The Client Services Coordinator (CSC) is funded through the City of Seattle’s Human Services Department’s Community Connectors at Food Banks Program with the primary goal of assisting food bank clients to access additional resources. The CSC will provide services in a culturally responsive manner, tailored to the needs of each individual. Services will include conducting an inventory of needs assessment, connecting clients to appropriate services, and helping clients complete applications or coordinating with service providers to support enrollment in one or more services. Services may include but are not limited to assistance in accessing employment, social security, DSHS benefits, health insurance and health care, and housing applications. The CSC will also be responsible for working with clients through our financial assistance and resource referral process. This includes reviewing and processing client financial assistance and bus ticket applications. The CSC will be responsible for maintaining client data in both the agency and the City databases. The CSC will report to the Helpline Services Program Manager (PM).

Some work may be done remotely but the CSC will be expected to be at the West Seattle Food Bank and available to meet with food bank recipients during food bank hours, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday 10 AM – 2:00 PM; Wednesdays 12:00 – 7:00 PM, at a minimum.

Primary tasks include:

• Complete client needs assessment and refer clients to available services i.e., (shelter, food, healthcare, housing), social services programs, and/or education, employment, and volunteer opportunities that promote self-sustainability and general well-being.
• Complete the financial assistance process with clients, including interviewing clients, reviewing applications, verifying information, uploading supporting documents, contacting debtors, and submitting payments for approval.
• Clearly communicate any changes in eligibility criteria and service offerings to clients, volunteers, staff, community partners and others impacted by changes.
• Participate in scheduled meetings with other stakeholders as assigned.
• Assist in developing, researching, and updating resource and referral materials, ensuring new resources are added and shared
• Maintain complete and accurate client files, collect and compile statistics for agency reporting, complete all required reports in a timely manner.
• Input client data in Apricot and ETO databases
• Maintain confidentiality of all client information and application details.
• Other duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in social services, social work, or psychology, or a minimum of two years’ direct experience working with low-income individuals and marginalized communities in a social service, employment, or educational setting.
• Knowledge of pertinent issues, including housing security, human services, and addressing injustices in underserved communities.
• The ability to communicate effectively in English, verbally and in writing.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish or Vietnamese or Somali strongly preferred.
• Experience with Microsoft office and in database management.
• Demonstrated understanding of and sensitivity to the needs of the diverse communities we serve.
• Demonstrated ability to provide consistent, impartial service by treating all clients equitably, without bias or favoritism.
• Excellent time management skills and the ability to work with limited supervision and considerable self-direction.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment by respecting diversity, adapting communication, and fostering inclusion with co-workers, volunteers, and clients from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to pass Washington State Criminal Background Check.