York Region hosts new housing program for adults with developmental disabilities
Yorkregion.com
May 27, 2016
By Jay Gutterridge
York Region will host one of six new housing initiatives for adults with developmental disabilities, Community and Social Services Minister Helena Jaczek announced in Aurora Thursday.
“Everyone here is committed to building a more inclusive province,” the Oak Ridges-Markham MPP said at a press conference at York Support Services Network.
The network, along with York Region Lifetime Independent Facilitators and Montage Support Services, is launching a pilot program called York Region Why Wait? Collaborative Demonstrative Project.
It will provide innovative and individualized housing solutions for eight adults with developmental disabilities.
The participants have chosen a number of housing models, which include support from caregivers, to meet their needs.
One option will allow roommates to purchase a home through a rent-to-own approach.
Another uses technology to help three residents live safely in their apartment.
Finding housing for adults with developmental disabilities is a challenging and costly process, according to the network.
As of March 31, there were 945 people in the region with immediate housing needs and another 1,152 who will be seeking services in the future, the agency said.
Both numbers are expected to increase, it added.
