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.

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.

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.

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

"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

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/

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/

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! ❤️

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 

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