June 2025 – Newsletter

Respect, Identity, and Belonging in Home Sharing


Pride Month celebrates love, identity, and inclusion. For people supported in home sharing, feeling safe and seen should happen every day of the year.

Many 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals still face stigma or feel unsafe sharing who they are. That is why year round inclusion matters. Small, everyday actions like using correct pronouns, displaying a Pride sticker, or watching LGBTQ2S+ shows together can make a big difference.

This month, we are focusing on how to create homes that feel welcoming all year long. Pride is not just a celebration. It is an ongoing commitment to inclusion.


It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”

E.E. Cummings


Important Days in the Disability Community

* The Longest Day (Alzheimer’s Awareness) (https://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=14244&pg=informational&sid=24695) fundraiser – June 15 -22
* Dravet Syndrome Awareness Day (https://www.dravetfoundation.org/awareness-month/) – June 23
* National PTSD Awareness Day (https://militarybenefits.info/ptsd-awareness-day/)  – June 27
* Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month (https://www.alz.org/abam/overview.asp)  – June
* Dravet Syndrome Awareness Month (https://www.dravetfoundation.org/awareness-month/)  – June
* National Employee Wellness Month (https://www.corporatewellnessmagazine.com/article/june-is-national-employee-wellness-month)  – June
* Cataract Awareness Month (https://www.aao.org/newsroom/observances#anchor6)  – June
* National Indigenous History Month (https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1466616436543/1534874922512)  – June
* Pride Season (https://www.canada.ca/en/women-gender-equality/pride-season.html)
* ALS Awareness Month (https://www.alsbc.ca/)  – June
* Father's Day (https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/canada/father-day)  – June 15
* National Indigenous Peoples Day (https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1100100013718/1708446948967)  – June 21
▪ Experience Providers | Indigenous Tourism BC (indigenousbc.com) (https://www.indigenousbc.com/listings?categories=Dining%20%26%20Culinary%20Tours)
▪ Dine Indigenous - Indigenous Tourism BC (https://www.indigenousbc.com/stories/dine-indigenous/)


Creating Safe and Affirming Home Sharing for



2SLGBTQIA+ Individuals


Creating a truly inclusive home means more than just providing care. It is about making sure every person feels seen, respected, and celebrated for who they are. For individuals who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+, safety and affirmation in their living environment are essential to their well-being. In home sharing, where people live closely and form meaningful relationships, even small gestures such as using the right pronouns or displaying inclusive symbols can have a lasting impact. This article explores how home sharing providers can foster safe, affirming spaces that support the identities, dignity, and rights of the people they care for.
Read it here! (https://homesharingbc.ca/2025/06/03/creating-safe-and-affirming-home-sharing-for-2slgbtqia-individuals/)


SDPR Home Sharing Program Review Announced


Recently,  the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction (SDPR) announced this week through a competitive process they have hired , the independent contractor Tamar Consultancy,  to assess safety in home-sharing arrangements, standards that promote quality of life, and accountability and oversight measures.

SDPR  will convene an advisory body made up of individuals, families and service providers to provide input and advice for the contractor to inform its work and develop recommendations for the ministry.


A bit about the independent contractor(s):

Eddie Bartnik (Australia)
* Eddie Bartnik has a unique long-term view on disability, mental health, and individualized funding services based on 45 years of local, national, and international experience.
* Mr. Bartnik has previously facilitated knowledge exchange between various countries on Home Sharing models, including with CLBC and Nova Scotia.
* Mr. Bartnik has been joint lead on an international project across 8 member countries related to sustaining alternatives to institutions for people with disabilities, of which Home Sharing was a key component.


Dr. Tim Stainton (British Columbia)
* Dr. Tim Stainton is Professor at the School of Social Work and Director of the Canadian Institute for Inclusion and Citizenship, University of British Columbia.
* Dr. Stainton has a 40+ year career involved in numerous reviews of disability services, policies, and governance.  In his academic work he has led or been part of multiple studies of service, support, and housing models.
* Dr. Stainton’s experience in BC includes:
*
+ Working as a service broker with the Community Living Society in Vancouver were he assisted individuals and families to return to the community from the Woodlands institution.
+ Participating in the Transition Steering Committee (led by the Minster of Social Development) where he chaired the committee charged with designing a new system for supporting people with IDD in BC, including being appointed to the interim board overseeing the transition to CLBC when it was established in 2005.
+ Participating as a board member of both Inclusion Canada and Inclusion BC.


Dr. Rachelle Hole (British Columbia)
* Dr. Rachelle Hole is a Professor at the UBC Okanagan School of Social Work, a Tier 1 Principal Research Chair in Critical Disability Studies, and co-director of the UBC Canadian Institute for Inclusion and Citizenship (CIIC).
* Dr. Hole’s program of research is informed by critical disability studies and the disability justice framework with a specific focus on intellectual disability research.
* Dr. Hole’s research has included work on exploring remote supports to promote independence and quality of life for individuals with intellectual disabilities in “independent living” residential arrangements, supports for parents with intellectual disabilities, inclusive housing in Canada, inclusive employment, and quality of life outcomes for individuals transitioning from group homes to home share arrangements.



Updates about HSP Awards


HSP Awards 2025: Nominations Open Soon!

Do you know a home sharing provider who goes above and beyond? The 2025 HSP Awards nomination period officially opens in a few weeks. This is your chance to recognize someone who brings compassion, commitment, and creativity to their role.

The HSP Awards celebrate excellence in home sharing across British Columbia. Winners will be announced at our Awards Ceremony on October 7, 2025.

Stay tuned for nomination details: forms and criteria will be shared soon through our newsletter and social media channels.


Free Tools, Resources & Training
Provided by Home Sharing Support Society BC (HSSSBC)


Each month we work hard to bring you the best tools, training and resources for little or no cost.  The following tools, resources and training is proudly brought to you by the HSSSBC.  Enjoy!


Resources for 2SLGBTQIA+ Inclusion and Support


Creating safe, inclusive spaces goes beyond just June. Across BC, organizations are working year-round to support 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and their families with programs, community events, and identity-affirming care.


South Fraser (Surrey, Delta, Langley, White Rock)


Pflag Surrey: Offers monthly support meetings for families, friends, and allies of the 2SLGBTQ+ community in the Fraser Valley. Queer BC+27Surrey PFLAG+27White Rock Pride+27 (https://pflagsurrey.ca/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Sher Vancouver: A registered charity supporting LGBTQ+ South Asians and their allies through peer support, anti-bullying programs, and cultural events. Queer BC+8Wikipedia+8Island Sexual Health+8 (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sher_Vancouver?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Fraser Valley Youth Society (FVYS): Provides programs and support for LGBTQ2S+ and allied youth in the Fraser Valley. JIBC+16Mind Map BC+16QCHAT+16 (https://www.mindmapbc.ca/services/categories/lgbtq2s-affirming/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)


Southern Interior (Okanagan, Kootenays, Thompson)


Kamloops Pride: Offers a directory of resources for the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community in Kamloops and surrounding areas. Queer BC+10Kamloops Pride+10LoveCRN+10 (https://www.kamloopspride.com/resources-2slgbtqpia?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Interior Crisis Line Network (ICLN): Provides 24/7 crisis line services throughout the Southern Interior. VCC Library Guides+21saravyc.ubc.ca+21Surrey PFLAG+21 (https://www.saravyc.ubc.ca/resources/british-columbia/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Living Out Visibly & Engaged (LOVE): Offers support, education, and resources to the LGBTQ+ community in the Central Okanagan. White Rock Pride+7Central Okanagan Pathways+7Thompson Pathways+7 (https://central-okanagan.pathwaysbc.ca/programs/3196?utm_source=chatgpt.com)


North & Thompson Cariboo


Pathways BC – Thompson Region: Provides support, education, and resources to the LGBTQ+ community, promoting inclusion and well-being. Central Okanagan Pathways+1Thompson Pathways+1 (https://central-okanagan.pathwaysbc.ca/programs/3196?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Interior Crisis Line Network (ICLN): Offers 24/7 crisis line services throughout the Interior Region. saravyc.ubc.ca (https://www.saravyc.ubc.ca/resources/british-columbia/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)


Vancouver Coastal West (West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Sea-to-Sky)


Prism Services – Vancouver Coastal Health: Provides education, information, and referrals for the LGBT2Q+ communities, including workshops and training for healthcare and social service providers. Qmunity+14Vancouver Coastal Health+14PathwaysBC Vancouver+14 (https://www.vch.ca/en/service/prism-services?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

City of Vancouver 2SLGBTQIA+ Community: Supports Vancouver’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, gender diverse, queer, and Two-Spirit communities through various initiatives and services. Surrey PFLAG+3Vancouver+3Vancouver Coastal Health+3 (https://vancouver.ca/people-programs/lgbtqia-community.aspx?utm_source=chatgpt.com)


Vancouver Coastal East (Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond)


QMUNITY – BC’s Queer Resource Centre: Offers information and referrals, diversity training, all-ages events, counselling, and social support groups. PFLAG Vancouver+1Queer BC+1 (https://www.pflagvancouver.com/resources.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Out on the Shelves: A volunteer-run LGBTQ2IA+ library located in Vancouver, providing access to a wide range of queer literature and resources. Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Out_on_the_Shelves?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Spartacus Books: A non-profit, volunteer-run bookstore and resource centre in Vancouver, offering a diverse selection of LGBTQ literature and materials. Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spartacus_Books?utm_source=chatgpt.com)


Vancouver Island


Island Sexual Health Society: Offers sexual health clinics and education programs for all genders and orientations, including gender-affirming care services. UVic.ca (https://www.uvic.ca/research/transchair/contact/resources/index.php?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

QCHAT: Provides peer support services to LGBTQ2S youth residing in British Columbia, offering confidential support through various channels. Latincouver+6Island Sexual Health+6QCHAT+6 (https://www.islandsexualhealth.org/sexual-identity/glbt-faq/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

Vancouver Island Queer Resource Collective: A collective aiming to help queer individuals find resources and support on and around Vancouver Island. VIQ Resource Collective (https://viqueercollective.wordpress.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

LOVE LGBTQ2s Vancouver Island Community Response Network: Supports the needs of 2SLGBTQI+ people living on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, promoting inclusive and affirming organizations. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spartacus_Books?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Vancouver+9BC Community Response Networks+9LoveCRN+9 (https://bccrns.ca/bccrnsnetwork/central-island-lgbtq2?utm_source=chatgpt.com)


Attitudes and Skills (Audio Learning Modules)


About this module:

A skill is the ability to do something well. An attitude reflects our feelings and beliefs about someone or something. This module encourages you to step into the shoes of the people you support, focus on one person at a time, and maintain high, positive expectations. These approaches form the foundation of great support.

This module features presentations from Marc Tumeinski, Beth Mount, Jack Pearpoint, and Gary Kent.

On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
* Understand and describe the skills and attitudes that lead to excellent support.
* Explain how to step into the shoes of the people you support.
* Identify ways to hold high and positive expectations for both the people you support and yourself.


Module Length: 34 Minutes

*Search: “Attitudes and Skills” in the OFL search bar
Explore The Module (https://www.openfuturelearning.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=login.ModSearch)


WE’VE GOT YOU!


Navigating supports for people with disabilities can be complex. That’s why we’ve brought together a circle of trusted professionals ready to share their knowledge. Whether you're a family member, a home sharing provider, coordinator, or respite worker, Ask an Expert gives you free access to professionals including:
* Housing and Accessibility
* Disability & Income Assistance
+ Community Integration Specialist - Vancouver, Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction
+ Assistant Coordinator, Crisis Response, Community Led (CRCL)
* Mental Health and Wellness
* Legal Rights and Advocacy
* Conflict Resolution and Mediation
* Home Sharing Best Practices
* Supports for Aging and Transitions
* Cultural Safety and Inclusion
* Navigating Government Services
* Financial Advisor

This service is for you, the people working on the frontlines of the disability community, helping others live with dignity, safety, and connection.
Learn More (https://homesharingbc.ca/home-sharing-provider-coaching-session/)


Crisis Response, Community Led (CRCL)


WHAT is CRCL?
* CRCL stands for Crisis Response, Community Led
* A mobile, community-led team that offers support to individuals experiencing a mental health and/or substance use related crisis in the City of New West
* We are 1 of 6 programs in BC – NW Van, Victoria, Kamloops, Prince George, Comox Valley (provincially funded)


WHAT DO WE DO?

Team comprised of a Mental Health Worker and a Peer Support Worker (someone with lived or living experience) attend to callers in crisis during scheduled service hours. Goal is to support, de-escalate, and provide info/resources to help ensure the PIC gets the care that they need to remain stable.


HOW:
* Person experiencing crisis or a someone worried about a person in crisis calls CRCL
* Team conducts triage & assessment via phone or text to ensure we are the appropriate service
* Crisis responders are dispatched to wherever the person is in the city of New Westminster to offer in-person support
* Connection to services + follow up conducted 24-48 hrs following crisis event (if needed)


Calls can come directly from the person in crisis, or by a 3rd party – ex: community org; fire/police; a concerned bystander; library/community centre; family, friend, or neighbour


CONSENT
* CRCL support is voluntary + consent based – support services will be delivered only if the PIC is willing to engage
* If call comes from a 3rd party:
* Team will ask if consent provided to call our team for support  If “NO” – team can still respond BUT will only move forward w/ offering support if the PIC is willing to and consents to service


Hours of operation

7:00am-11:30pm, 7 days/week; callers in crisis 13+

Team Makeup
* 2 crisis responders per shift – so if team is already on a call there may be a short wait
* We will triage calls that come in based on urgency, so there may be a wait time for response if the team is already out on a call

Learn More (https://www.newwestcity.ca/services/community-and-social-services/sb_expander_articles/2905.php)

The Home Sharing Support Society BC (HSSSBC) is seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our volunteer Board of Directors.

We are particularly looking for individuals outside the Lower Mainland with experience as
Self-Advocates, Home Sharing Providers, Service Providers, or with a background in Finance/Accounting.

Help shape the future of home sharing and improve inclusive housing options for adults with developmental disabilities across British Columbia. Meetings are held online, with opportunities for in-person connections.
Apply Now (https://homesharingbc.ca/recruitment/)


Thank you for reading till the end.

We have a little gift for you.


Tag us and another home sharing provider on social to win a gift card!

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