Finding a Place to Call Home: Housing Challenges for People with Disabilities in BC

My name is Jo-Anne Gauthier. I am a self-advocate in British Columbia. I speak up for the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I am on multiple committees for advancing accessibility in my community. And I am part of many advocacy groups and projects. I work on things locally, provincially, and nationally.

I am a long-time member of BC People First Society. Being part of BC People First has helped me find my voice and stand up for my rights. I encourage all self-advocates in BC to join. When we come together, we are stronger.

I am also part of ACORN, a group that fights for fair housing and better living conditions for people with low and moderate incomes.

Housing is one of the biggest issues I hear about.

A home is more than a place to sleep. It is where we feel safe, comfortable, and part of our community. But for many people with disabilities, finding a good place to live is not easy.

What’s going on?

Housing in BC is expensive. There are not enough affordable places. For people with disabilities, it can be even harder.

Many people face:

• High rent they cannot afford

• Long waitlists for housing and supports

• Homes that are not accessible

• Not enough choice about where to live

• Landlords who do not understand their needs

Some people are waiting for years. Others are living in places that do not meet their needs. Some are far from their friends, family, and community supports.

Why this matters

Housing is about:

• Independence

• Dignity

• Safety

• Belonging

When we don’t have the right home, it affects our health, our relationships, and our ability to be part of the community.

Everyone deserves a home where they feel respected.

Why ACORN cares

ACORN brings people together to stand up for their rights.

ACORN cares about housing because:

• Everyone deserves a safe and affordable home

• Many people are being priced out of their communities

• Renters need stronger protections

• People with disabilities are often left out of decisions

We organize, speak up, and push for change together.

What needs to change

We need action from government. Here are a few key changes that would make a real difference:

• Increase disability income so people can afford rent and basic needs

• Build more affordable and accessible housing in every community

• Shorten waitlists for housing and support services

• Give people more choice about where and how they live

• Protect renters with disabilities and stop discrimination

• Include self-advocates in decisions about housing

These changes are about fairness. People with disabilities should not be left behind.

A message to people without disabilities

You may not see these challenges, but they are real.

You can help by:

• Listening to self-advocates

• Challenging stigma and assumptions

• Speaking up for fair housing

• Supporting inclusive communities

When everyone is included, communities are stronger.

Moving forward

I believe change is possible.

Through BC People First, ACORN, and self-advocates across the province, we are speaking up and making change.

If you are a self-advocate, I encourage you to join BC People First and get involved. Your voice matters.

We all deserve a place to call home.