Category: Great News!

Posted on

What’s On at the HSSSBC

January 2025 Edition

LogoWhat’s On at the HSSSBCJanuary 2025 EditionSetting New Year’s Intentions
Calling all Home Sharing Providers!

Minister Shelia Malcolmson & Rhianna (HSP) Recipient of the Inspiration Award
Happy New Years to everyone in the Home Sharing community!  We have been very busy at the HSSSBC planning events, speakers & opportunities for you to provide your input to make a difference in home sharing.

This year the HSSSBC launched the first Home Sharing Provider Awards.  Home sharing providers were recognized for their contributions to our communities across the province.  Home sharing providers make a difference in the lives of those they care for, and provide affordable housing options for adults with disabilities.  Thank you to Minister Sheila Malcolmson for making our first event extra special! 

Calling all Home Sharing Providers! Please email us at: info@homesharingbc.ca or message us on social to let us know what you would like to see more of (or less of) in 2025.  Is there training you would like access to? Resources to complete your administrative paperwork? Would you like to connect more with others?  
Let us know and we will do our best to make it happen!  Website: www.homesharingbc.ca   Email: info@homesharingbc.ca   Social:  Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram  

Setting New Year’s Intentions What is the difference between an intention and a resolution? The main difference between an intention and a resolution is that a resolution is a specific goal, while an intention is a way of being that helps you achieve that goal.  Set a New Year’s Intention that feels right for you.  How? Follow these easy steps. 

What are your Core Values? Setting intentions for the New Year begins with understanding what is most important to you.   Is physical health and well-being important to you, but you have been making unhealthy food choices, and not prioritizing physical activity ? Is this something you would like to change?  Do you value calm and mindfulness, but each week is a reminder that you have over-committed yourself? Is more time each week to focus on yourself something you would like to change? Do you value connections and engagement with others who think like you ?  Is finding like minded people something you would like to change? What is the most important in the way you live and work?  More or Less? What do I want more of in the coming year? What do I want less of in the coming year?  What can you do that will get you closer to what is important to you?  Write down 2-3 things to focus more on.  One Sentence Write one sentence that describes the change you most want for your future self.  Visual Reminder Create a visual reminder that you will see each day when you wake up that reminds you of your intention. Ask yourself “What is the one thing you can do today that will get you closer to your goal?”  Break down your goals in to monthly, weekly and daily goals  that reflect your intentions, and watch how much progress you make! 

Canadian Accessibility Network Announcement – Employment Standard  The CAN/ASC-1.1:2024 – Employment standard has been recognized as a National Standard of Canada by the Standards Council of Canada and is now available on our website for free. This equity-based standard represents a significant step forward in promoting accessibility and fostering inclusion in workplaces across Canada. 

About the standard This standard provides a set of guidelines that aim to remove employment-related barriers caused by systems or individual actions. The standard includes best practices that will help organizations create accessible and inclusive workplaces, from recruitment to professional development. This will ensure that people with disabilities can access more job opportunities, contribute fully to the economy, and thrive. News release CAN/ASC-1.1:2024 – Employment Standard summary   Read, use and share the standard today! We encourage you to read, implement and share the standard with your networks. Organizations with an inclusive and accessible culture are more likely to: anticipate and adapt to changes more easily, perform better than others, achieve better results.   By removing barriers and fostering equitable work experiences and opportunities for all, we’re building a stronger economy—and a more inclusive country.  The standard is available for free on CAN’s website. It’s offered in HTML and Word formats. You also have access to a summary in plain language and in sign languages. If you require any other format, please CAN directly at: contact us. 

15th Annual Federal Policy Forum on Inclusion hosted by Inclusion Canada & People First of Canada in collaboration with the Office for Disability Issues, Employment and Social Development Canada.    We are pleased to share the event recordings with you: Day 1 English Recording 
 Day 1 French Recording 
 Day 2 English Recording 
 Day 2 French Recording  You can also access a written summary of the event, including speaker PowerPoint presentations. 
Barrier Free Home For Sale in Summerland This property has been completely modified for barrier free living. There are many opportunities for this property – may it be home sharing, a loved one with a disability, staffed home or ageing in place, this property fits all. These homes are fully self-contained and turn key at 1,150,000. This is a private sale. I am hoping the property will be utilized for its original purpose. Video: https://12006sinclairmls.heizmannstories.ca/ 
You can visit our website at www.homesharingbc.ca  for more information. Any donations can be sent via the contact information below. Thank you for considering this request and for your continued support of Home Sharing Support Society BC.   
 –Ruth Bader Ginsburg. “If we want to include everyone, we have to help everyone develop their talents and use their gifts for the good of the community. That’s what inclusion means– everyone contributes.”
Posted on

Home Sharing Support Society of BC

Logo
What’s On at the HSSSBCJuly 2024 Edition

Home Sharing Board Vacancies

About

Co-operative Entrepreneur Training Program (CETP)

Info

Accessible Service Delivery
Feedback

Happy July to everyone in the Home Sharing community!  We have been very busy at the HSSSBC planning events, speakers & opportunities for you to provide your input to make a difference in home sharing.

HSSSBC Board of Directors is RecruitingDo you want serve your community by volunteering some of your time and expertise to a non-profit board supporting the disability sector?  If you are a self-advocate, or have legal or accounting experience we would like to hear from you.  The Home Sharing Support Society BC currently has opportunities to serve on our HSSSBC Board of Directors.  Our mission is to enhance and support the sustainability and quality of home sharing and other housing options for adults with developmental disabilities throughout British Columbia. 
 The Home Sharing Support Society BC works collaboratively with a cross-section of the Home Sharing community from across the province. This includes families, people in a home sharing arrangement, providers, those coordinating services, self-advocates, funders and other key community partners.    Learn More About Us: https://homesharingbc.ca/about-us/   
Co-operative Entrepreneur Training Program (CETP)Are you or someone you know gifted with an exceptional talent or business idea but face barriers to employment? Vancouver Island University offers a unique opportunity that might be the perfect fit. The Cooperative Entrepreneur Training Program (CETP) is designed to empower individuals with disabilities or other employment barriers to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality.  
CETP is an online program that equips you with crucial business skills needed to start and run your own business. This includes everything from business strategy and financial literacy to digital marketing. The program is tailored for Canadians over the age of 17 who have diversabilities or any barriers that hinder regular employment. 
 Program Highlights: 
Flexible Online Delivery: Participate from anywhere in Canada. 
Mentorship: Get paired with experienced business owners who provide personalized guidance. 
Financial Support: Access multiple sources of funding to cover your program costs, with a safety net to withdraw without fees if funding isn’t secured. 
Learn more here!
Check your Bias!The IAT measures the strength of associations between concepts (e.g., black people, gay people) and evaluations (e.g., good, bad) or stereotypes (e.g., athletic, clumsy). The main idea is that making a response is easier when closely related items share the same response key. When doing an IAT you are asked to quickly sort words into categories that are on the left and right hand side of the computer screen.Take your test here!
Interesting StudyConscious and Unconscious Disability Attitudes In this study patterns of explicit (conscious) and implicit (unconscious) attitudes towards disability are examined.
BC Government’s Accessibility Feedback ToolThe BC government is making it easier for people with disabilities to provide feedback on accessibility! They’ve launched an online tool to share your experiences with provincial government services. You can find it on the “Accessibility” link at the bottom of any government webpage, or directly at gov.bc.ca/accessibilityfeedback. And if you prefer, you can still provide feedback by email, phone, or mail. 
Accessible Service Delivery From May 31 to July 31 2024, people, organizations and industry groups within B.C. are invited to provide input on draft recommendations for Accessible Service Delivery and Employment Accessibility standards under the Accessible British Columbia Act. 
These recommendations will form the basis of future accessibility regulations in B.C.   (source: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/accessiblebcactstandards/) 

Posted on

What’s On at the HSSSBC

LogoWhat’s On at the HSSSBCJune 2024 Edition
Home Sharing Board Vacancies
About
Trauma Informed Mediation
Info
Accessible Service Delivery
Feedback

Happy June to everyone in the Home Sharing community!  We have been very busy at the HSSSBC planning events, speakers & opportunities for you to provide your input to make a difference in home sharing.
Important Days in JuneAlzheimer’s & Brain Awareness MonthDravet Syndrome Awareness MonthNational Employee Wellness MonthCataract Awareness MonthThe Longest Day (Alzheimer’s Awareness) – June 21Dravet Syndrome Awareness Day – June 23National PTSD Awareness Day – June 27
Home Sharing Support Society BC – Board Member VacanciesThe Home Sharing Support Society BC currently has some opportunities to serve on our HSSSBC Board of Directors.  Want to contribute?  If you have are a self-advocate, or have legal or accounting experience we would like to hear from you.  The Home Sharing Support Society BC works collaboratively with a cross-section of the Home Sharing community from across the province. This includes families, people in a home sharing arrangement, providers, those coordinating services, self-advocates, funders and other key community partners.  Learn More About Us: https://homesharingbc.ca/about-us/   Accessible-IT converts your PDFs into accessible versions for people with visual or cognitive disabilities.  As many as 20% of internet users have some form of visual impairment. 1 in 3 adults will experience blindness or partial sight as they age. 
Click HERE to check it out!
A Trauma-Informed Meditation to Uncover the Potential for HealingA 12-Minute Meditation to Uncover the Potential for Healing Stop. Here, simply notice any reactions you’re having in this moment. You might notice a particular sensation or stressor. Simply notice. This gentle act of noticing allows us to create some space for our automatic reactions. When we notice, we allow ourselves to choose to respond with intention. 
 Take a breath. Allow yourself to breathe as deeply as is comfortable for you. Breathing deeply can bring us to a state of equilibrium—to a place of support, and maybe even a little peace. 
 Observe. With this greater sense of ease that you’re cultivating, you can continue to observe what is arising for you in this moment. Between stimulus and response, there is space. 
 Imagine. Now, let’s imagine together. First, imagine a door and an invitation to open the door. Imagine walking through and inside the space feels quiet and peaceful. Pause there. Now, bring to mind a memory that brings feelings of joy, and peace, and even a little excitement. Feel the energy of this moment. Pause there. Next, bring to mind a moment when you felt awe. Maybe a beautiful scenic view at the end of a long hike. Imagine the work it took to get you there. And now feel the satisfaction of arriving at this spot. Feel the joy. Pause there. Finally, imagine a kind, loving figure, maybe a grandmother figure. Feel them sharing their warmth and love with you. Reminding you that you are loved. Rest in that peace and love for a moment. Know that this kind, loving space is available to you at any time. 
 Proceed. When you’re ready, bring your attention back to your breath, wiggle your fingers and toes. Know that you can carry this feeling of spaciousness, joy, trust, and ease into your day with you. 
Mindfulness Practice, helps with Cultivating Mindfulness through Meditation (link)
The NTG is a not-for-profit organization charged with ensuring that the interests of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other causes of dementia – as well as their families and friends.    Recently, they held an online webinar and shared some resources that would be useful for the home sharing community: Guidelines for Structuring Community Care and Supports for People with Intellectual Disabilities Affected by Dementia (link). Dalton Protocol for Recording Baseline Information – Instrument Guide (link)  NTG-Early Detection Screen for Dementia (print version here, electronic version here) Jenny’s Diary (link)  
Accessible Service Delivery
From May 31 to July 31 2024, people, organizations and industry groups within B.C. are invited to provide input on draft recommendations for Accessible Service Delivery and Employment Accessibility standards under the Accessible British Columbia Act. 
These recommendations will form the basis of future accessibility regulations in B.C.   (source: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/accessiblebcactstandards/) 

Posted on

Home Share Support Society BC

Dear Home Sharing Community Member,We hope you’re doing well. We wanted to remind you about our upcoming Mental Health and Wellness Webinar!If you haven’t signed up yet, now’s your chance! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to hear our amazing speakers!Presenters:Jessica grew up in a close-knit community nestled in the heart of Labrador. She is a proud granddaughter, daughter, sister, auntie, cousin, friend, partner, and dog mom. Currently residing on Treaty 8 Territory in Fort McMurray, Alberta, Jessica works as a Community Wellness and Protection Advisor with the Canadian Red Cross.  Jessica comes from a background in Addiction Counselling with lived and learned experience, which contributes to her work in implementing initiatives that promote physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Jessica believes in the strength of grassroots movements and encourages tangible action plans to create meaningful changes. Beyond her professional endeavours, Jessica finds inspiration and fulfillment in the simple joys of life. Whether she is engaging in the gentle art of beading, a practice that allows her to connect with her cultural roots or sharing moments with her partner and fur baby in the great outdoors, Jessica embraces each day with openness and gratitude.   Michelle Skanes joined the Canadian Red Cross as a Registered Nurse/Public Health Advisor with the Indigenous Peoples Help Desk in 2021.  As a Mi’kmaq woman, and a proud member of the Qalipu First Nation in Newfoundland, Michelle strives to support Indigenous communities across the nation through health promotion initiatives and in community clinical supports.   With a diverse background experience living and working in Indigenous communities, Michelle has been leading the Indigenous Opioid Harm Reduction team within the Canadian Red Cross, with a primary goal of enhancing the existing supports and services to further expand Indigenous cultural safety, relevance and knowledge within the product service line. Michelle comes from a nursing, education and business background, and this formal training combined with lived and learned experience has contributed to the development and direction of the Indigenous Opioid Harm Reduction team.  For the past few years Michelle has been involved in Opioid Harm Reduction and supports that work with training including Indigenous Cultural Safety, Trauma Informed Care, Psychological First Aid, Suicide Prevention, Indigenous Mental Health and Addictions summits, Canadian Nurses Association training in Opioid Use and Opioid Use Disorder, as well as Canadian Red Cross training in First Aid for Opioid Emergencies, Opioid Harm Reduction Champion and Opioid Harm Reduction Leadership Course. She firmly believes that even tiny, positive, strengths-based changes can have immense cumulative positive impacts and integrates advocacy for improvements in the lives of Indigenous peoples on a daily basis both within her work and life.  Collaboratively, one step at a time, we can reduce the impacts of opioids and reduce harm in Indigenous communities.    
Session Details: 
Date: May 23, 2024 Time: 10:00AM – 11:30 AM (PST) Location: Virtual session via Zoom *Once registered the link to the session will be sent out the day prior to the event.  Registration closes two days before the event at 4:00 PM. To ensure your participation, please register before this deadline.
To Register:
Visit our website at www.homesharingbc.ca, under the “Events” tab from the main menu, and click on the session link to sign up.
Can’t Attend Live? We’ve Got You Covered! 
We understand that some of you may have work commitments and might not be able to attend the session live. Don’t worry; The session will be recorded, and if you’ve registered for the session, you’ll receive access to the recording.  
Pre-Submit Your Questions 
For those attending in-person or may not be able to attend, we invite you to pre-submit your questions via this LINK. This will help us prepare information and/or resources in advance.  We answer pre-submitted questions first and time permitting live questions.
Connect with us on social media! Facebook Group Instagram  If you have any questions or need accommodations, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We are here to assist you.
We hope you can join us for this important session. Thank you for being an integral part of our community, and we look forward to seeing you!
Best regards,
Trina Plamondon Executive Director Home Sharing Support Society BC trina@homesharingbc.ca  Ph. 604.243.2430 Web: www.homesharingbc.ca  Home Sharing is Living Better Together   We acknowledge that HSSSBC office operates on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples-Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh & Musqueam First Nations. We respect the land and honour this tradition of land acknowledgment that dates back centuries for Indigenous people.   CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This message and any accompanying documents contain confidential information intended for a specific individual purpose.  This message is private and protected by law.  If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying or distribution, or the taking of any action based on the contents of this information, is strictly prohibited. 
LogoCopyright (C) 2024 Home Sharing Support Society BC. All rights reserved.
Thank-you for signing up for the Home Share Support Society BC’s Newsletter!

Our mailing address is:
Home Sharing Support Society BC 18th Flr, 450 SW Marine Drive Vancouver, British Columbia V5X0C3 Canada

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe
Posted on
New CLBC Program to Protect Home Sharing Providers from Property Damage

Dear Home Sharing Providers,

We are pleased to inform you about the launch of a property support program that will provide home sharing providers with comprehensive insurance coverage against significant property damage and protection from occasional minor property damage (outside of normal wear and tear) caused by individuals supported in home sharing.

We appreciate your dedication and patience over the years while we worked towards this important initiative. Your input and feedback have been instrumental in shaping this program, and we are thrilled to see it come to fruition.

This group policy is effective immediately and fully funded by CLBC. If you provide home sharing services under a contract with an approved CLBC Agency and have homeowner or tenant insurance, you will automatically receive coverage.

Individualized Funding agreements or Person-Centred Societies / Microboards are covered by this program if you have ‘home sharing’ as a funded service in your current CLBC contract. Agents and Directors of Person-Centered Societies should contact their CLBC analyst if they need to make a claim.

We recognize that home sharing providers play a critical role in our services, providing essential support and care to individuals with diverse needs. We also understand that accidents can happen, and damages to homes or property may occur as a result of individual support needs or unforeseen incidents.

The new Home Sharing Property Support Program safeguards home sharing providers through two different streams: 



1. Insurance Rider for Major or Catastrophic Damages:

If you are under contract with an agency, you are eligible for this component which offers extensive protection against major or catastrophic damages. This program aligns with your existing insurance arrangement, providing coverage of up to $500,000 with a deductible of $25,000. We will ensure a smooth claims process for you by covering the deductible if a claim proceeds. Upon enrollment, you will receive a certificate of coverage, completed by your contracting agency, and an adjuster will work collaboratively with you and your agency to assess damages should you need to make a claim.

This program is fully funded by CLBC, and we will work with your contracting agency to arrange payment or reimbursement of any deductible.



2. Reimbursement Program for Minor Damages:

In addition to the Insurance Rider, we are introducing a reimbursement program to cover minor damages. This program reimburses home sharing providers with the cost of repairing minor damages to their homes caused by the individuals they support. Our CLBC funded home sharing agencies will work closely with home sharing providers to assess damages.

When damage occurs, the contracting agency will work closely with the home sharing provider to assess the damage. For damages less than $1,500, agencies can authorize reimbursement directly. For damages over $1,500, agencies will seek pre-approval from their CLBC analyst. Agencies will invoice CLBC on a regular basis for the approved damages, and this approach streamlines the payment process, ensuring efficient approval and payment for minor damages.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the individuals we serve and for being an integral part of the CLBC community.



Additional Resources:

Supporting Documents: To help you learn more about this program and how to make a claim, we have posted further information on our CLBC website including a list of Frequently Asked Questions and a Guidance Document for Agencies (home sharing providers may also find this document helpful). You can view these materials on the Home Sharing Property Support Program webpage here.

Information Session: We have scheduled an information session for home sharing providers and service providers with CLBC staff and the insurance provider. Mark your calendar; the session is on Wednesday, January 17 from 11am to 12pm (PST). Stay tuned for a formal invite! For those who cannot attend, it will be recorded and posted on the CLBC website by the end of January.

If you need further information about the program, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your agency.

Posted on

CLBC Update

Welcome to the November 2023 edition of CLBC’s Update for Individuals and Families. As a reminder, you can find all Updates (including past editions) posted on our website here. You can also check out CLBC’s Facebook page here and Twitter page here. If you know of anyone who would like to receive future Updates, please share the link to our sign up page with them. If you have a specific question, or feedback about this update, you can send an email to CLBCInfo@gov.bc.ca.

Topics in this edition include:

CLBC and Government News
Recognizing Indigenous Disability Awareness Month
Join CLBC’s open board meeting on November 29
Watch for your COVID-19 and flu vaccine invitation
Join the conversation about Community Inclusion Services
Represent your community on CLBC’s Provincial Advisory Committee
Recognizing International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Housing Central conference coming up in November
 
Self Advocacy Corner
Camping out with TALK Northwest
Share your photo with CLBC and the Celebrate Diverse ABILITIES magazine
Why don’t we talk about FASD?
Join People First of Canada’s LGBTQIA2S+ Working Group
Know your rights and responsibilities living in home sharing

Staying Supported and Connected
New Nidus website is now live
Learn with NIDUS about Representation Agreements and what happens after death
Is your family looking to hire support staff? Join this presentation
New accessible Human Rights resources available

CLBC Community Councils
CLBC Community Councils are raising awareness about aging
Volunteer on a CLBC Community Council
Upper Fraser and South Vancouver Island Community Councils hosting open houses in November

Stories and Celebration
Widening Our World (WOW) Award recipients recognized
Reflecting on Community Inclusion Month
Recognizing Remembrance Day and Indigenous Veterans Day  

 
CLBC and Government News


Recognizing Indigenous Disability Awareness Month
 
Logo and hashtag of Indigenous Disability Awareness MonthIndigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM) is recognized each November and officially proclaimed by the government of B.C. to highlight and celebrate the unique contributions First Nations, Métis and Inuit people with disabilities make to communities throughout the province. Created by the BC Aboriginal Disability Network Society (BCANDS) in 2015, the month also brings awareness to the barriers and challenges that Indigenous people with the disabilities and their families face.
 
Read a message from Ross Chilton, CLBC CEO, here.  You can also visit the Indigenous Relations page of the CLBC website here to learn how CLBC’s Indigenous Relations team is building relationships with Indigenous communities and helping individuals and families access culturally safe services. 
 
Join CLBC’s open board meeting on November 29

CLBC will be holding its next open board meeting from 9 AM to 12 PM (PST) on Wednesday, November 29. CLBC eligible individuals, families, service providers and members of the public are welcome to join remotely via the Microsoft Teams meeting platform. The meeting includes reports from the Chairs of CLBC’s Indigenous Advisory Committee and Provincial Advisory Committee.
 
To receive a link to join the meeting, email Padminee.Chundunsing@gov.bc.ca with your name and agency name (if applicable).
 
 Watch for your COVID-19 and flu vaccine invitation
 
Vaccination remains an effective way to protect people from severe illness and hospitalization due to COVID-19. It is important to stay up to date with COVID-19 booster shots, which help keep a high level of protection. Learn more about immunizations on the Government of B.C. website here.
 
Individuals supported by CLBC remain a priority to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Invitations will be sent by email or text message to everyone who has registered to receive a COVID-19 immunization in B.C. The invite will have a direct link to book your COVID-19 and flu appointment online. These vaccines are free and available at pharmacies, health authority clinics and some primary care providers’ offices.
 
If you have questions about your COVID-19 immunization options, or need help booking an appointment, call 1-833-838-2323. The phone line is open from 7 AM to 7 PM every day, and 9 AM to 5 PM on statutory holidays. Translators are available. Telephone service for people who are deaf is available by calling 711 and Video Relay Services (VRS) sign language interpretation is free for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech-impaired.
  
Join the conversation about Community Inclusion Services
 
In October 2023, CLBC began a series of discussions with individuals, families, service providers and key community partners in remote, urban, and Indigenous communities to gather an understanding of people’s experiences, best practices for community inclusion programs, and what ideas people have for the future of these services. The purpose of this work is to identify best practices for community inclusion supports and recommendations for services and programs for people with diverse abilities in B.C.
 
For more information about this project and how to participate, visit the CLBC website here. You can also contact Fred Ford at 250-812-2221 or fred.ford@gov.bc.ca.
 
 Represent your community on CLBC’s Provincial Advisory Committee
 
The Community Living Authority Act requires CLBC’s Board of Directors to establish a Provincial Advisory Committee (PAC) made up of people and families served by CLBC. The PAC provides information and advice to the CLBC Board through its members who represent each of the 13 CLBC Community Councils.
 
The PAC meets in person four times each year and ensures two-way communication between Community Councils and the CLBC Board, highlighting both successes and concerns identified by Councils that have provincial implications for CLBC and the people it serves. You can listen to the experiences of PAC members on the CLBC website here
 
There are currently PAC vacancies from the Upper Fraser, South Central Okanagan, South Vancouver Island and North Region Community Councils.
 
To learn more about the role of PAC and how to volunteer on your local Community Council, contact the CLBC Community Engagement team at CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca.

Members of CLBC's Provincial Advisory Committee

 Recognizing International Day of Persons with Disabilities
 
Every year, December 3 marks United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This day is about promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities and raising awareness of the inclusion of people in all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life.
 Learn more about International Day of Persons with Disabilities Day here. CLBC and others will be sharing posts on Facebook and Twitter (or X), with the hashtag #IDPD2023.

 
Housing Central conference coming up in November

The annual Housing Central conference, hosted by the BC Non-Profit Housing Association (BCNPHA) and the Co-operative Housing Federation of BC (CHF BC), aims to strengthen and grow the community housing sector so all British Columbians have a safe, secure home they can afford.
 
From November 20 to 22, the conference will draw delegates from throughout B.C. and across Canada for three days of learning, networking and engaging with colleagues in the community housing sector.

CLBC is a proud sponsor of this event and will also be sharing information and connecting with attendees as an exhibitor. CLBC staff are involved in a number of sessions at the conference, and CEO Ross Chilton will give a short speech. CLBC will be sharing highlights from the conference on our Facebook and Twitter (or X) pages.

 
Self Advocacy Corner
 
 Camping out with TALK Northwest
 
TALK Northwest Society is one of the four Self Advocacy groups that received grant funding during the pandemic to help people stay safe and connected. As a way to celebrate connection to each other and the lands we live on, TALK Northwest members used the last of their grant funding to host a two-day Kispiox Advocates Camp Conference in September.  
“There were so many special moments shared. The morale was high, the group dynamics were amazing, and everyone was so respectful and encouraging to each other. Everyone raved about their experience and has dreams for a future campout conference event,” said camp leaders.

Read the full story here.

To learn more about TALK Northwest Self Advocacy group, email them at talknorthwest@gmail.com.

A group of self advocates stand and sit together for a group photo outdoors.

 Share your photo with CLBC and the Celebrate Diverse ABILITIES magazine
 
CLBC is looking for high resolution images that showcase the people we support living their best life in community. This might be a picture of you at work, hanging out with friends, at college/university, hosting a party, trying something new, enjoying your hobby, or even just relaxing at home. The top five photos selected will be featured in the next Celebrate Diverse ABILITIES magazine along with a short write-up about each photo. Authors will receive $100 for their photo and story or short write-up.
 
You might be wondering what we mean by high resolution. Please set your camera or phone’s picture quality to “High” or “Large” to capture high resolution pictures. (For any experienced photographers, photos should be at least 300dpi and at least 1000 pixels wide).
 
Do you have a photo you’d like to share with CLBC?  Email them to CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca
 
 Why don’t we talk about FASD?
 
Congratulations to Self Advocacy leader Michael Oswald from the CLBC North Shore Sunshine Coast Community Council who recently had his story on living with the effects of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) published by the Coast Reporter. In his article, “Why don’t we talk about FASD?”, Michael shares his own experiences and asks how we can all bring greater awareness to FASD to reduce the stigma around it.  

Read Michael’s story here.
 
 Join People First of Canada’s LGBTQIA2S+ Working Group
 
The logo of People First Canada.People First of Canada is a national organization representing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. If you are a People First member and you identify as being LGBTQIA2S+, you are invited to apply for their new working group that meets monthly. For more information or to join the group, please send an email to monica@peoplefirstofcanada.ca.
 
Also, did you know there is a BC People First (BCPF) organization that is part of the international People First movement? BCPF has been the independent voice of self advocates in B.C. for over 40 years. The more members who join BCPF, the stronger the voice for self advocates will be. It’s free to join!
 
Learn more about BCPF and how to become a member here.

 Know your rights and responsibilities living in home sharing
 
Are you a self advocate who lives in home sharing? The Home Sharing Support Society of BC is hosting a self advocate-led presentation called “How do you advocate? What you need to know”. The virtual event takes place on Thursday, November 23 from 10 to 11:30 AM (PST).
 
Join the discussion to:Hear common concerns and challenges.
Connect and network with others in home sharing arrangements.
Learn how to advocate for yourself and access support.
Take part in the Question-and-Answer session.  
To register, visit the Home Sharing Support Society of BC website here.

 Staying Supported and Connected
 
 New Nidus website is now live
 
Nidus is a non-profit organization that provides education, support and assistance with personal planning and Representation Agreements. They have developed institutional expertise about the creation, use, and support around these important planning tools. Nidus has recently launched their new website at www.nidus.ca.
 
Check out the new Nidus website for:Information and Resources
Representation Agreement (and related) Forms
Events Calendar
And more…  
 Learn with NIDUS about Representation Agreements and what happens after death
 
With the support of CLBC, Nidus is presenting an information webinar focusing on Representation Agreement Section 7 (RA7) and what happens after death. This session will provide you with valuable insights, practical tips and real-life experiences. All are welcome to attend including services providers, family members, persons with disabilities and CLBC staff.
 
The webinar takes place Tuesday, November 21, from 12 to 1:30 PM (PST). Register for the webinar here.
 
 Is your family looking to hire support staff? Join this presentation
 
Support Worker Central (SWC) is a free, province-wide job board created for people with disabilities and their families who hire their own support staff. The site also shares guidance on hiring staff, your legal obligations, necessary paperwork, and other valuable information needed when becoming an employer. There are currently over 500 profiles of people looking for work on SWC.
 
Join the Family Support Institute for a virtual presentation on Wednesday, November 15 at 7:00 PM (PST) to learn more about how to access this pool of potential staff. During this presentation, you will learn how the job board works, how to post a job, the available resources to help you with hiring staff, as well as an opportunity to ask questions.
 
Register for the “Learn about Support Worker Central” presentation here.


 
 New accessible Human Rights resources available
 
BC’s Office of the Human Rights Commissioner (BCOHRC), together with the Human Rights Tribunal and the Human Rights Clinic at the Community Legal Assistance Society (CLAS), are launching a new set of resources designed to help people understand the system and know who to talk to.
 
Here are some of the new resources:B.C. Human Rights System web portal – A clear and concise overview of each part of B.C.’s human rights system. Visit www.bchumanrightssystem.ca.
 
Short animated videos – These videos introduce what human rights are, how they are protected, and how the human rights system works in B.C. Watch the videos here.
 
Additional resources – A directory of clinics, advocates and organizations offering human rights support, as well as printable handouts in multiple languages that provide information about the human rights system. Visit www.bchumanrightssystem.ca/additional-resources
 
 CLBC Community Councils



CLBC Community Councils are raising awareness about aging

Community Councils across the province are raising awareness on the topic of aging and helping to share information about planning supports available for people and families supported by CLBC who are getting older.
 
On October 11, the North Vancouver Sunshine Coast Council hosted a forum called “Plan for a Better Future”. Participants heard from a parent on her struggles, a self advocate caring for an aging parent, and from the Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. Other speakers included CLBC’s manager of Service and Community Development, and representatives from the Family Support Institute, Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN) BC and the Community Living Society.
 
Read the full story on the CLBC website here.
 
Help us by sharing these resources to support people and families as they age:Aging Resources – Community Living BC
PLAN Institute
Future Planning Tool
Access Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
Information on Personal Support Networks
 If you have any questions about CLBC aging resources, email CLBC.Health@gov.bc.ca.
 
 Volunteer on a CLBC Community Council
 
People who sit on CLBC Community Councils include individuals and families who receive support from CLBC, service provider partners and community allies. These volunteers care about creating culturally safe, accessible, and inclusive communities.
 
In partnership with CLBC, volunteers on Community Councils:Build relationships with community leaders to create a more inclusive B.C.
Connect individuals and their families to information, resources and each other.
Listen to the experience of people and families served by CLBC to make things better.
Take actions that lead to social change and inclusive communities for all people.  
All Councils are currently recruiting volunteers. Contact CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca to learn more.

 Upper Fraser and South Vancouver Island Community Councils hosting open houses in November
 
You are invited to attend these upcoming gatherings to learn how Councils are making a difference and find out ways to get involved:
 
Upper Fraser Council GatheringWhen: November 8 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Where: CLBC office at #201 – 2777 Gladwin Road in Abbotsford
RSVP: Alison.Lowe@gov.bc.ca
South Vancouver Island GatheringWhen: November 28, 2023, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Where: CLBC office at #410 – 29 Helmcken Road in Victoria
(There is also the option to join virtually. RSVP for access to the MS Teams link.)
RSVP: CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca
For more information, visit the CLBC Community Councils website here and/or contact the CLBC Community Engagement Team at CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca.
 
Stories and Celebration
 
 Widening Our World (WOW) Award recipients recognized
 
The recipients of the 2023 CLBC Widening Our World (WOW) Awards are being recognized with award presentation celebrations in their local communities for their inclusive hiring practices and workplaces.
 
We’re sharing photos and stories from these events at www.CommunityLivingBC.ca/WOW, where you can also learn more about this year’s recipients who were selected from an amazing field of nominees: Keith Larson – Redux Nutrition, Chilliwack
Bobbi Hunt – Mark’s Work Wearhouse, Abbotsford
Brendon Osborn – Cintas, Langley
Kylah Bryde – North Peace Leisure Pool, City of Fort St. John
 Reflecting on Community Inclusion Month
 
As Community Inclusion Month wrapped up last week, we want to highlight how important this time has been. It has been a month where we focus on embracing diversity and fostering a sense of belonging in our communities. Everyone has a part to play in building inclusion and we all benefit when there is opportunity for everyone to achieve their potential. There were many great Community Inclusion Month events held in communities across the province this year and we want to thank everyone who got involved, whether by joining events, organizing them or working with local governments to recognize this important time of recognition, celebration and awareness. Your efforts have helped create more welcoming and inclusive communities for all.
 
Visit CLBC’s Community Inclusion Month webpage here to find highlights from the month.

Many people stand side by side on a sidewalk to form an inclusion chain.
 
 Signing Off
 
Every November, Canadians recognize November 8 as Indigenous Veterans Day and November 11 as Remembrance Day. These days honour those who have served and continue to serve Canada during times of war, conflict and peace.

Read a statement recognizing today’s Indigenous Veteran’s Day from Premier David Eby, Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, and Mitzi Dean, B.C.’s military liaison.
 
Self Advocate Net has created a page on their website here to share information and messages recognizing Remembrance Day.
 
Until next edition…
Posted on
 
Update on shelter rate increase for supported individuals in CLBC home sharing or staffed homes
Further to the July 7, 2023 Info Bulletin on the CLBC Individual Financial Contribution Policy and the government’s shelter rate increase, we are writing to provide an update on the upcoming increases.

The Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction (SDPR) is now implementing the shelter rate increases. To make sure all home sharing and staffed home providers can access the government’s $125 increase to the maximum shelter allowance rates for individuals on disability assistance, effective August 2023:CLBC’s standardized individual financial contribution rate for people who are under 65 and receive PWD will increase from $716.13 to $841.13.
 CLBC will provide an equivalent increase in payments to home sharing providers for people who are age 65+ and receive OAS/GIS.
CLBC has worked with the Ministry to have increases for individuals under 65 flow through to home sharing and staffed home providers. If supported individuals do not have the right information in their Shelter Information Forms, additional steps may be required. CLBC has notified agencies about these individuals and the steps required to update Shelter Information Forms.

The Ministry is recommending that individuals who need to submit an updated Shelter Information Form do so as soon as possible. SDPR has indicated that, even though the change may not be reflected in the July 19th, 2023 (August benefit month) cheque, the payment amount will be adjusted as per the start date reflected in the Shelter Information Form (eg. August 1, 2023).

As noted above, CLBC will be providing increases to service provider Home Sharing contracts to match individual contribution rate increases for people age 65+ who receive OAS/GIS (i.e. $125/month increase for individuals on OAS/GIS effective August 1, 2023). The process for updating contracts takes some time and may differ among agencies. Increases will be retroactive. If you have questions regarding the timing and process for receiving this increase, please speak to your coordinating agency.

Questions about the maximum shelter rate increase or how to update a shelter information form can be directed to the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction through My Self Serve or by phone at 1-866-866-0800.
If you would like to be removed from this e-mail distibution list, please click here 
Posted on

PWD Shelter Rate Increases

Important information on upcoming
PWD shelter rate increases
Hello Service Provider Colleagues,

I am writing to you because your agency coordinates home sharing resources and/or staffed living services through contracts with CLBC.

As I believe you are aware, Community Living BC has been working in partnership with the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction (MSDPR) to confirm under what circumstances individuals on disability assistance who reside in home sharing and staffed living services will automatically receive the $125 shelter rate increase. The increase was announced in the B.C. Government’s budget in February 2023 and goes into effect on August 1, 2023. Under CLBC policy, the shelter increase will be passed on to the individual’s home sharing or staffed living provider.

MSDPR will be providing a message to all individuals on disability assistance in early July via My Self Serve or mail. The letter will include the following statement:

“Clients who reside in Community Living British Columbia (CLBC) contracted residential facilities will have their CLBC standardized rate automatically updated to include the increase and no action is required.”
 
This means that if the individual has the standardized rate of $716 or $716.13 registered as their current rental expense, they will see that amount automatically increase to $841 or $841.13. If an individual does not receive the current standardized rate of $716 or $716.13 from the Ministry, they may need to update their information by completing a Shelter Information Form (HR3037) and submitting it through MSDPR’s My Self Serve system at Myselfserve.gov.bc.ca, or in an MSDPR office.  If an individual is not sure what their current shelter allowance is, they can check My Self Serve, review their last direct deposit cheque statement or review their cheque stub if they receive a paper cheque from the Ministry. When completing the Shelter Information form (HR3037), in the section titled “Type of Rental Accommodation”, they should check “D. Other” and please specify “CLBC Home Share Provider”.  In the section titled “Accommodation Information”, they should include the new Total Rent of the Unit (i.e., $841.13).

In the first couple of weeks of July, CLBC will be sending you a list from MSDPR of individuals who are receiving home support services through your agency and who do not have the standardized rates registered with MSDPR. Because of the tight turnaround time before disability assistance is disbursed, we recommend that if individuals know they have non-standardized rates, they update their shelter information with MSDPR by July 10 or sooner. If an individual is unable to make that timeframe, the Ministry can process their shelter information form anytime and issue a separate payment for the August benefit month based on the individual’s form confirming the change happened for August 1, 2023. 

Thanks in advance for your assistance in communicating with individuals, their families and their home support providers to ensure they are fully aware of these changes to their shelter rate and what steps they may need to take to receive it.

Individuals with questions about the shelter increases should be directed to MSDPR through My Self Serve or, where the individual is not registered for My Self Serve, by contacting the Ministry at 1-866-866-0800.

Sincerely,
 
John Stinson
VP, Service Delivery and Innovation
Community Living BC
Accessibility