Opinion: We’re creating integrated communities through supportive housing

Written by Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch, original found here: https://events.in.gov/event/creating-integrated-communities-through-supportive-housing

"Scarcity of housing is one of the most acute problems facing our state and nation. Individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD) are not immune to housing struggles; indeed, many face a severe shortage of safe, affordable and accessible housing.

Even where housing is available to people with I/DD, there is a significant lack of community integration and these individuals can be isolated and face housing discrimination. This presents not only a problem for the individuals themselves but also for their families and caregivers. In many cases, families with an I/DD child – including adult children - have been forced to place their loved one in an institution or a group home, and if none is available, to provide them with a place at home without support or services.

One of the agencies in my office’s family of business, the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA), recognizes the need to provide supportive housing to I/DD individuals and their families, and is dedicated to growing the amount of permanent, affordable housing paired with services that help people live more stable, productive lives.

Beginning in 2018 and continuing every year since, IHCDA has set aside a certain number of tax credit awards for developments that commit to serving individuals with I/DD by providing affordable housing in an integrated setting. In the most recent Qualified Allocation Plan, 10% of available annual Rental Housing Tax Credits were set aside for developments that commit to serving individuals with I/DD.

IHCDA has observed consistent activity in the development of supportive housing units dedicated to people with I/DD. Over the six years the set-aside has included I/DD developments, IHCDA has seen 362 units established in 32 developments spread across 22 cities and towns across the state. These include communities of every size, from population centers like Indianapolis to small towns like Ellettsville. Communities with I/DD units dot Indiana from north to south and east to west.

Providing housing for I/DD individuals is essential to their physical and mental well-being. Access to safe and supportive environments reduces stress, anxiety, and the risk of exploitation or abuse. Housing options tailored to the needs of individuals with I/DD empower them to live independently and make choices about their living arrangements. Supported living arrangements offer help with regular tasks while respecting the individual’s autonomy.

Furthermore, tying housing to supportive services gives these residents the opportunity not only to integrate with their neighbors, but their communities at large. This promotes access to employment opportunities, economic independence and self-sufficiency, as well as giving them better access to healthcare, counseling and skill-building programs.

IHCDA has interacted extensively with I/DD individuals occupying these units as well as their families. The stories they share are overwhelmingly positive. For many I/DD people, the chance to live in an integrated community gives them a sense of dignity, security and belonging. They describe moving in as a life-changing event and are eager to share how they’ve decorated their home, how they cook for themselves and their career plans. Their families are equally grateful, as they see their child or sibling achieving a level of independence that was previously unavailable.

Notably, this work has been noticed by other states. IHCDA’s efforts on behalf of I/DD individuals received the Award for Program Excellence in the Housing for Persons with Special Needs category by the National Council of State Housing Agencies.

IHCDA will continue to not only address the housing needs of I/DD individuals but to ensure every I/DD Hoosier feels safe and welcome in their community."