Ontario Newsroom Bulletin | Ministry of Community & Social Services | December 20, 2016

Ontario is helping plan new inclusive living environments where people of varying abilities can be connected to their families, friends, neighbours and community.

The province is providing funding to a group of 10 developmental services agencies known as the Intentional Community Consortium (ICC) to develop an inclusive, community-based housing strategy for adults with developmental disabilities. The ICC is guided by a vision of creating housing options in communities across Ontario while leveraging collaborative partnerships.

This work will be guided by the success of other Ontario projects, such as the Reena Community Residence in Thornhill where people with varying abilities live together with a shared vision to support each other, take part in their community and stay connected with their loved ones.

Developing innovative and inclusive housing ideas for people with developmental disabilities is part of our plan to create jobs, grow our economy and help people in their everyday lives.

“We know there is no one-size-fits-all housing solution for adults with developmental disabilities. It’s about exploring creative partnerships to design innovative housing options that can meet the unique needs of a wide range of individuals. Today’s announcement will help us continue our work to address the growing demand for accessible, supportive housing for adults with developmental disabilities.” – Dr. Helena Jaczek, Minister of Community and Social Services

“Reena is proud to partner with Ontario and other developmental service agencies as part of the Intentional Community Consortium to develop our innovative community residence model for adults with developmental disabilities. It’s projects like these that will make a difference in the lives of the segment of the population we work so hard to serve.” – Bryan Keshen, President and CEO, Reena