Residential
ILHS currently operates four centrally located residential homes, housing four Individuals each and an apartment complex that provides private housing and care worker support for seven Individuals in their own apartments.
All of the homes are wheelchair-accessible and provide each Individual supported his or her own room. Some furnishings are provided, but Individuals supported are free to decorate with their own personal effects. One of the Gordon Head houses is very proud of its wheelchair accessible “raised garden”, which is the sole responsibility of the Individuals supported. Residential Care Workers are available on a 24-hour basis to assist the Individuals supported to develop a more independent lifestyle in a very active way, and to the extent that they are able, manage housing finances, participate in decision-making, and direct activities of daily living.
Living in these homes is an affordable option for those who receive Persons with Disabilities benefits (PWD). Those who qualify receive subsidies from the Ministry of Housing, BC Housing Management Commission and the Ministry of Health Long Term Care Program. The Individuals supported then contribute towards food, shared utilities (for example, telephone, cable, and hydro) and rent. To qualify for housing with the Independent Living Housing Society, one must require personal, intermediate or extended care, and must have been assessed and approved by Long Term Care or eligible for services from Community Living British Columbia (CLBC).
Testimonials
I like living at The Heathers because it does not feel like an institution and I have my own space and I have access to transportation like BC Transit and HandyDart. I can plan my own activities and make my own choices. Sometimes we get together as a group for brunches, suppers and movies and can socialize with other residents. I like the set up at The Heathers and I expect to be here for quite a while.
- Calvin