Course Description:
This course provides foundational knowledge and practical skills for supporting individuals experiencing homelessness in Canada. Learners will understand the root causes of homelessness, barriers faced by vulnerable populations, trauma-informed approaches, crisis response, housing navigation, and how to connect individuals with community resources such as shelters, healthcare, income support, and 211 Canada services.
The course emphasizes dignity, empathy, safety, cultural awareness, and real-world frontline practices used in Canadian community support environments.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
1. Define homelessness and identify its different forms in Canada
2. Recognize common causes and contributing factors of homelessness
3. Apply trauma-informed and person-centered support approaches
4. Identify risks related to mental health, addiction, and crisis situations
5. Navigate community resources and referral systems
6. Support clients respectfully while maintaining professional boundaries
7. Document interactions and provide basic case support
8. Understand ethical responsibilities and confidentiality practices
Target Audience:
* Support Workers
* Shelter Staff
* Outreach Workers
* Community Volunteers
* Youth Workers
* Case Managers
* Settlement Workers
* Healthcare Aides
* Social Service Students
- Course Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Course Duration: 6–8 Hours (Self-Paced LMS Training)
- Case study analysis
- Reflection exercise