HELP OUT: Migrant Shelter Medical Advocate

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As part of the San Diego Rapid Relief Network (SDRRN), Jewish Family Service (JFS) provides on-going services to help transition individuals and families who are seeking Asylum in the United States. These services are in response to the immediate needs of newly arrived migrants, it aims to help them reach their sponsors in other parts of the country. With ankle monitors and notices to appear in court, as many as 30-40 families a day are arriving in need of food, shelter, and medical care. With their partners in the SDRRN, JFS is able to meet the needs of these families and provide them multiple services to assist in their journey ahead.

Based on the current COVID-19 pandemic, asylum seekers released by the government stay in individual hotel rooms for their short stay instead of joining other families in a congregant living setting at a shelter. In partnership with the SDRRN, JFS will continue to provide case management, travel assistance, nutrition services, medical screenings, and financial support for migrant families.

In this role, volunteers help drive family members to their medical appointments and provide a follow-up report to the shelter manager with any updates or future appointments made. Due to COVID, volunteers need to remain in their vehicle during the appointment or provide a phone number for nurses to call when the appointment is complete. As an advocate, you have the opportunity to ensure that families are treated with dignity and respect while navigating the medical system and serve as a reminder that they are not alone.

Opportunity Requirements & Important Notes

Signing up: Express interest here or create an account on JFS's Galaxy Digital site.

Responsibilities:

Answer JFS's health screening questions prior to your shift.

Sanitize vehicle surfaces before and after escorting guests.

Wear a face mask for the duration of your shift.

Pick up guests from their respective hotels.

Wait with guest while they await medical care.

Explain the process of receiving hospital care.

Advocate for the guest with hospital staff.

Communicate with Shelter Manager regarding any medical updates in guest condition and any other needs of the guest.

May require long periods of waiting.

Qualifications:

Language recommendations include Spanish, Haitian, and Russian.

Ability to function in a dynamic and stressful environment with little or no supervision, adapting to change.

Safety: Wearing a face mask over the mouth and nose is required during all Jewish Family Service volunteer opportunities.

Time Commitment: 3 hours minimum, this role is on-call

About Jewish Family Service of San Diego

Jewish Family Service (JFS) is a client-centered, impact-driven organization working to build a stronger, healthier, more resilient San Diego.