Elijah Finds a Place He Can Call Home

When Elijah started his journey with ABLE2, he was skeptical that he would find the support he needed. After spending over seven years on the Social Housing Registry, waiting for affordable and accessible housing, he felt stuck. He was renting a room in a townhouse and his living conditions were far from ideal—unsafe and not close to his hoped-for quality of life. Living on a fixed income through the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) only added to the challenges.

Elijah was then referred to ABLE2’s Adult Protective Services Investment (APSW) program. Working in partnership with Developmental Service Ontario – Eastern Region (DSO-ER) and the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS), the program supports adults with developmental disabilities who would like to move into a home of their own. This program is increasingly vital as many caregivers and parents of individuals with disabilities are ageing, making it crucial to help adults with disabilities secure stable housing and gain independence. 

Elijah began working with ABLE2’s Adult Protective Services Worker (APSW), who supported him in exploring his housing options, assisting with form submissions, and navigating the Canadian Ontario Housing Benefit (COHB) program. After a year, he finally moved into an apartment that met his needs, giving him longed-for security and stability.

“I am most thankful for the help I get from ABLE2,” Elijah shares. “I am in good shape now. I have a safe and affordable housing, and I continue to get the support I need.” 

Elijah is thriving. He currently works as a Personal Support Worker as well as pursuing Indigenous Studies at Algonquin College. He enjoys going out and socializing in the community and even volunteering his time at ABLE2’s events. In 2024, he proudly shared his story in ABLE2’s Anniversary Video, a testament to the transformative impact of the APSW program.

The APSW program is not just about housing—it is about empowering individuals to make their own choices, so they live a life that is meaningful to them. When individuals are provided with the necessary tools and resources, they become advocates for themselves and their communities. “I’ve seen Elijah grow more confident and independent, which is what we strive for in APSW. We work to reduce the barriers, the stress, and anxieties of unstable living conditions, so people with disabilities can thrive.” says Taylor, Elijah’s APSW. 

Your Support Makes Stories Like Elijah’s Possible
This vital work is made possible through the generosity and compassion of ABLE2’s donors, volunteers and supporters. With your help, ABLE2 can continue providing programs like APSW, ensuring more individuals like Elijah can thrive. Let us continue to build a community where everyone has a safe place to call home.

Learn how you can be involved with ABLE2 today.