The Ontario government will invest $18 million in capital funding over the next two years and $20 million in operating funding over the next five years in the Home of Your Own initiative, which will create 390 new spaces for adults with a developmental disability, including 90 specialized spaces for individuals with high care needs.

90 Specialized Spaces

These spaces will be created over the next two years and will offer both transitional (short-term relief/emergency) and permanent support for individuals who have the highest needs. These spaces will provide 24-hour care to individuals who are at risk of hurting themselves or others. Permanent support will include ongoing evaluation, structured support, and training and clinical intervention. Services may be available for adults who require a safe temporary placement because they are at risk of hurting themselves or because their current caregiver needs additional training or support.

These spaces will provide 24-hour supervised care and support for individuals with a developmental disability. These homes will provide room and board as well as support with daily living activities (e.g., eating, dressing and toileting).

Supported living spaces will provide individualized supports to adults with a developmental disability who live in the home of their choice but require some help with daily living activities, life skills and decision-making. Services and support will be based on the individual's needs and preferences. Services will promote opportunities for individuals to participate in the community where they live.

The 390 new spaces will be for people who are living in the community and are in addition to the $70 million investment the government announced on September 9, 2004 to create new homes for individuals who will be leaving the three provincially-operated institutions over the next four years.