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Recording of "Getting Your Own Place: Myths and Facts, Part 1

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Recording of "Getting Your Own Place: Myths and Facts, Part 1

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You can maximize the screen to get a better view. If you would like to see the captions, click the "CC" button.

Image description: A screen shot of the presentation, showing a photo of a person with arms outstretched in a gym. Text to the left reads: ""[I like living in a group home because] there's always somebody to talk to." Jamie C., Bucks County."

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Getting Your Own Place: Myths and Facts, Part 1

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This is a program that provides emergency support professionals information that can help them provide better assistance to you. Check with your local community services to see if they participate in this program.

Image description: yellow box with faint graphic for Good Morning America, a program that highlighted the Smart911 service.

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Smart911's lifesaving service has been recognized by thousands of trusted sources across the country and goes through an annual SOC 2 with HIPAA/HITECH assessment to confirm all security controls are appropriate and effective.

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Smart911's lifesaving service has been recognized by thousands of trusted sources across the country and goes through an annual SOC 2 with HIPAA/HITECH assessment to confirm all security controls are appropriate and effective.

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This program provides mortgage loans to help people with disabilities who are purchasing a home that needs accessibility modifications.

Image description: Screenshot of the PHFA website, with a banner at the top showing photos of smiling customers, and text below outlining their program guidelines.

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Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA)

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ACCESS Home Modification Assistance | Home Improvement & Repair Loans

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ACCESS Home Modification assistance loan for persons with disabilities. Learn more about loan programs from PHFA for home improvements and repairs. Contact us with any questions.

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The 988 lifeline provides access to counselors who can talk to about mental health issues, drug or alcohol concerns, or just someone to talk to.

Image description: left side of picture shows an ombre purple graphic with a box reading "988 Suicide & Crisis lifeline". The right side shows a graphic of outstretched hands holding a pink heart and the words "There is hope."

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Skip to main content

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

988

¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!
Haga clic aquí para obtener información sobre cómo acceder a todos los servicios en español.

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Stock photo by iStock.

The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We're committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.

About The Lifeline

Anyone could be struggling with suicide. Find more specific resources below.

I'm Struggling With Individuals with Neurodivergence

We understand that every struggle is different. Experience the stories of people like you, and how they overcame crisis to find hope and recovery.
read stories of hope & recovery

First, you'll hear an automated message featuring additional options while your call is routed to your local 988 Lifeline network crisis center.

We'll play you a little music while we connect you to a skilled, trained crisis worker.

A trained crisis worker at your local center will answer the phone.

This person will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and get you the help you need.

988 Lifeline Center calls are free and confidential, and we're available 24/7.

Show What Happens When You Call The Lifeline

Everyone Plays A Role In Suicide Prevention

Get in touch

Call the Lifeline

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Skip to main content We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. 988 ¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!

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PA211 updates this list of Coordinated Entry contacts for counties in Pennsylvania. Coordinated Entry is a system that helps you apply for affordable housing.

Image description: Logo for PA211, with a blue speech bubble with the numbers 2, 1, 1, and the slogan "Pennsylvania Get connected. Get help"

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If you need to connect with resources in your community, but don’t know where to look, PA 211 is a great place to start. From help with a utilities bill, to housing assistance, after-school programs for kids, and more, you can dial 211 or text your zip code to #898-211 to talk with a resource specialist for free.

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Housing information and resources for Pennsylvania Homeowners

Image description: Blue background with sylized white rooftops and the letters PHFA

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Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA)

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Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA)

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PA HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY | OFFICIAL HOMEPAGE

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PA Housing Finance Agency Official Website | Mortgage Loans; Homebuyer Counseling; Foreclosure Prevention; Rental & Senior Housing Opportunities

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If you live in Eastern Pennsylvania, this is a great resource for affordable housing.

Image description: a white background with with the text "Pennsylvania Continuums of Care, "Pennsylvaniacoc.org", the site which contains information for the Coordinate Entry System

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What Is the Connect To Home Coordinated Entry System of Eastern PA?

Connect To Home: Coordinated Entry System of Eastern PA (CES) coordinates and manages access, assessment, prioritization and referral to housing and services for any person(s) experiencing or at imminent risk of homelessness in the following counties: Adams, Bedford, Blair, Bradford, Cambria, Carbon, Centre, Clinton, Columbia, Cumberland, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lebanon, Lehigh, Lycoming, Mifflin, Monroe, Montour, Northampton, Northumberland, Perry, Pike, Schuylkill, Somerset, Snyder, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, Union, Wayne and Wyoming.

Participation in CES is required for all projects funded by HUD Continuum of Care or Emergency Solutions Grants (including those administered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania) and strongly encouraged for all other housing and service providers in order to ensure equitable and coordinated access for all.

How Do People Access Connect To Home?

If you live in the Eastern PA Connect To Home service area and are experiencing homelessness, simply call 211 or 855-567-5341 toll-free for information, screening and referral.

You can also contact Connect To Home by texting your zip code to 898-211 or by visiting a Connect To Home Access Site in your community where available.

If you would prefer to receive Coordinated Entry services face-to-face in person, please visit a Connect To Home Access Site in your community. Access Site locations and hours of operation can be found here: Eastern PA CoC Coordinated Entry Access Sites

How Do I Become a Connect To Home Referral Partner Organization?

Connect To Home Referral Partners accept appropriate program referrals from Coordinated Entry Specialists. Coordinated Entry Specialists make direct referrals to homeless prevention and emergency services, including Emergency Shelter and Transitional Housing (both of the latter through HMIS). Rapid Re-Housing and Permanent Supportive Housing providers receive their referrals from the Community Queue prioritization list in PA HMIS. The Community Queue has special protocols for both veterans and survivors of domestic violence to ensure they are connected to appropriate housing and services. You can find a current list of the organizations with signed Connect to Home CES Partnership Agreements here.

To become a Connect to Home Referral Partner, please download the Connect To Home Partnership Agreement.

What Policies and Procedures Are Used By Connect To Home Coordinated Entry Specialists and Referral Partners?

The Connect To Home: Coordinated Entry System of Eastern PA Policy Manual details the CoC-approved policies and procedures that must be followed by any organization participating in CES, either as Coordinated Entry providers and/or referral partners.

Coordinated Entry System Regional Managers are responsible for CES oversight, Community Queue management, provider training, community outreach and customer satisfaction in their region and may be contacted for questions or information about processes, policies, procedures and forms in the Policy Manual.

What Tool Does Connect To Home Use For Assessment, Prioritization and Referral?

The Eastern PA CoC has selected the Vulnerability Index - Service Prioritization Decision Assistance Tool (VI-SPDAT) as its Coordinated Entry assessment tool. There is no formal training, license or fee required to use the VI-SPDAT.

Who Do I Contact For More Information About Connect To Home?

Jason D. Alexander, Capacity for Change, LLC, Eastern PA CoC Coordinated Entry System Consultant

Email: jason@capacityforchange.com

Telephone: 610.793.5063

Eastern PA CoC Coordinated Entry System Committee Members

Leslie Perryman, Resources for Human Development - Committee Chair

Jason Alexander, Capacity for Change LLC, Consultant

Leigh Howard, Diana T. Myers and Associates

Stacy Yurko, Franklin County Human Services

Carol Thornton, Partnership for Better Health

Keshia Conway, Clinton County Housing Coalition

Liana Riutort, Pocono Mountains United Way

Randi Bannon, Victims' Intervention Program of Monroe County

Mary Penny, Diana T. Myers and Associates

Brendan Auman, PA Dept. of Community and Economic Development

Kelly Bowen, Valley Youth House

Timaki Johnson, Family Promise of Monroe County

Alexandra Cantrell, Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence

Kyle Vickers, PA 211

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Connect to Home: Coordinated Entry System of Eastern PA | Pennsylvania Continuums of Care

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Connect To Home: Coordinated Entry System of Eastern PA (CES) coordinates and manages access, assessment, prioritization and referral to housing and services for any person(s) experiencing or at imminent risk of homelessness in the following counties: Adams, Bedford, Blair, Bradford, Cambria, Carbon, Centre, Clinton, Columbia, Cumberland, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lebanon, Lehigh, Lycoming, Mifflin, Monroe, Montour, Northampton, Northumberland, Perry, Pike, Schuylkill, Somerset, Snyder, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, Union, Wayne and Wyoming.

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ODP Waiver services that may help you live more independently

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ODP Waiver services that may help you live more independently

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This is a list of services that might help you live more independently if you have an ODP (Office Of developmental programs) Waiver.

Image description: Screenshot of a document, the words "Supported living" are visible in bold text, with additional, plan text above and below.

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List of  Waiver Services that can provide support when you get your own place

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Community Action Association of Pennsylvania

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Community Action Association of Pennsylvania

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A hub for resources and connections throughout the State

Image description: a blue outline of the state of Pennsylvania on a maroon background

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Community Action Association of Pennsylvania

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Julie’s Story: A Testament to the Power of Whole-Family Support

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Community Action Association of Pennsylvania

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Learn more about the people we interviewed for this project

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Learn more about the people we interviewed for this project

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Chris D. — Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council’s   Housing Myth Busting grant.  The goal of our project is to break down some common myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.  Along with our partner

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: William B — Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council’s Housing Myth Busting grant.  The goal of our project is to break down some common myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.  Along with our partners fro

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Kris L. — Families CCAN

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Kris L Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council’s   Housing Myth Busting grant.  The goal of our project is to break down some common myths, or falsehoods, about housing for ad

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Jenny C. and David C. (part 1) — Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council’s   Housing Myth Busting grant.  The goal of our project is to break down some common myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.  Along with our

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Ellen G. — Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council’s Housing Myth Busting grant.  The goal of our project is to break down some common myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.  Along with our partners from

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Lori M. — Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council’s   Housing Myth Busting grant.  The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.  Along wi

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Housing Myth Busting Community spotlight: Alexa B. — Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council’s   Housing Myth Busting grant.  The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.  Along wi

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Housing Myth Busting Community spotlight: Thalia D. — Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council’s   Housing Myth Busting grant.  The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.  Along with ou

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Tyleyia C. — Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council’s   Housing Myth Busting grant.  The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.  Along wi

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's Housing Myth Busting grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.

Along with our partners from Self Advocates United as One (SAU1), we are sharing information about Independent Living for Adults with disabilities.

As part of our project, we are sharing a series of Community Spotlight Interviews. These interviews highlight the stories of individuals with disabilities who are living independently in the community.

Our Next Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight Interviewee is Thomas H. Thomas lives in an apartment in Cumberland County.

A long-time advocate for people with disabilities, Thomas is involved with a number of organizations, including and SAU1. He is also a photographer and has been volunteering at the Civil War Museum for over 15 years, sharing his love of History with the public.

Thomas was interviewed by Housing Myth Busting team members Gretchen and Elijah. This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity, but the words are all Thomas's own.
Can you tell us a little about where you live?
"Okay, I live in [Cumberland County], Pennsylvania. It's on the West shore.

And [my town is] actually a historic town because it goes back to the time of the American Civil War."
Oh wow. So it's a small town?
"Well, it's not really a small town. I consider it a small city-town. It's got a small town feel but yet it's very large in distance."
And, do you live in an apartment?
"Yes, I do live in an apartment. "
Okay, and so you rent?
"Yes, that is correct."
Thomas, How long have you been living on your own?
"I'd say I've been living on my own for probably a good two decades."
What is one thing you know now that you wish you'd known before you started living on your own?
"Oh, I would have to say the cost of everything. It can get very costly living on your own with rent, electricity, food and whatever."
That's a really good example. Thank you.
"You're welcome."
What are some steps you took before you moved from your family home to get really to live in your place?
"I would have to say that I had to find a place that I can afford to live in, first of all. Because I live in a Section 8 housing apartment. . . . It's interesting living in a section 8 housing apartment."
Who helped you plan your move to your own place?
"That would be my brother's wife."
What sort of things did you do with your sister-in-law to get ready?
"Well, first of all, being as I have a heart condition, to help me move stuff, cause I can't do a lot of stuff. Like that. Plus she helped me with the money and everything else, paperwork."
Is that who helped you apply for Section 8? Because I know that's a lengthy process.
"Yeah. . . . I've been here for almost 17 years."
How are you paying for living In your own place?
"I'm on Social Security, Social Security Disability."
And do you feel you are receiving enough support?
"Yes, I have family support and friend support."
What skill do you think has been most important for living on your own?
"Oh boy, there's a couple of them. I'd say being able to find transportation, cooking, cleaning, doing laundry-- I mean there's a whole list."
What is one thing that is wonderful about living in your own place?
"I can come and go when I please."
Yes, that's nice. Do you have housemates? Why or why not?
"No. Well, this is only a single-only apartment building."
Do you have social spaces in your community that you use or go to frequently?
"There is a town park that I sometimes go to."
Do you feel included in your neighborhood?
"Oh, the only people I really know are my neighbors in my building. I don't know too many people outside of my building."
What advice do you have for other people with disabilities who are thinking about getting their own place?
"I think it's very right. . . if someone with a disability wants to live on their own--become independent--I think it's a very important step in their lives."
How do you get around your neighborhood?
"Basically walking. I can't drive because of health concerns."
Do you have to have stores around you?
"There are a few. Most of the businesses are on [the highway]. It's where the bigger businesses are. But there are stores around, just in town here.
What do you like to do In your free time around your apartment?
"Oh boy, I think my basic one is photography. I'm an avid photographer."
Oh cool! What are your subjects?
"Basically I've been taking pictures around town here and plus I'm a volunteer with the National Civil War Museum, so I take pictures from there. I have my own photography Page on Facebook."
Thomas, I've been to the Civil War museum, and I really, really liked it!
"I'm a volunteer there. Yeah, I've been volunteering there for well over a decade. I started almost, probably, I will say 16 maybe 17 years ago."
That's awesome. What do you do there?
"I have a Civil War replica items table. I'm located in the second floor exhibit hall. . . . Plus I also volunteer here with my local museum, The Mechanicsburg Museum Association. . . . I'm [also] a Board member with the Greater Harrisburg Autism society. I also run an adult ASD support group, Spectrum Friends, and I'm a blogger with ASD Next, and I'm also a member of a podcast cafe group. For those with a disability and/or autism. . . . I'm also on a committee for Health Insurance for those aging adults on the Spectrum. And I just got an invite for another committee."
You're really doing a lot of advocating for others. That's wonderful.
"Yes, I'm a well known self-advocate. I have two advocacy awards to my name. . . . I have an autism advocacy award and I also have a disability award. . . .I'm well known in Pennsylvania. [My group] Spectrum Friends--I'm the head of the group, or the leader. I've been doing that for 8 years now. . . .Our meetings, it's what's called a hybrid meeting. It's both in-person and on Zoom. . . . We've got over 20 members right now. We meet on the fourth Wednesday each month at the Giant in Camp Hill, in the community center on the second floor at 6:30 pm.
Is there anything else that you'd like to share?
"I just want to thank you for inviting me to be a part of this interview. I am a part of the SAU1 Organization too. I'm the new advisor to the board."
The information you provided is so valuable to people with disabilities.
"I'm glad I was able to help."
This project is funded by the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council . To learn more about the project and how you can get involved, please visit our .

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Thomas H. - Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's Housing Myth Busting grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities. Along with our partners f

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.

Along with our partners from Self Advocates United as One (SAU1), we are sharing information about Independent Living for Adults with disabilities.

As part of our project, we are sharing a series of Community Spotlight Interviews. These interviews highlight the stories of individuals with disabilities who are living in the community.

Our next Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight Interviewee is Jamie C. Jamie lives in a Community Living Arrangement in Bucks County. Jamie balances her time between work and her favorite leisure activities--art, basketball, cooking, and shopping.

Jamie was interviewed by Gretchen, Housing Myth Busting team member and SAU1 power coach. Jamie's mom, Kathy, assisted with the interview when Jamie requested her help. For clarity, Kathy's quotes are in italics. This interview has been lightly edited for length, but the words are all their own.
Thank you for agreeing to this interview, Jamie. We know you live on your own. The information you will provide is so valuable to people with disabilities. . . . Can you tell us a little bit about where you live? Is it a city, a small town, suburban, or a rural area?
"A small town."
Is it an apartment, a townhouse or a house?
"A house."

How long have you lived there?

"5 years."
Did you get to choose where you live?
"Yes."

How did you make this choice?

"With [help from] Mom, Dad, and [the CLA administrator at the time].
What kinds of choices do you have about your day to day life? For example, do you plan meals?
"I help the staff."
[Do you get to] plan your weekend activities?
"I paint my nails, I color, I go out shopping."
[Did you get to] decorate your own room?
"We planned it together. It's painted blue."
What is one thing you know now that you wish you'd known before you moved out of your family home?
"I'm home right now. I can come home whenever I want."

Who helped you plan your move?

"Mom, Dad, and [the CLA administrator]."
What are some steps you took before you moved from your family home?
Kathy: "You had to go to the doctor, right, and get a physical, right?"

Jamie: "Yes."

Kathy: "And we had to fill out a lot of paperwork. Right?"

Jamie: "Yes."
Was there some stuff from you from this house you took with you?
Kathy: "Did you take some of your pictures from here?"

Jamie: "Yes. I left the rest here."

Kathy: "When she left here, we went and bought her new things, new curtains. Whatever she wanted for her room".
Do you feel you are receiving enough support? What are those so supports?
"Yes. They clip my nails. They take me to work in the van."

What skill do you think has been most important for living in the CLA?

"Being kind and be polite with [my housemates]."
Good skills, Jamie. Thank you for sharing. Oh, here's a favorite question to ask. What is one thing that is wonderful about living [in your CLA]?
"Everything."
Do you have housemates?
"Yes, two."
Did you get to choose who they are?
"No."
Jamie, do you feel included in your neighborhood?
"Yes."
Good answer. Thank you. Do you have social spaces in your community that you use or go to frequently? Such as a gym, restaurant, coffee shop, or community center?
"The park. . . I can play basketball."
Any spaces you would like to have?
"Ross."
Where are some places that you like to go?
Jamie: "Homegoods with Mom and Walmart. I go to the mall with Mom on Saturdays. Bowling."

Kathy: "[The CLA staff] will take her anywhere, but because she's with us on the weekends, it works out that we take her a lot of places."

Jamie, what do you like to do for fun? I heard bowling. Do you like bowling?

"Yes. I like baseball, soccer, basketball."
So you are athletic! And Jamie, do you like to dance?
"Yes."
And do you like Bingo?
"Yes."
What advice do you have for other people with disabilities who are thinking about moving out on their own?
Jamie: "I'm happy. I like living in [my CLA because] there's always somebody to talk to."

Kathy: "In terms of the process of moving in, first they pick the house-- and Jamie moved in during COVID, so it was a little different, but normally, first you go for dinner, and then they go for a sleepover, a couple dinners, a couple sleepovers. But Jamie just got to do a couple of dinners, and then it was like, time to move in. We told her that she didn't have to move during COVID, but she said, "I'm an adult. I have to move into my own place now.""
And you like to do crafts, right?
"Yes, with the staff."

Kathy: "They do crafts--all kinds of things--board games, they even play bingo."

Jamie: "I like Bingo."

Kathy: "And she watches her IPad and exercises by herself. They used to exercise together, but not everyone liked it."
That sounds really nice.
Kathy: "We are blessed with the home she is in. We are blessed. I come and go as I want. I walk in there any time of day. I just go in and say, "I'm here!" And so far, everything's always been on the up and up. . . . She comes home almost every weekend. We pick her up Friday night and then she goes home Sunday. And every other Sunday she goes to church. [Her church] has a special program, so she goes with her housemate, and she likes that. You like going to church with [your housemate], right?

Jamie: "Yes".
I heard that you cook. What's your favorite thing to cook?
Jamie: "Chicken"

Kathy: "Jamie likes to cook [at her house], and she also helps to cook at [our house]. She made a cake on Saturday. She has good cooking skills."
You did such a good job answering the questions. I feel like we really got to know you. I think I might like to come over for dinner
"Thank you."

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Jamie C. - Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's Housing Myth Busting grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities. Along

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.

Along with our partners from Self Advocates United as One (SAU1), we are sharing information about Independent Living for Adults with disabilities.

As part of our project, we are sharing a series of Community Spotlight Interviews. These interviews highlight the stories of individuals with disabiltiiles who are living independently in the community.

Our Next Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight Interviewee is Danessa. Danessa lives in an apartment in Bucks county. She works 5 days a week and spends her free time with friends and family, participating in sports and crafting.

Danessa was interviewed by SAU1 Power Coaches and Housing Myth Busting team members Gretchen and Elijah. This interview has been lightly edited for length, but the words are all Danessa's own.
Thank you for agreeing to this interview, Danessa. We know you live on your own. The information you provide is so valuable. Do you live in a city, a small town, or a suburb, or a rural area?
"Rural."
Is it an apartment, a duplex, or a house?
"An apartment. . . . I lived with my parents. My parents passed away. My sister and brother raised me. I moved out to Quakertown with two ther roommates, and then I moved here. I work at a day program."
Who helped you plan your move to your own place?
"My support staff and my sister"
How are you paying for living in your own place?
"I pay rent. My social security covers my room and board."
Do you feel you are receiving enough support? What are those supports?
"Yes, my staff, my case worker, and my work people at my job. And my sister."
What are some steps you took before you moved before you moved from your family home in order to get ready to live in your own place?
"At first, I didn't want to move out of my parent's place with my sister, but my sister has her own family and she wanted me to live on my own and live in a house with two other girls. I practiced cooking and cleaning. I cook chicken, steak, pork chops, sausage, eggs. . . ."
What skill do you think has been most important to living on your own? How do you get around?
"I can walk outside, across the street, to take walks, but the only issue is that I need rides to stores. When I lived [in town], I could walk all over the place, but here, I can't walk to stores. I have to have staff take me places."
What is one thing that is wonderful about living in your own place?
"It's much quieter, and I can have the bathroom to myself. I don't have to share the bathroom or the laundry room. I live by myself now. "
Do you feel included in your neighborhood?
"Yeah, I have neighbors around, they're friendly."
Do you have social spaces in your community that you use or go to frequently?
"QMart, Walmart, and Target pretty much every day."
What do you like to do in your free time?
"I do bowling. I do soccer. I have a brother and sister who live [nearby]. I had parents, but they passed away, and I was raised by my brother and sister. When my brother moved out, he moved to Philly, then my sister and her husband stayed in my parents' house and I moved to [a house] with two other roommates. I didn't get along with them, so I moved to [this apartment], and now I get to see my sister more."
What kind of fun things do you like to do in your apartment?
"I do crafts. I like to clean. I like to listen to music. I like to take walks. . . . I talk to my friends on the Echo machine and . . . we do sports together. "
What kind of arts and crafts do you like to do?
" My sister got some stencils for me on canvas boards" {Danessa took a moment to show the artwork to the group, all agreed that it was lovely.}
Danessa, your apartment looks nice!
"Thank you. I have lots of little knick-knacks."
Are there spaces in your community where you make art?
"My sister orders some stuff for me to do [at home]."

Do you do those just for yourself?

"I do them for myself, and then I put them on my shelf for decoration".
What advice would you have for other people with disabilities who are thinking of getting their own place?
"It was hard for me to move out of my parents' house, because I wanted to stay with my sister, but it was too much. I moved out on my own with two other roommates. It was hard in the beginning for me to move. I just didn't want to leave my sister. . . . I'm happy I did now, though. It was scary [at the time].
Is there anything that made the transition easier?
"Now it's fine, where I'm at, but in the beginning it was hard for me to get up and pack my stuff and go. I wanted to stay, but my sister [encouraged] me to be on my own and do stuff."
What are some things that you enjoy now about living on your own?
"[Before], I had two other roommates. It was three bedrooms and one bathroom, and a laundry room in the basement, so we had to share the laundry and share the bathroom. Now I just have to share with my staff. (laughing) I tell them all the time to leave a tip for me. [My staff person] knows I'm messing with him."
How long did you live in the other house with your housemates?
"It was when I was in my thirties, for a year or two. It wasn't long."

And how long have you been in your current apartment?

"Since 2014".
You mentioned that you work. Do you work every day?
"I work everyday Monday through Friday. I didn't work this Tuesday, because of the snow. Unless there's snow -- then [my staff] tells me that the roads are bad, and the vans are grounded, and I should stay home. I work with adults. . . . Before Covid, I used to go in and feed them, and take them for walks, go do stuff. Now, since Covid hit, I just do laundry, take them off the bus, take them to their rooms, take towels, whatever they need."
Those sound like really important jobs.
"Yeah. From 8:30 to 12:30. It used to be 10:00-2:00. I want to go back, but I'm not sure if my boss will want me from 10:00 to 2:00 again."
It sounds like you have a full life and a beautiful apartment. Is there anything else that you would like to share about living on your own?
"[laughing] I've covered it."
This project is funded by the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council . To learn more about the project and how you can get involved, please visit our

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Danessa M. - Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's Housing Myth Busting grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities. Alon

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.

Along with our partners from Self Advocates United as One (SAU1), we are sharing information about Independent Living for Adults with disabilities.

As part of our project, we are sharing a series of Community Spotlight Interviews. These interviews highlight the stories of individuals with disabiltiiles who are living independently in the community.

Our Next Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight Interviewee is Elijah C. Elijah is an SAU1 Power Coach and a member of the Housing Myth Busting team. He holds a degree from Slippery Rock College and lives in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. In addition to his advocacy work, Elijah enjoys cooking, swimming, and art.

Elijah was interviewed by his SAU1 colleague Gretchen. This interview has been lightly edited for length, but the words are all his own.
Elijah, we know that you live on your own. The information that you provide is so valuable to people with disabilities. Our first question: Elijah, do you live in a city, a small town, or a suburban or rural area?
"[It] is really a small town."
Do you live in an apartment, a townhouse, duplex, or house?
"I live in an apartment."
What is one thing you know now that you wish you'd known before you lived on your own?
"When I moved to [this town] last year, in the late summer of 2022, I was doing an internship for my bachelor's degree in Social work with a service provider, which is based here . . . . I was hoping that when the internship was over that I would be able to get a job with them or one of the other social service agencies in [this town] or Mercer county. There's quite a few different service providers in Mercer county. But I ended up getting my job with SAU-1, which is mainly remote work, since they moved their office from Greenville, so I guess I wish I would have known before I moved here that I wouldn't be working at an in-person job right here in [town]."
Who helped you plan your move to your own place?
"My family, my parents helped me with everything. My dad found the apartment and helped me apply for the lease and my family gave me most of my furniture and helped me move it in."
How are you paying for living in your own place?
"My job with SAU1 is my main source of income right now."
Do you feel you are receiving enough support? What are those supports?
"I think so. The main support I need right now is transportation, which I mostly get from my parents, although sometimes I get transportation from co-workers to work events or transportation from Mercer County Community Transit, which runs within the county."
What are some steps you took before you moved from your family home to get ready to live in your own place?
"I actually lived on campus at Slippery Rock University during my senior year there in one of their dormitories, so that probably helped prepare me the most for my experience of living on my own here. Having to really set my own schedule, wake up on my own without anyone else there to make sure I do. And that was also when I really learned to do my own laundry, so that was really important."
What skill do you think has been most important for living on your own?
"I'd say knowing how to make my own meals and do my own laundry."
What is one thing that is wonderful about living in your own place?
"I really like all of the space I have. There's several closets. Two of them are walk-in--big enough to walk around in a little. My apartment complex has an outdoor pool, which I used a lot this past summer. The grounds are nice to walk around, too."
Do you feel included in your neighborhood?
"I think so. My apartment community, they do some events like parties at different times during the year. I haven't been to any of those yet, but all the interactions I've had with neighbors have all been pleasant."
How do you get around your neighborhood?
"If I want to go shopping or go far from the apartments I usually need to get transportation from my parents, or if I planned ahead for it, I could get transportation from Mercer County Community Transit."
Are there any things you want to share about your independent life that weren't included in these questions?
"I think I pretty much shared most of it. My daily schedule is pretty consistent right now. I guess maybe I wish I was a little bit more socially active outside of work and my family right now."
What do you like to cook?
"I really like to make salads. I make a lot of salads with chicken. I make pasta dishes, too. Mainly spaghetti and meatballs, and pancakes from a mix. I also like to make eggs in a lot of different ways, including omelets. I really like to make those. That's another goal I have, is to learn to make even more different kinds of meals."
"Is there anything you like to do for fun, Elijah?"
In the summer I really enjoyed going swimming in the apartment pool. I wish I could still do that in the winter, but of course it's not indoors. That was a good source of exercise. Other than that, during my free time, I like to read or draw or watch television. I should make more time for [drawing] than I do.
This project is funded by the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council . To learn more about the project and how you can get involved, please visit our .

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Elijah C. - Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's Housing Myth Busting grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities. Along with o

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, about housing for adults with disabilities.

Along with our partners from Self Advocates United as One (SAU1), we are sharing information about Independent Living for Adults with disabiltiies.

Over the coming months, we will be sharing a series of Community Spotlight Interviews. These interviews highlight the stories of individuals with disabiltiiles who are living independently in the community.

Our next Community Spotlight interviewee is Aldyn A. She works and lives in Philadelphia, and enjoys spending time with her parents and her sisters. Aldyn is an excellent chef, and also enjoys walking, yoga, and taking pictures. She has been with the same employer for over 19 years, and currently works 3 days per week. Aldyn also shares her knowledge of healthy eating, meal prep, cooking, and kitchen safety as an instructor for Families CCAN's Peer to Peer workshop.

Aldyn was interviewed by SAU1 team members Gretchen and Elijah. This interview has been lightly edited for length, but the words are all her own.

Where do you live?

"In the city of Philadelphia, in a studio apartment. . . . It's easy to move around."
Do you own your home or rent it?
"I rent it."
How long have you lived on your own?
"Four years as of January 2024."
Do you have housemates - why or why not?
"No, I live by myself. I used to have housemates when I was living at school, but we didn't get along well. I used to live in a small apartment in New York with roommates when I was in school. I used to live in a group home in New York."
Who helped you plan your move to your own place?
"My parents, because I graduated and I was doing well at my job, so we took the next step."
What are some steps you took before you moved from your family home to get ready to live in your own place?
"I had to make sure that I knew that I would have enough money. I looked online at different kinds of apartments. . . . My sister Norrell used to live in this apartment, that's how I found it. Moving costs a lot. You have to figure out how to pay the landlord. You also have to think about moving trucks and moving boxes. You have to map things out around the house. You have to make sure you inspect the apartment. You have to set up cable or Wi-Fi, and for some people you have to set up heat, or have someone else help you do that."
How are you paying for living in your own place?
"My parents help. My mom and dad and I are all on the same lease. I work to pay for the rent. I use my PA ABLE account as well, to pay my rent. I also use Quicken on my computer to help me manage my money."
Do you feel you are receiving enough support now that you're living on your own?
"Yes, my family and apartment staff and some other people help. My family comes once a week to help me straighten things up. The maintenance staff comes if I need them to fix something. I call them a lot. Last year, suddenly my washing machine didn't work. I heard a loud noise, and it didn't make any other noise after that. I called my mom and she told me to write to maintenance, and they came and told me that I needed a new washing machine. And another time, when I first moved in, I was taking a shower and it was very cold because I didn't have any hot water. And they had to come and give me a new water heater."
What skill do you think has been most important for living on your own?
"I'd say cooking, and you have to know how to eat healthy."
What is 1 thing that is wonderful about living in your own place?
"Being independent. I don't have to listen to anyone telling me what to do."
Do you feel included in your neighborhood?
"Yes, I feel like I am a part of the community."
Do you have social spaces in your community that you use or go to frequently, such as coffee shops, a gym, or the library?
"I go to the gym, and my place-once a month-has events here. Monthly events. And sometimes I go to stores in the neighborhood, like the market. I would like to have someone I could go places with--someone I could walk around with. I live near a nice walking trail and I have access to sidewalks."
What is 1 thing you know now that you wish you'd known before you moved into your own place?
"I have two answers. I didn't know that my job was so close-- I used to take the long way, but now I take a shortcut. I didn't know about the fire drills in my apartment until I moved in. I am getting used to them now, but they still startle me when the alarms go off. Also, in an apartment, you have to take the trash out and the doors are very heavy. And I didn't know that I could grow plants in my apartment. And now I have a lot of plants."
Have you always felt so positive about living independently, or was it a little rocky at the beginning?
"It was a little rocky because before I moved into this place, I went to school and got really depressed because they weren't helping me. . . . I talked to my dad, and he thought it would be a good thing for me to move to an apartment. But it was taking a long time, and I saw my sisters, and they were out living on their own. When I was at school, I lived in New York. I was learning new skills, like computer skills, but it didn't work out."
And now you're living in Philadelphia, closer to your parents. Do you think that has contributed to your success?
"Yeah, I think so. . . . I live near my parents and my sister. My other sister lives in Maryland."
You said that you have had to call maintenance before. Did they address your concerns quickly?
"Yes. They came right away, on the same day. There is an app that you can fill out where you can give them permission to come in, to enter. It's easier than calling. And sometimes if you see them in person, you can ask them to put in a request for you, as well."
Is transportation easy for you where you live?
"I am learning how to Uber, and I can walk to my job, and every Wednesday I do it by myself now, little step by step. I walked with my mom first."
Do you have any advice for other people with disabilities who are thinking about getting their own place?
"I'd say get to know the staff where you want to live, and keep a file for all of your paperwork and contracts. Get to know people at the apartment. It's okay to ask for help. When I first moved, my parents stayed here at night until I got used to it, and they would leave when I said to go. It's okay to ask for help. Some things might be scary, but it will get easier. And I also had a white noise machine to help me sleep better and relax. Everyone can do it, no matter whether you have a disability or not. Always keep trying, and you can do it regardless."

This project is funded by the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council To learn more about the project and how you can get involved, please visit our .

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Aldyn A. - Families CCAN

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Aldyn A. Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's Housing Myth Busting grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths, or falsehoods, abou

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths-or falsehoods- about housing for adults with disabilities.

Along with our partners from Self Advocates United as One (SAU1), we are sharing information about Independent Living for Adults with disabilities.

Over the coming months, we will be sharing a series of Community Spotlight Interviews. These interviews highlight the stories of individuals with disabiltiiles who are living independently in the community.

Our first Community Spotlight interviewee is Michael, who lives in his own home in Philadelphia County. Michael is 65 years old and lives alone. Before retiring, he worked in a nursing home and in a flower shop. He has strong connections to his family and to the Arts Community in the Philadlephia region.

This is Michael's Community Spotlight interview. It has been lightly edited for length, but the words are all his own.
Where do you live?
"I live in Philadelphia. I live in a house. I am a homeowner. I'd like to advise other people with disabilities to be a homeowner like I am."
What is one thing you know now that you wish you'd known before you lived on your own?
"I wish I'd known that it's a lot of responsibility to own a house. There's a lot of upkeep to the homes. I'm glad I can hang on to the house. [Homeowners] have to pay property tax and homeowner's insurance and mortgage payments."
Who helped you plan to live on your own?
"I taught myself how to do laundry. I make sure I have enough detergent and the machine is in good condition. I make sure not to put too many clothes in the machine at once. My grandmother taught me how to cook. I followed her rules and she was an excellent cook."
How are you paying for living in your own place?
"I get Social Security Disability, SSDI. I put it into my bank account so that I can pay my bills. My property tax and homeowners insurance are paid online through the bank. I make sure that it's set up online to come out automatically. I pay for groceries with my debit card. I have to make sure all my other bills are paid before I buy groceries. I have to make sure there's enough money in the account. I check my statement to make sure."
Do you feel you are receiving enough support? What are those supports?
"Yes. My family helps. We do things as a family, like going to restaurants. My [direct support staff] comes and we go shopping together, and sometimes to the barber shop."
How long have you been living on your own?
"I've been living on my own since my mother went to a nursing home. She passed in 2017. It was a big adjustment. It was hard when my mother went into a nursing home, and I miss her. I was my mom's caregiver before she went into the nursing home because she lost her skills and got weak. Even when she was at the nursing home, I visited her and helped by washing her clothes."
What skill do you think has been the most important for living on your own?
"Have a good income. You have to have a very good ability to take care of repairs. . . . When you own a house, you pay for the repairs. When you rent, the landlord arranges the repairs, but you have to keep on them to make sure they send for the repair people. You have to know how to manage money and pay your taxes. You have to know who you can trust [to complete home repairs]. You have to know details about the house. You have to have good credit if you want a mortgage to buy a house. You have to make sure your pots are clean, you have to dust, and you have to make sure it's clean when company comes."
What is one thing that is wonderful about living in your own place?
"When you own your house, you can do what you want to do. You don't have to follow anyone else's rules. . . . In a group home, you have to follow their rules, but when you have your own place, you make your own rules. You can go to bed when you want to, eat when you want to, look at TV when you want to, and go out whenever you want."
Do you have housemates? Why or why not?
"I don't have housemates. I like living alone. Some people can't afford to live alone, so they might have a housemate to share expenses. I like living alone because I can do whatever I want to. If I had a housemate, I might not be able to have friends over whenever I like."
Do you feel included in your neighborhood?
"Yes. I don't see too many people, but some of my neighbors are friendly. Some of them have been here for a long time, like me. I go downtown a lot to visit people, to visit art galleries and people I know."
Do you have social spaces in your community that you use or go to frequently?
"I go to Center City. I like going to the art galleries. I like areas with lots of art. Philly has some problems, but in the areas with art galleries, I feel comfortable. I go to a barbershop downtown. There's a nice mall downtown too. . . . Sometimes I travel. I go to Jenkintown. My friend has a gallery there.
What advice do you have for people who want to live in their own place?
"I hope they can succeed in living on their own like I do. You might have to have somebody assist you. You have to have an income to pay your bills and money for grocery shopping. Social security is one source of income, plus money from a job. People should know that you have to catch sales when you go to the grocery store."

This project is funded by the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council . To learn more about the project and how you can get involved, please visit our . To learn about upcoming Housing Myth Busting presentations, visit our .

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Housing Myth Busting Community Spotlight: Michael K. - Families CCAN

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Families CCAN is proud to be a recipient of the PA Developmental Disabilities Council's Housing Myth Busting grant. The goal of our project is to break down some of the prevalent myths-or falsehoods- about housing for adults with disabilities. Along with

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This is the slide deck from our first presentation. The links within this PDF are active. The resources linked within the pdf are also included on this Toolbox.

Image description: First slide of the slide deck, with a purple and green geometric border and purple text: "Getting Your own Place: Myths and Facts. Part 1." The Families CCAN logo, with stylized orange rooftops and a green tree, is at lower left. The Self Advocates United as one, or SAU1, logo, with sunset colors and stylized people holding hands across a green field in the shape of the State of Pennsylvania, is at lower right.

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Toolbox version Housing Myths and Facts Part 1 updated 5.31.24.pptx (1)

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PA ABLE is a savings program for people with disabilities. Funds from these accounts can be used for qualified expenses, including housing.

Image description: Photo of a person with a prosthetic leg working in a lumberyard.

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The Pennsylvania ABLE Savings Program (PA ABLE) is an extraordinary, new, low-cost saving vehicle that gives people with disabilities and their families a tax-free way to save for disability-related expenses while maintaining government benefits. Federal and state law authorized the creation of PA ABLE accounts.

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The LifeCourse Nexus provides a framework for person centered planning.

Image description: Lifecourse nexus logo, with bright, multicolored concentric circles broken into wedges. In the center, there is a blue circle with a graphic of a group of people. Around this are different graphics, including a house, a watch, and a shield, representing different areas of a person's everyday life.

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Whether you are new to Charting the LifeCourse framework and tools, or more experienced, you are in the right place! In the Foundational Tools section of the website, you will find a core set of practical tools you can use for planning, problem-solving, or just thinking about what you want and don't want now or in the future!

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Use this document along with the Life Course Trajectory Tip Sheet

Image description: Screenshot of the life Course Trajectory for Exploring, Showing a line running diagonally upward from left to right, as well as two boxes on the right side, one labeled ""What I want", the other labeled "What I don't want"

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PA Assistive Technology Foundation: Smart Home Technology Project

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PA Assistive Technology Foundation: Smart Home Technology Project

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"PATF launched the Smart Homes Made Simple project to raise awareness about how people with disabilities can gain control over their environment and live safely and more independently in their own homes using generic smart home technology."

Image description: blue background with a WiFi icon in the center

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Smart Home Technology Project | Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation

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PATF launched the Smart Homes Made Simple project to raise awareness about how people with disabilities can gain control over their environment and live safely and more independently in their own... [ Read Smart Home Technology Project ]

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Learn about and apply for federal benefits, such as SSI.

Image description: Screenshot of the SSA website, showing a light blue horizontal banner with black text, a light blue banner with white text, and below, a white text box on a royal blue background. Inside the text box are columns of links labeled "Prepare," "Apply", and "After you apply."

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The United States Social Security Administration | SSA

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Official website of the U.S. Social Security Administration.

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Information from the PA Department of Human Services Long Term Care office, including information about Waivers for people with physical disabilities.

Image description: Image description: A close-up of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services logo, which shows a stylized group of people in white on a light blue background with a dark blue border forming a keystone shape.

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​Long-Term Care Services

Long-term care, sometimes referred to as long-term living, is a wide range of assistive services provided to an individual based on their needs. Care may range from assistance around the home to sophisticated medical care provided in a nursing facility.

If you are looking for programs and services for older Pennsylvanians beyond long-term care, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Aging.

You can apply for or renew your long-term care benefits online by using COMPASS. COMPASS is the name of the website where you can apply for long-term care services and many other programs that can help you make ends meet, including:

Services My Way (SMW)

A system of supports to assist participants in using self-directed services. Two types of supports are:

Information and Assistance (I&A) - These services assist participants in developing and managing their self-directed support services (e.g. assistance with developing and implementing a service plan and budget, accessing services and workers). They are often referred to as support brokers, consultants, or service coordinators. The Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) refers to them as care managers in the Aging Waiver and service coordinators in the Attendant Care Waiver.

Financial Management Services (FMS) - These services are provided to (a) prepare and distribute payroll and address federal, state, and local employment tax, labor, and workers compensation insurance rules and other requirements that apply when the participant functions as the employer of his or her workers; (b) make financial transactions on behalf of the participant; and (c) generate reports for participants and state program agencies.

Waiver Participant Informational Materials

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Long-term care, sometimes referred to as long-term living, is a wide range of assistive services provided to an individual based on their needs. Care may range from assistance around the home to sophisticated medical care provided in a nursing facility.

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Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs

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Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs

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Information about Pennsylvania's services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Waiver Programs

Image description: Image description: A close-up of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services logo, which shows a stylized group of people in white on a light blue background with a dark blue border forming a keystone shape.

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PA Family Network provides free trainings on ODP Waivers. Click on the link to learn more and see their training schedule.

Image description: photo of of a family smiling and looking at the camera.

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The PA Family Network serves three critical roles: Supporting families' needs using the "Charting the LifeCourse Tools" to: Develop a vision for an Everyday Life Assist families in finding the information they need, when they need it.

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Pennsylvania 211: Get Connected. Get Help.™

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Pennsylvania 211: Get Connected. Get Help.™

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"If you need to connect with resources in your community, but don’t know where to look, PA 211 is a great place to start. From help with a utilities bill, to housing assistance, after-school programs for kids, and more, you can dial 211 or text your zip code to 898-211 to talk with a resource specialist for free."

Image Description: Blue, white, and orange logo for PA 211, depicting a speech or text bubble with the numbers 2.1.1 inside and the phrase "Pennsylvania Get Connected. Get Help. TM" underneath.

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"I got help with things I'd never even thought of when I called PA 211 Southwest."

William, 63, has been avoiding turning lights on or using air conditioning at home and in an effort to conserve electricity. The price of electricity has skyrocketed along with the cost of almost everything else he needs, and his income is fixed. He called PA 211 Southwest when his electricity was in danger of being...
Read More >View all success stories >

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Need help and don't know where to start? Find resources to help you with your utilities bill, housing, food, employment, and more - all across PA.

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Housing Information and Resources for people living in Pennsylvania

Image description: A close-up of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services logo, which shows a stylized group of people in white on a light blue background with a dark blue border forming a keystone shape.

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Housing is critical to a person's health and well-being. DHS believes that too many Pennsylvanians who have extremely low incomes are rent-burdened, too many people experience homelessness or are at risk of homelessness, and too many people who live in institutions could live in the community with assistance.

The housing program will approach housing challenges in Pennsylvania by:

Removing barriers unique to each person

Connecting people with housing opportunities

Expanding affordable housing in PA

Partnering with local agencies

Utilizing data to measure progress

Pooling resources and sharing ideas

5-Year Housing Strategy

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services' Housing Strategy is a five-year comprehensive plan to connect Pennsylvanians to affordable, integrated, accessible, and supportive housing.

The strategy was first launched in 2016 in partnership with the Pennsylvania Housing and Finance Agency and the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, as well as other local, state, and federal agencies. A year after the successful launch, DHS received feedback from stakeholders and updated the strategy to clarify goals and reorganize information.

Housing Stakeholder Workgroup

The Housing Stakeholder Workgroup was established by DHS to collect stakeholder input on issues of Housing policy development and program administration within the context of implementing the Housing Strategy.

Supporting Innovation

DHS is committed to addressing social determinants of health like housing around Pennsylvania. Through this commitment, we are exploring the connection between homelessness or housing instability, health outcomes, and health care spending.

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Housing is critical to a person's health and well-being. DHS believes that too many Pennsylvanians who have extremely low incomes are rent-burdened, too many people experience homelessness or are at risk of homelessness, and too many people who live in institutions could live in the community with assistance.

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Self Determination Housing of Pennsylvania

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Self Determination Housing of Pennsylvania

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Now a part of Inglis, SDHP provides assistance, training, and access to home modifications to adults with disabilities.

Image description: The Blue and orange Inglis Logo, which reads "Inglis. Ability & Independence Redefined." The I in Inglis is stylized to look like a manual wheelchair user propelling themselves towards the rest of the word.

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Self-Determination Housing of Pennsylvania (SDHP)

Self-Determination Housing of Pennsylvania (SDHP) advocates for accessible, affordable, and integrated housing opportunities for individuals
with disabilities.

SDHP's team of Regional Housing Coordinators partner with community stakeholders to provide technical assistance and deliver trainings to increase choice and affordability in housing for people with disabilities and older adults.

SDHP recently launched the Landlord Risk Mitigation Fund program creating housing opportunities by partnering with landlords to rent to individuals with disabilities.

SDHP also works closely with partnering organizations, government institutions, and other entities to promote effective public policies and inclusive regulatory rules in accessible housing on behalf of individuals with disabilities.

SDHP is the statewide waitlist administrator for the 811 Project Rental Assistance Program ( sdhp811@inglis.org)and provides training and technical assistance to service providers wishing to refer their participants to the program.

Trainings include:

811 Project Rental Assistance Program overview

Addressing a housing crisis

Assistance animals

Eviction prevention and processes

Home modifications

Navigating income-based housing options

PREP (Prepared Renters Education Program)

Tenants' Rights: Fair Housing and beyond

Housing Choice Vouchers

"I will definitely recommend this and future SDHP/Inglis trainings. I walked away with several ideas for follow up conversations/collaboration."

For more information, please contact us at SDHPinfo@inglis.org or 610.873.9595

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Self-Determination Housing of Pennsylvania (SDHP) | Inglis

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Inglis enables people with disabilities - and those who care for them - to achieve their goals and live life to the fullest.

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Achieva is a Pittsburgh-based organization offering many services related to housing and Independent living.

Image Description: Side-view photo of a young child in a white t-shirt embracing a smiling woman in a pink shirt.

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More than 60 donors donated over $7,000 to support people with disabilities and their families who turn to Achieva for support. Deedra Knaus provided incentive to our donors by matching dollar for dollar the first $7,000 donated. The donations fom #ImpactAchieva will help people with disabilities lead a life of personal significance. If you want to give, too, please visit achieva.info/givingday.

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housing options for people with disabilities

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employment opportunities for people with disabilities

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Achieva Family of Organizations is committed to helping people with disabilities lead lives of personal significance.

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Copyright © 2025 Families CCAN, Self Advocates United as 1, and Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council.  Permission to reprint, copy and distribute this work is granted provided that it is reproduced as a whole, distributed at no more than actual cost, and displays this copyright notice.  Any other reproduction is strictly prohibited.

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To view any resource on this site, please click the photo or graphic.

You can scroll up and down with your arrow keys, mouse, or trackpad to view all available resources.

You can also view all resources as a slideshow by clicking the Triangle icon in the menu on the right side of the screen.

If you have any questions, or if you would like additional information, please contact Abby Martucci: AbbyMartucci@FamiliesCCANPhilly.org or 267-581-2826

For accessibility questions, please contact Sierra Shipton:

email sierra@sau1.org

Call or text: 814-201-1345

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This site is part of a the Housing Myth Busting project. This project was funded by the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council.

The Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling

$3,095,416.00 (Three million, ninety-five thousand, four hundred sixteen dollars) with 100 (one hundred) percent funding by ACL/HHS. Council efforts are those of the grantee and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

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Self Advocates United as 1 (SAU1) is an amazing resource for information and training about living more independently and standing up for your rights and the rights of others. They host free online and in-person presentations.

Image description: The Self Advocates United as 1 Logo has our name and initials. It includes outlines of people in different colors, one using a wheelchair and two walking, to reflect SAU1's diversity. There is an outline of Pennsylvania and sunrise colors.

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Self Advocates United as 1 is a group of people who envision a world where people with developmental disabilities and their families are united and empowered.

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Financial Literacy Curriculum designed for people with disabilities

Image description: Screenshot of the Cents and Sensibility website, with a green border at the top, text in the center with a "Who we are" side menu and a red "Back to publications" button, and a blue banner at the bottom with an invitation for people to subscribe to their email newsletter.

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As part of our mission to provide financial education, we developed a financial education booklet, Cents and Sensibility: A Guide to Money Management, to respond to a need in the disability community. We've since learned from our pilot programs that everyone can benefit from this information. It's so important to understand how to manage your money so that your money doesn't manage you!
Back to Publications

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Cents and Sensibility | Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation

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As part of our mission to provide financial education, we developed a financial education booklet, Cents and Sensibility: A Guide to Money Management, to respond to a need in the... [ Read Cents and Sensibility ]

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Liberty Housing Development Corporation: 

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Liberty Housing Development Corporation: 

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Resources for Housing for People with Disabilities in Philadelphia

Image description: Photo of a group of people sitting, facing left. Many are wearing bright green shirts. In the foreground, and woman with a black sweater over a green shirt is facing the camera and holding a hand-painted sign with the words "Housing Impact Fees Now."

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Legal organization dedicated to protecting and advancing the Rights of People with Disabilities.

Image description: Blue field with a faint image of the Capitol building. The words "Disability Rights Pennsylvania" are in the center in white. Their logo, the letters DRP, are to the left in a white keystone shape.

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2,500

DRP operates a toll-free intake system available to all Pennsylvanians, providing legal advice, advocacy, and/or information and referral services to over 2,500 callers annually.

10

DRP participates in approximately 10 outreach events annually to provide information about our services to people with disabilities, family members, advocates, and professionals.

50

DRP provides approximately 50 trainings and presentations annually to people with disabilities, family members, advocates, and professionals on a variety of topics relating to disability rights.

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Disability Rights Pennsylvania | Protecting and Advancing the Rights of People with Disabilities

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Disability Rights Pennsylvania (DRP) is an independent, statewide, non-profit corporation designated as the federally-mandated protection and advocacy agency in Pennsylvania.

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Searchable database of affordable housing units in Pennsylvania

Image description: light blue Background with stylized white rooftops and red letters PHFA

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PAHousingSearch.com | Pennsylvania Apartments | Pennsylvania Rental Homes

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Pennsylvania's housing search site. Renters search for free, landlords list rental housing for free.

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Community Housing Options: Center for Independent Futures

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Community Housing Options: Center for Independent Futures

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The Center for Independent Futures in Evanston, IL inspired the creation of our Creating Family Networks Program.  Click on the link above to learn more about their innovative Housing model.

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The New Futures Initiative™ Training

With the New Futures Initiative, Center for Independent Futures developed a step-by-step process that gives families the ability to open doors to supported living options in their own neighborhoods.

This proprietary method was informed by our firsthand experiences and in collaboration with leaders in the field of community development. The New Futures Initiative takes participants through a series of workshops designed to teach our process. Together, they provide the tools, materials, and professional resources needed to move forward. And the process is proven. Evidence of its success can be seen in our four Community Living Option residences in Evanston, Ill.

At a time when government housing is at capacity and funding is not increasing, the New Futures Initiative is a road map to guide families on their paths toward the housing solutions their loved ones need and deserve-ones that make financial sense and build the personal networks that will help them live more independently for years to come.

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Creating Housing Options - Center For Independent Futures

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With the New Futures Initiative, Center for Independent Futures developed a step-by-step process that gives families the ability to open doors to supported living options in their own neighborhoods. This proprietary method was informed by our firsthand experiences and in collaboration with leaders in the field of community development.

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List of Public Housing Authorities by area in Pennsylvania, with links.

Image description: Blue toolbar with darker blue icons for email, RSS, Flickr, youtube, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The address "hud.gov" is at lower left and the word "remove" is at lower right.

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HUD.gov / U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

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Public Housing Agency Websites: Pennsylvania

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Families CCAN provides programs and services to help you take the next step on your housing journey. Visit their website to access helpful Workshops, meetings and free resources.

Image description: The Families CCAN logo, with stylized orange rooftops and a green tree. Logo is on a white background with a light green border.

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Use this tip Sheet along with the life Course Trajectory Tool

Image description: Screenshot of the tip sheet, with black text in columns as well as part of a multi-colored graphic diagram in the lower right corner

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"SafeinHome empowers people to live independently in their own homes and communities using a remote supports staff and assistive technologies.

We make daily living safer while respecting the dignity of choice."

Image description: A Headshot photo of a smiling person wearing a pink shirt

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Bens' Journey - The age of increased independence and decision-making It is a pleasure getting to know Ben, his gentle nature welcomes one into his thoughts and world. Like many young adults, his life is full. He lives independently in an apartment, enjoys...

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Bens' Journey - The age of increased independence and decision-making It is a pleasure getting to know Ben, his gentle nature welcomes one into his thoughts and world. Like many young adults, his life is full. He lives independently in an apartment, enjoys...

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"SimplyHome designs and installs innovative and affordable technology solutions that transform how we care for individuals with disabilities, aging adults, and veterans. Our technology empowers individuals to live their own self-determined lifestyle while addressing the concerns of caregivers."

Image description: a red rectangle, with very faint writing that says "SimplyHome"

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How Can AI Help Individuals with Disabilities?

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SimplyHome designs and installs customizable assistive technology systems that support the independence of people aging in place or living with disabilities.

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"Our mission is to deliver quality Remote Supports services by creatively using technology to connect passionate, experienced caregivers to individuals, allowing them to live with more independence."

Image description: NOSS Logo in Ombre Green and blue, with a graphic of a stylized owl sitting in the letter O.

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Jennifer received 24/7 care before using remote supports. While she loved having staff while she was awake, she wanted to be more independent during sleep hours.

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You can use this tool from LifeCourse Tools to map out all of the supports that mihgt help you as you work towards getting your own place

Image description: picture of the supports star worksheet, with a bright, multicolored border and the words "integrated supports start at the top.

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This is the slide deck for our second presentation. The Resources linked within the PDF are also included in this Toolbox.

Image description: First slide of the slide deck, with a purple and green geometric border and purple text: "Getting Your Own Place: Myths and Facts Part 2". Below are the logos for Families CCAN, Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council, and Self Advocates United as One (SAU1)

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Housing Myths and Facts Part 2 Tool Box version (1)

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Recording of "Getting Your Own Place: Myths and Facts, Part 2

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Recording of "Getting Your Own Place: Myths and Facts, Part 2

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You can maximize the screen to get a better view. If you would like to see the captions, click the "CC" button.

Image description: A screenshot of the presentation, showing photos of four of our team members: Gretchen, Elijah, David, and Jenny.

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Getting Your Own Place: Myths and Facts Part 2