Delta Housing Be Mine Society DHBMS Blog

Free Workshop for Families: Disability Life Plan

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 23:51:38 GMT

Our friends at Empowering Ability are hosting a free virtual workshop this Wednesday, January 21, designed specifically for family members of people with disabilities. This session will help participants take practical steps to prepare their loved one for greater independence and build a plan for their future with confidence.

At Delta Housing Be Mine Society, we understand the importance of developing independence at a rate that works for each individual with intellectual disabilities. That means that each individual, and their family, is building a plan that works within their life. This event is a great opportunity to gain tools, clarity, and encouragement from experts who understand the journey families are on from first hand experience.

This supportive, step-by-step workshop will guide participants through three steps:

STEP 1: Prepare Your Loved One for More Independence
Learn simple coaching strategies that help build everyday skills in a positive, low-pressure way.

STEP 2: Secure Their Safety & Future Support

Discover how to put safeguards in place so you can feel peace of mind about your loved one’s future — even when you’re not there.

STEP 3: Create a Personalized Life Plan
Walk through an 8-step Life Planning process to build a roadmap that supports growth, friendships, community connection, and a fulfilling life.

Event Details

Date: Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM Eastern Time / 4:00 PM Pacific Time
Location: Online (virtual event)

Register today and take the first step toward a confident future.

Building Inclusive Housing in Delta: Brick by Brick

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 17:23:12 GMT

On November 17th, community members came together—both in person and online—to support an important presentation at the Delta City Council meeting. Our President, Shirley-Ann Reid, alongside Karla Verschoor, Executive Director at Inclusion BC, presented “Building Inclusive Housing: Brick by Brick – Empowering Community Together.” The presentation outlined the importance of building long-term, inclusive housing; housing that offers a sustainable option for adults living with intellectual disabilities.

The strong turnout demonstrated something powerful: our community cares deeply about ensuring adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have access to inclusive housing they can truly call home

Why Inclusive Housing Matters

For many adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, finding stable, supportive, and inclusive housing is one of the biggest barriers to living independently. Inclusive housing isn’t simply about a place to live—it’s about dignity, safety, community connection, and the opportunity to make meaningful choices. It provides individuals the chance to participate fully in their community, develop lifelong skills, and build lives rooted in belonging.

This is why advocacy at the municipal level is so important. Policy changes directly shape what housing options are available and how quickly progress can happen.

What Happened at the Council Meeting

We are pleased to share that the presentation was extremely well received. In fact, Delta City Council unanimously passed the motion—without any further discussion—supporting our three key recommendations, each of which plays an essential role in building a more inclusive housing landscape:

1. Remove the word “Pilot” from Inclusionary Housing (#8)

Removing the word pilot signals a commitment to long-term, sustainable inclusionary housing rather than temporary or experimental measures. This strengthens the City of Delta’s Housing Action Plan and reinforces the message that inclusive housing is not optional—it’s necessary.

2. Collaborate on a DELTA Toolbox for Inclusive Design

An inclusive design toolbox will help guide future developments by offering resources and best practices to ensure new housing meets the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This practical step empowers builders, planners, and city staff to design with inclusion in mind from the very beginning.

3. Partner with Nonprofits Already Doing This Work

Nonprofit organizations bring expertise, lived experience, and decades of community knowledge. Formal partnerships ensure that future housing solutions are grounded in what really works for the people they aim to support. As we shared in the presentation, this takes the approach of “Nothing About Us, Without Us”, a core tenet of this work.

Moving Forward: A More Inclusive Delta

Your support—showing up, speaking up, and standing with us—played a meaningful role in moving this work forward. Each step brings us closer to a Delta where every adult with intellectual and developmental disabilities has access to safe, welcoming, and truly inclusive housing.

This progress is the result of community effort, shared vision, and unwavering belief in the right of all people to have a home of their own.

Thank you for standing with us. Together, we are building an inclusive future—brick by brick.

Spreading Holiday Cheer at Cascades Casino’s Festival of Trees

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 21:21:36 GMT

The holiday season is here — and with it comes a wonderful opportunity to celebrate community, connection, and giving back.

This year, Delta Housing Be Mine Society (DHBMS) is thrilled to take part in Cascades Casino Delta’s Second Annual Festival of Trees — a festive event that brings together local non-profits to spread holiday cheer and support families in need.

What Is the Festival of Trees?

Hosted by Cascades Casino Delta, the Festival of Trees invites community organizations from across Delta to decorate their own Christmas trees, each representing a local charity or cause.

From now until December 23, visitors can stroll through the beautifully decorated trees inside the casino, enjoy the holiday atmosphere, and vote for their favourite trees — all while helping support local families through Deltassist’s Holiday Programs.

Last year, Deltassist supported 985 children through toy and gift donations — and this year, the community is coming together to help that number grow past 1,000!

How to Vote

Voting is easy — and it’s all about giving back!

In-person voting:
You can cast your vote by bringing a non-perishable food item, unwrapped toy, or monetary donation to the casino. All donations go directly toward supporting local families through Deltassist.

Social media voting:
Cascades Casino will also be sharing photos of the trees online — so keep an eye out and show your support by liking, sharing, and commenting!

Every vote makes a difference — and gives you a chance to win prizes through the casino’s draw for participating guests.

Visit Our DHBMS Tree

This year, we’re proud to share our Delta Housing Be Mine Society tree, lovingly decorated by our team and members to reflect our mission of inclusion, belonging, and community connection.

Our tree celebrates the joy of home — a place where everyone deserves to feel welcome, supported, and valued. Look closely and you’ll see personalized notes about what inclusive housing means to our members on our decorations.

If you’re visiting Cascades Casino Delta this holiday season, be sure to stop by, take a photo, and vote for our tree before December 23. Your support helps raise awareness for inclusive housing and the incredible adults with intellectual disabilities who make our community stronger every day.

Together, We Can Make the Season Brighter

The Festival of Trees is more than just a holiday display — it’s a celebration of what makes Delta such a special community: kindness, connection, and care for one another.

Thank you to Cascades Casino Delta for hosting this beautiful event, and to Deltassist for continuing to support local families during the holidays.

We hope to see you there — and don’t forget to vote for the Delta Housing Be Mine Society tree before December 23!

Together, we can make the season brighter for everyone.

Celebrating Community Inclusion Month

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 23:56:03 GMT

October is Community Inclusion Month in BC, a time to recognize and celebrate the valuable contributions that people with intellectual disabilities make to our communities every day. It’s also an opportunity to reflect on what inclusion truly means — and how we can continue building spaces where everyone feels welcomed, supported, and valued.

This month holds special meaning for us at Delta Housing Be Mine Society (DHBMS). It marks the one-year anniversary of ten of our members moving into their own homes — living independently with the supports they need to thrive.

In honour of this, Delta Housing Be Mine Society hosted an evening celebration of inclusion and community at REACH Child and Youth Development Society in Ladner. The event brought together self-advocates, family members, service providers, and community allies for a night of storytelling, creativity, and connection.

Throughout the evening, we heard, directly from our community, what inclusion means to them and what independent living has meant to them over the past year.

What Inclusion Means to Our Community

We invited members to reflect on three simple but meaningful questions — and their responses offered insight, warmth, and honesty about what inclusion and independence truly look like in everyday life.

What does independent living mean to you?

In celebration of our members that moved into their own homes last year, we asked attendees to share what independent living means to them. The answers were insightful and heartfelt.

Members shared that independent living means being heard, being able to make their own decisions - about what they do, their schedule, and their friends. For many, independent living means creating a home that reflects who they are — cooking the meals they love, decorating their spaces in their own style, and enjoying the freedom to live life on their own terms.

What has been the best part of living in your own home?

When asked about the best part of living independently, guests shared a range of simple but deeply meaningful joys — having their own space, doing their own laundry and cooking, spending time with friends when they choose, and enjoying the comfort of watching their own TV with their own cup of coffee.

What does inclusion mean to you?

When we asked what inclusion means, our members offered powerful reflections. To them, inclusion means:

Being invited places
Being known by name — greeted with a smile or a hello
Being seen and not ignored
Being part of a welcoming group
Having equal opportunities
Feeling that all are welcome and every voice is heard

A shared message that emerged from the group was that inclusion is just the first step — belonging is the goal.

Building a Wall of Inclusion

We ended the evening by creating a Wall of Inclusion — a collaborative space where attendees could write down what inclusion means to them. Together, we filled the wall with colourful notes, kind words, and heartfelt expressions, forming a vibrant mosaic of belonging, respect, and community strength.

A Celebration of Community

The event wasn’t just about reflection — it was about celebration. As we marked one year since ten tenants moved into their own homes here in Ladner, we took time to acknowledge how far we’ve come in building inclusive housing and supportive community networks.

Attendees shared laughs, stories, and conversations that reminded us all why inclusion matters — not just in words, but in daily action and connection.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating Community Inclusion Month. Together, we’re proving that inclusion isn’t just an idea — it’s something we build every day, through connection, compassion, and community.

7 Ways Parents Can Help Their Child Build Skills for Independent Living

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 17:13:35 GMT

For parents of children or adults with intellectual disabilities, the idea of independent living can sometimes feel overwhelming. But independence doesn’t have to happen all at once. It’s a journey. One made up of small steps, daily encouragement, and meaningful opportunities to learn.

As parents, you can play a powerful role in preparing your child for a future where they feel capable, confident, and valued. Here are seven practical strategies to support your child in building skills for greater independence.

1. Start with Something They Love

Independence grows best when it’s connected to joy. Begin by identifying tasks that are both useful and personally meaningful to your child. This could be anything from learning to cook a staple meal to learning how to do their own laundry. Any skill that your child has a natural interest in or curiosity about is a great place to start in building the skills that will, ultimately, enable them to live as independently as possible.

2. Encourage Shared Decision-Making

Rather than stepping in to decide for your child, invite them into the process. Ask for their ideas, listen to their preferences, and weigh options together. Even small choices, like what to eat or what activity to try, build confidence and reinforce that their voice matters. It can be a shift for both of you, taking on decision making together, but one that will help you both in the long run.

3. Break It Down

Big goals can feel intimidating. Instead of tackling everything at once, break tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Teach and practice one piece at a time—whether it’s cracking an egg before making a whole omelet, or learning how to sort laundry before running the washing machine. Breaking down big tasks into smaller ones helps them feel more manageable and less daunting, increasing the chances of success.

4. Match Their Pace

Learning looks different for every individual. Some skills will take longer to develop, and that’s okay. Be patient, offer support when needed, and give them the time and space to practice at a pace that feels right for them. Skill building is a marathon, not a sprint so take your time and let go of any time-bound expectations.

5. Stay Consistent

Consistent routines help adults with intellectual disabilities learn new skills and gain confidence. Try to build regular practice into everyday life. Whether it’s setting aside time each week to cook together or choosing a dedicated laundry day, repetition and consistency help new skills stick.

6. Allow for Mistakes

Mistakes aren’t setbacks, they’re stepping stones. Allow your child to experience trial and error, and encourage safe risk-taking. Each misstep is an opportunity to problem-solve and grow resilience, both of which are essential for independence.

7. Celebrate Every Milestone

No victory is too small to acknowledge. Celebrate progress often—whether it’s a first attempt, a step in the right direction, or mastering a new skill completely. Positive reinforcement not only builds pride but also fuels motivation to keep going.

Preparing a child with intellectual disabilities for independent living is a journey of patience, encouragement, and shared effort. By starting with what brings them joy, supporting their choices, and celebrating every step forward, parents can help their children build the skills and confidence they need to thrive.

If you’re looking to support your child through this journey, our friends over at Empowering Ability have developed a step by step resource to work through these strategies at home. This guide provides information and worksheets to help families support loved ones toward more independence.

What does Inclusive Housing mean?

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 20:16:04 GMT

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.

A Look Back at the Women in the Park Event — with a Twist!

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 18:34:57 GMT

Earlier this month, we attended the Delta Chamber of Commerce Women in the Park event. What was originally planned as the annual Women in the Park event in Ladner Memorial Park turned into a beautiful, rain-adjusted celebration indoors at the Red Barn in Southlands, Tsawwassen — and it couldn’t have worked out better!

As President of Delta Housing Be Mine Society, I was honoured to attend this relaxed, vibrant gathering hosted by the Delta Chamber of Commerce. The event continues to be a powerful celebration of women in leadership — women who are not only thriving in business but also creating opportunities for others and shaping the future.

The evening opened with a fun and interactive social bingo icebreaker, setting the tone for an atmosphere of connection and inspiration. Delicious food was served, including a colourful taco bar, wine and non-alcoholic beverages, decadent desserts, and even some outdoor games — yes, the sun finally made an appearance!

We were treated to inspiring speeches from an impressive lineup, including:

The Honourable Jill McKnight, P.C., M.P., Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
Delta Councillor Jennifer Johal
Laura Cassidy, Chief of the Tsawwassen First Nation

These women spoke from the heart, reminding us that “all dreams are possible to achieve,” and that women are continuing to lead the way — in business, in community, and beyond.

Events like these are more than just social gatherings — they’re fuel for the spirit and a reminder of what’s possible when women come together to support and celebrate one another.

Collaborative Partnerships Key to Affordable and Inclusive Housing

Thu, 15 May 2025 15:43:07 GMT

Affordable and inclusive housing doesn’t happen in isolation—it’s the result of strong partnerships and shared purpose. From developers like Headwater Projects to non-profit leaders such as Affordable Housing Societies and Delta Housing Be Mine Society, and with the support of the City of Delta and Reach Child and Youth Development Society, each partner plays a vital role.

Recently, Reach generously opened their "Community Room" for a cheque presentation, highlighting how every contribution counts—from funding to advocacy to shared spaces—in creating homes where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are welcomed, supported, and included.

Read the full story:

https://www.delta-optimist.com/local-news/investment-supports-affordable-housing-in-ladner-10628980

Inclusive Housing Initiative - Delta Community Snapshot

Sat, 29 Jun 2024 16:54:17 GMT

"Inclusion BC has developed an initiative to demonstrate how communities can collaborate to ensure equal access to suitable housing for all individuals, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The initiative highlights the shortcomings of the current housing system and provides strategies and actions to promote social and economic diversity within communities." For the full infographic report click link.

https://inclusionbc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/SPARC-Inclusion-BC-Infographic-Delta.pdf

Progress Update Evergreen Lane Apartments - Ladner

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 19:36:20 GMT

Delta Housing Be Mine Society is pleased to report that the development of 10 homes reserved for individuals with intellectual disabilities at Evergreen Lane Apartments remains on schedule. The anticipated date for occupancy is set for the end of August and the first week of September 2024, marking an important milestone in our commitment to providing affordable and inclusive housing solutions.

For members of the Delta Housing Be Mine Society (DHBMS), pertinent information regarding the application process will be made available by the end of June. We understand the importance of clarity and accessibility in this process, and we are dedicated to ensuring all interested parties have the necessary resources and support.

Recognizing the unique circumstances of many DHBMS members, particularly those currently residing at home without rental references, Affordable Housing Societies (AHS) acknowledges the challenge of traditional application requirements. In light of this, AHS is prepared to accept Delta Housing Be Mine Society as a valid reference for apartment applicants, aiming to streamline the process and facilitate access to housing opportunities.

These 10 homes stand as a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership. We, Delta Housing Be Mine Society extend our gratitude to Affordable Housing Societies and the City of Delta for their unwavering support and commitment. Furthermore, partnerships with the Provincial and Federal governments have been instrumental in realizing this project, highlighting the collective effort to address housing needs within our community.

As we move forward, we remain dedicated to our mission of providing inclusive and supportive housing solutions, fostering a community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

For further inquiries or assistance, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Email: deltahousingbemine@gmail.com

Website: https://deltahbms.com/

BC Budget Snapshot by Inclusion BC - February 2024

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 00:44:53 GMT

Sadly, the BC Budget does little for people with intellectual disabilities to live a meaningful life.

Inclusion BC Budget Snapshot by Inclusion BC - Recommendations and Actions https://inclusionbc.org/provincial-budget-alert-2024/

Join the Movement for Change

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 19:03:16 GMT

Ready to make a REAL difference in the lives of those with intellectual disabilities?

Delta Housing Be Mine Society (DHBMS) https://deltahbms.com is your gateway to transforming lives and creating affordable and inclusive homes in Delta since 2012. We believe that EVERYONE deserves a place to call home. We are not just a non-profit; we are a passionate MOVEMENT for change!

We're looking for volunteers to join the DHBMS Board of Directors! Your professional experience can be the key to unlocking a brighter future for individuals with varying abilities.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of something truly incredible. Email us at deltahousingbemine@gmail.com to learn how YOU can get involved! ✨

Let's build a world of inclusivity, one home at a time. Join DHBMS today and be the change you wish to see! ❤️

Learn more about the BC Rent Bank

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 23:46:19 GMT

Melissa Giles of the BC Rent Bank presented the Board with a presentation on the services being provided through various agencies in BC arising from the BC Rent Bank initiative.

You can view the video here: https://youtu.be/c7uRhzSCLaY

House of Commons Adopts Legislation for a Canada Disability Benefit

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 20:12:07 GMT

February 2nd, 2023 the House of Commons Adopt Legislation for a Canada Disability Benefit.

"The Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) - "Bill C-22, the ground-breaking legislation for a new Canada Disability Benefit, passed third reading and was unanimously adopted in the House of Commons. Bill C-22 will now move to the Senate for consideration where it will be sponsored by Senator Brent Cotter.'

The Canada Disability Benefit has the potential to lift people with disabilities out of poverty. Canada is a rich country, all people living with a disability deserve to live their life without suffering in deep poverty.

More information: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2023/02/house-of-commons-adopts-legislation-to-create-the-canada-disability-benefit.html

BC Housing Minister Kahlon - Local governments to meet housing targets

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 15:40:02 GMT

"Delta is the leader among B.C. communities, says Kahlon"

Link to article:

https://www.delta-optimist.com/local-news/bc-new-housing-minister-kahlon-ready-for-important-role-6221566

Unique Delta Housing Solution

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 04:49:36 GMT

Tsawwassen retiree who was able to construct a perfectly-sized accessory dwelling unit (what we call secondary suites in Delta).

Link to article:

https://www.strongtowns.org/journal/2022/10/5/a-loophole-allowed-me-to-flourish

Author: Norm Van Eeden Petersen Member Advocate

Strong Towns

norm@strongtowns.org

Del- POP Event -September 21st, 2022 - "Breaking Out of the Housing Trap"

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 23:05:22 GMT

Del-POP is hosting Charles Marohn of Strong Towns. Charles will be speaking on "Breaking free of the housing trap" on September 21 at 7:15PM at the Ladner United Church.

Please go to the following link for more information and to register at delpop.ca/rsvp

What is Delta doing about poverty, affordable housing?

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 17:02:42 GMT

Housing affordability and the lack of housing options are high ranking concerns for many, how is Delta contributing to the solution?

"With upcoming civic elections, voters should remember that municipalities shape the future of communities and the type of housing options that will be available decades into the future,” said Jill Atkey, CEO of BC Non-Profit Housing Association, in the news release.

“While the challenges are clear, there are also solutions. British Columbia’s non-profit housing sector has the solutions and expertise to be an essential partner for local governments to help solve the housing crisis.”

Link to Delta Optimist article:

https://www.delta-optimist.com/local-news/what-is-delta-doing-about-poverty-affordable-housing-5589241

Housing Inclusivity - Can It Be Measured?

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 23:10:30 GMT

YES, a tool has been developed to measure inclusive housing. The tool is in the testing stage. The purpose, is to help people plan and build housing that is more inclusive for everyone, including people with intellectual disabilities.

Housing-Inclusivity-Information-Sheet-1 (3).pdf

Province of BC acknowledges October as Community Inclusion Month

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 03:57:46 GMT

Dan Coulter, Parliamentary Secretary for Accessibility announces the celerbration of October as Community Inclusion Month. Link to announcement:

https://fb.watch/8NX7WgT_jJ/

CELEBRATING COMMUNITY INCLUSION MONTH

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 22:15:58 GMT

Delta Housing Be Mine Society invites everyone, friends, families, businesses and organizations to come and celebrate, "Community Inclusion" during the month of October 2021. As proclaimed by the Province of BC, the focus of this year's Community Inclusion month is INCLUSIVE HOUSING "because all people have the right to live and belong in their community and everyone deserves a place to call home."