Welcome back fellow challengers. Today’s post is on housing. It is one of the most critical components for survival for people with mental disabilities. Unfortunately of the people who experience homelessness a disproportionate number of them have some type of mental disability. The Mental Health Commission of Canada reported that 25%-50% of people who were homeless also have a mental disability. To be honest when I look at the local homeless people in my neighborhood I feel that number is much higher. My biggest worry is my brother becoming homeless (he was born with a learning disability and developed schizophrenia). The only reason he has a home is because me and my parents are here for him. My parents are already getting up in years, so soon the sole responsibility will eventually be mine. The thought that one bus accident, one cancer diagnosis, one car crash, hell a slip and fall down some stairs and the chances of my brother becoming homeless skyrockets. It scares the crap out of me, but I am also lucky, living in a 1st world country there are some options for him.
Housing Options
Now there are different types of housing options available for people with disabilities. Some are in the private sector while others are provided by the government.
Group Homes:
Typically these are large homes, where individuals will have shared kitchen and common spaces with other people with disabilities. They also provide supervision (ie social workers and nurses). Most also provide meals.
Supported Living Apartments:
These are similar to the group homes except the individual is living in an apartment by themselves. The level supervision in these accommodations is much less when compared to group homes.
Independent Apartments:
These are apartments where the government subsidizes or pays for the rent. The owner of the apartments does not provide any services to the individual. However supportive services are provide by third party organizations.
Assisted living within your current accommodations:
Here a 3rd party service provider sends an person to come to your home and assists with tasks you require in order to help live your life.
The types of services available varies depending on your housing but typical example of service that can be offered are:
- Assistance with personal care
- Light housekeeping and laundry
- Medication reminders
- Safety checks
- Light meal preparation
- Wellness/health promotion activities and education
- Referral to community resources and assistance navigating the healthcare system
- Services are provided by Personal Support Workers (PSWs). Through an on-going assessment process, you and the Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) mutually agree upon your services
Where to Apply:
Now this section does not include everything but is a good place to start if you live in or near Toronto. A lot of government housing is free or heavily subsidized however the wait times can be anywhere from 7- 12 years. So it is critical get on those waiting list as soon as possible. See below for a list organizations/website to start your search:
- Toronto Community Housing – This is affordable housing but does not provide in home services.
- E Mental Health
- Access Point – Below organizations partner with Access Point and you must apply to Access Point first.
Now its challenge time! I encourage all of you to begin the search and please share any information you find.