Housing Specialist

MISSION STATEMENT

Are you ready to give back to the community while pursuing your passion?  For over 50 years, Acacia Network and its affiliates have been committed to improving the quality-of-life and wellbeing of underserved communities in New York City and beyond.  We are one of the leading human services organizations in New York City and the largest Hispanic-led nonprofit in the State, serving over 150,000 individuals every year. Our programs serve individuals at every age and developmental level, from the very young through our daycare programs to mature adults through our older adults centers. Our extensive array of community-based services are fully integrated, bilingual and culturally competent.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The MRT Housing Specialist assists Medicaid-eligible individuals with securing, maintaining, and transitioning to safe, stable, and affordable housing. The role focuses on housing navigation, landlord engagement, documentation compliance, and coordination of housing services in accordance with Department of Health (DOH) regulations, HUD guidelines (when applicable), and agency policies. The Housing Specialist works closely with Case Managers and community partners to promote long-term housing stability and client independence. Address: 254 Virginia St | Buffalo, New York 14201

KEY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• In collaboration with the Program Supervisor the HS Conducts initial screenings and intakes to confirm program eligibility.
• Collect required identification, Medicaid verification, and consent forms.
• Complete required Housing assessments documentation and risk assessments within required timelines.
• Explain program rights, responsibilities, safety plans and grievance procedures to participants as needed.
• Conduct housing needs assessments and identify barriers to stability.
• Contribute to the Participants Individualized Service Plan (ISP) with housing-related SMART goals.
• Evaluate eligibility for supportive housing programs, subsidies, or rental assistance/Section 8.
• Reassess housing status at required intervals or when life events occur
• Assist participants with housing applications, waitlists, and documentation packets.
• Identify available units through property managers, housing authorities, and community listings.
• Coordinate apartment viewings, inspections, and lease signings.
• Support move-in logistics, including utilities setup, Groceries and basic furnishing referrals.

• Request Subsidy payment for Security deposit, first month rent, Groceries and furniture to bookkeeping for initial intake process.
• Develop and maintain relationships with landlords, brokers, and property management companies.
• Mediate tenant–landlord issues to prevent evictions.
• Advocate for reasonable accommodations and fair housing practices.
• Track landlord contacts and unit availability and provide database to supervisor.

• Educating the landlord about our Intent to Rent, Landlord Voucher, and W-9 forms, payment timelines, and responsibilities in case participants become non-compliant with their contractual obligations.
• Conduct annual apartment Inspections and per landlord request. 

• Maintain accurate, timely, and audit-ready records in the electronic housing database.
• Complete housing progress notes, placement records, and verification of residence forms.
• Ensure documentation meets DOH and HUD standards.
• Participate in internal and external audits or site reviews.
• Provide education on tenant rights, lease compliance, and budgeting for rent/utilities.
• Identify early warning signs of housing loss and intervene promptly.
• Coordinate with Case Managers to address barriers such as income gaps, benefits issues, or behavioral health needs.
• Develop eviction-prevention and safety plans when necessary
• Link participants to financial assistance programs, rental subsidies, and emergency funds.
• Collaborate with agencies providing Included but not limited to Employment and vocational services, Food and utility assistance, Independent Living Skills Training
• Track housing referral outcomes and Participant follow-through and report to the supervisor.
• Monthly Rent subsidy request to the bookkeeping
• Attend multidisciplinary team meetings and supervision sessions.
• Communicate housing updates to Case Managers, Supervisors, and external partners.
• Participate in DOH training and policy update briefings.
• Support agency housing initiatives and data collection efforts

REQUIREMENTS

• Highschool Diploma or GED required
• Associate’s degree preferred
• Minimum of (2) two years of experience in Housing Program
• Must obtain Mandated reporter (2 hours) training/certificate within 30 days of hire. 
  • Website info: https://nysmandatedreporter.org/TrainingCourses.aspx
• HQSI Certification preferred, but not necessary.
• Basic Social work experience preferred.
• Strong leadership, excellent organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work on a strong team of professionals in a culturally diverse environment.
• Ability to multitask and to work and function under pressure.

WHY JOIN US?

Acacia Network provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. In addition to a competitive salary, our benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage. We also offer generous paid time off, including vacation days and paid holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance. We prioritize the well-being of our employees both professionally and personally.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.