Policies and Procedures Manual for Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters

​

 

1. Introduction

Purpose of the Manual

The purpose of this manual is to provide clear and consistent policies and procedures for the operation of Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters. This document serves as a guide for staff, volunteers, and clients to ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of everyone involved.

​

Mission, Vision, and Core Values

• Mission: To provide Christ-centered shelter, care, and support services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, empowering them to achieve stability and self-sufficiency while restoring their dignity and hope through the love of God.

• Vision: To create a community where no one is left without shelter, and every individual has the opportunity to rebuild their life with dignity and purpose.

• Core Values: Compassion, Faith, Dignity, Empowerment, Collaboration.

​

 

2. Governance and Organizational Structure

Leadership Roles and Responsibilities

• Executive Director: Oversees all operations, fundraising, and community outreach.

• Program Manager: Manages day-to-day shelter operations and supervises staff.

• Case Managers: Provide individualized support and resources to clients.

• Volunteer Coordinator: Recruits, trains, and schedules volunteers.

​

Chain of Command

All staff and volunteers must follow the chain of command for reporting issues or seeking guidance. Any concerns should first be addressed to the immediate supervisor, then escalated to the Program Manager or Executive Director as necessary.

​

 

3. Shelter Operations

Admission Policies

• Clients must complete an intake process, including a brief interview and assessment.

• Admission is granted on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to families with children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

• Clients must agree to abide by the shelter’s rules and policies.

​

Client Rights and Responsibilities

• Rights:

  • To be treated with dignity and respect.

  • To receive safe and clean accommodations.

  • To access available programs and services.

• Responsibilities:

  • To follow all shelter rules and policies.

  • To respect other clients, staff, and volunteers.

  • To participate in case management or other required programs.

​

House Rules

• Curfew is at 9:00 PM unless otherwise specified.

• Clients must maintain cleanliness in shared spaces and personal areas.

• Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas.

• Weapons, drugs, alcohol, and illegal substances are strictly prohibited.

​

 

4. Programs and Services

Emergency Shelter Services

• Clients are provided with safe sleeping accommodations, meals, and access to hygiene facilities.

• Separate sleeping areas are designated for men, women, and families.

​

Case Management and Support Services

• Case managers work with clients to develop individualized action plans, including goals for housing, employment, and health.

• Support services include job training, financial literacy workshops, and referrals to mental health or addiction recovery programs.

​

Faith-Based Programs

• Clients are invited to participate in Bible studies, prayer groups, and worship services. Participation is voluntary and open to all faiths.

​

 

5. Staff and Volunteer Policies

Recruitment and Onboarding

• All staff and volunteers must complete an application, background check, and orientation session before beginning their roles.

​

Code of Conduct

• Staff and volunteers must treat all clients, colleagues, and community members with respect and professionalism.

• Personal relationships with clients are prohibited to maintain professional boundaries.

​

Confidentiality Policy

• All client information must be kept confidential and only shared with authorized personnel as needed.

​

Safety and Security Guidelines

• Staff and volunteers must report any safety concerns or incidents immediately.

• Volunteers are not permitted to administer medical care unless trained and authorized.

​

 

6. Health and Safety Policies

Hygiene and Sanitation

• All areas of the shelter must be cleaned and sanitized regularly.

• Clients are encouraged to maintain personal hygiene and have access to showers and hygiene supplies.

​

Emergency Preparedness

• Staff and volunteers must be familiar with fire evacuation routes and procedures.

• Regular drills will be conducted to ensure preparedness for emergencies.

​

Incident Reporting

• Any accidents, injuries, or incidents must be documented using the shelter’s Incident Report Form and submitted to the Program Manager.

​

 

7. Client Policies

Drug and Alcohol Policy

• The shelter is a drug- and alcohol-free environment. Clients found in possession of or under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be asked to leave and referred to appropriate resources.

​

Violence Prevention

• Violence, threats, or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. Violators will be removed from the shelter and may face legal consequences.

​

Grievance Procedures

• Clients who have complaints or concerns about shelter policies or treatment may submit a written grievance to the Program Manager. All grievances will be reviewed and addressed promptly.

​

 

8. Financial Policies

Donations and Fundraising

• All donations must be documented and used in accordance with the shelter’s mission and budget.

• Fundraising activities must be approved by the Executive Director and comply with local regulations.

​

Budgeting and Financial Management

• The shelter’s budget is overseen by the Executive Director and Board of Directors. All expenditures must be approved and documented.

​

 

9. Community Partnerships

Collaboration with Churches and Organizations

• Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters partners with local churches, businesses, and community organizations to provide resources, funding, and support services.

​

Volunteer Engagement

• Volunteers are essential to the shelter’s operations. The Volunteer Coordinator ensures that all volunteers are trained, supported, and appreciated.

​

 

10. Acknowledgment and Agreement

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have received, read, and understood the Policies and Procedures Manual for Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters. I agree to abide by the policies and procedures outlined in this manual.

Name: ___________________________________________
 

Signature: ________________________________________
 

Date: ____________________________________________

​

 

Conclusion

This Policies and Procedures Manual is designed to ensure that Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters operates with integrity, efficiency, and compassion. By following these guidelines, we can create a safe and supportive environment for everyone we serve, reflecting God’s love and grace in all that we do.

​

If you have any questions or need clarification, please contact the Program Manager or Executive Director.

 

Approved by:
________________________________

Jehovah Saints Homeless Shelters

Date:  ________________________