Are you passionate about helping people facing housing challenges or insecurity? Do you want to make a difference for people dealing with housing challenges? The Shelter Support Worker Micro-Credential Certificate Program is a five-week course that helps you build key skills for a rewarding career in social services.
Whether you’re launching your career, changing paths, or looking to upskill, this intensive program provides practical, trauma-informed, and harm-reduction training to support individuals and families in need — in Toronto and across Ontario and Canada.
Role of a Shelter Support Worker
Shelter Support Workers are frontline professionals who help individuals facing housing challenges or transitions. They work in shelters and supportive housing programs to assist clients in finding stability, accessing resources, and moving toward independent living.
In this role, you will:
- Help residents work toward their case plans and personal goals
- Offer care with compassion and respect
- Support residents in building independence through daily routines
- Create a safe environment focused on the clients
- Connect individuals with necessary resources and housing support
Why Choose This Program in Ontario?
With the growing need for qualified support workers in Toronto and throughout Canada, this micro-credential helps you gain practical skills for shelters, supportive housing, and community outreach roles. Whether you are beginning your career in social services or improving your current position, this program provides tools that employers appreciate. Discover more details and download our brochure now.
In Just 5 Weeks, You’ll Gain
Essential knowledge and practical tools include trauma-informed care, de-escalation strategies, cultural sensitivity, boundary setting, and navigating shelter systems and community resources. You will receive training to support individuals with various housing and social service needs. For a detailed breakdown of topics, view the Course Outline here.
Course Modules
Module 1 – Orientation: Toronto Shelter System & Professional Responsibilities
This introductory module outlines the course structure, participant expectations, and a historical overview of the housing and homelessness crisis in Ontario. It explores both systemic and individual contributors, particularly among youth, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, Indigenous peoples, newcomers, refugees, and people with disabilities. The session also introduces the Toronto shelter system, including operational standards, low-barrier models, and approaches like Housing First.
Module 2 – Equity, Diversity & Human Rights
Participants will explore the experiences of marginalised and intersecting communities. They will gain a deeper understanding of systemic oppression and human rights in the context of shelter work.
Module 3 – Conflict Resolution & Effective Communication
This module focuses on building strong communication skills to prevent misunderstandings and promote clarity. Participants will also develop effective listening strategies and techniques for de-escalating tense situations.
Module 4, Trauma-Informed Care & Wellness
Students will learn how trauma-informed practices create supportive environments that promote healing and recovery. This approach recognizes the widespread effects of trauma and aims to prevent re-traumatization in service delivery.
Module 5 – Ethics, Confidentiality, Boundaries & Disclosure
This module covers the ethical principles and professional standards needed for work in shelter environments. Students will learn how to keep information confidential, set healthy boundaries, and handle appropriate disclosure while following a caring and respectful code of conduct.
Module 6 – Building Confidence & Overcoming Barriers
Students will identify common personal barriers and learn strategies for building confidence and avoiding behaviours that hinder professional growth.
Module 7 – Harm Reduction Approaches
This module explores harm reduction strategies—approaches that aim to reduce the adverse health, legal, and social impacts associated with substance use. Students will learn how to offer support without judgment or pressure. Abstinence will not be required for care.
Module 8, Case Management & Documentation
Participants will learn the core concepts of case management, including assessment, planning, coordination, and evaluation of client care. Best practices for documentation and record-keeping in shelter settings will be discussed.
Module 9, Intervention Strategies & De-Escalation
This module gives students mechanisms to respond effectively to people in challenging situations. Participants will learn de-escalation techniques, how to remain calm under pressure, and why it’s essential to respond with empathy.
Module 10, Indigenous Competency & Cultural Awareness
This final module offers a look into Indigenous cultures, values, and beliefs. Students will examine Indigenous histories through storytelling and think about how personal and societal stories impact well-being.
Admission Requirements
- An Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or
- Equivalent: Foreign credentials must be translated into English and assessed for Grade 12 equivalency by a recognised organisation, or
- Mature Student with a score of 11 or more on the Wonderlic SLE.
What You’ll Gain
- 40 hours of comprehensive online training
- Choice of self-paced or instructor-led learning
- Practical, real-world skills relevant to social services
- Employment support and job search coaching
- Over 100 hours of optional practicum placement
Career Pathways & Opportunities
Graduates may pursue opportunities in settings such as:
- Emergency shelters
- Family shelters and community shelters
- Group homes
- Drop-in centres
- Respite shelters
- Food banks
- Supportive housing
- Harm reduction centres
- Residential treatment centres
- Youth shelters
Register Now for the Shelter Support Worker Certificate Program
Begin your training in shelter and housing support today.
Or Register For Upcoming Info Session
