This is a question we’re asked often in the work we do. At DHBMS, a core tenet of our mission is advocating for inclusive housing—housing that considers and embraces the diverse needs of adults with intellectual disabilities.
But inclusive housing isn’t just about accessibility or affordability. It’s about belonging. It’s about creating spaces where everyone can live with dignity, independence, and connection.
When done right, inclusive housing doesn’t just benefit individuals—it strengthens entire communities. It creates healthier, more vibrant neighbourhoods where differences are welcomed and everyone has a role to play.
We work directly with our community to help bring this vision to life. We know the community wants to help, but community members don’t always know how so we’ve broken down the top four things you need to know about inclusive housing below.
1. Inclusive Housing Is Not Just a Place to Live — It’s a Foundation for Belonging
At DHBMS, we believe housing should be more than a roof over someone’s head—it should be a place where people feel safe, valued, and part of something bigger. That’s why we support housing projects where adults with intellectual disabilities live alongside others as neighbours, not apart in segregated or institutional settings.
Inclusive housing means true integration. It means living in a community that embraces diversity and welcomes people of all abilities, backgrounds, and walks of life.
2. Housing for Everyone is not “Special” Housing
Inclusive housing recognizes that support is essential—but how support is delivered matters. Instead of one-size-fits-all programs, DHBMS champions housing models that offer choice and independence — housing where individuals can live as independently as possible, arranging the supports that work best for them.
That might mean help from family, a community support worker, a friend, or even a thoughtful neighbour. What’s important is that the person with the disability is the primary tenant, with full rights and control over their space. It’s their home, not a program or a facility.
This approach fosters independence, respects privacy, and builds the confidence needed to thrive.
3. Community Is at the Core of Inclusive Housing — And It Takes Many Partners
Inclusive housing doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s the result of collaboration. In Delta, we’re fortunate to work alongside local governments, developers, non-profits, families, and community members who believe in this vision.
DHBMS plays a key role as a bridge-builder, bringing people and organizations together to co-create solutions. We know that lasting, inclusive change happens when everyone has a seat at the table.
This work isn’t just about meeting a need, it's about building an inclusive community together.
4. There Are Not Enough Homes — And the Need Is Growing
The reality is stark: adults with intellectual disabilities are too often left out of mainstream housing plans. In Delta, and across the region, there’s an urgent and growing gap in suitable, affordable homes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
DHBMS works to ensure all voices are not just heard, but actively included in city planning, funding priorities, and housing development strategies. Because everyone deserves a home where they can grow, belong, and be themselves.
You Don’t Have to Be a Housing Expert to Help
Creating an inclusive community is a shared responsibility—and there’s a role for everyone.
Whether you’re a local business owner, parent, student, retiree, or developer, your contribution matters. Maybe it’s hosting a community conversation, offering a service, supporting an event, or simply spreading the word.
When we come together, we build more than homes—we build a community where everyone belongs.
