2505 Oxford Street
Halifax, NS
B3L 2T5

Email: hil@hfx.eastlink.ca

To promote quality programs, training, accommodation and services that support young adults with physical disabilities who choose to empower themselves by striving to reach their goals related to living more independently in the community.

The History

Founded by the Canadian Paraplegic Association in 1980, Homes for Independent Living (HIL) incorporated as a non-profit charitable organization to support persons with physical disabilities. Its focus was promoting independence and providing access to accessible housing in the community for individuals with physical disabilities.

In 1982, the Oxford Street Learning Centre (OSLC) opened its doors to six participants who resided at the home and went on to become the first OSLC graduates. These graduates became the first of many successful individuals living independently in the community.

In recognition of the shortage of accessible housing, HIL opened the Ida Mae Marriott apartments in 1985; providing barrier-free independent housing.

Some years later, HIL continued to expand to fulfill its mission with the creation of the Community Outreach Programs (the Outreach). This 1997 initiative eases the adjustment of OSLC's graduates in re-entering the community by providing a follow-up period and on-going support. Through the Outreach, these individuals have regular follow-up from HIL staff while living independently in the Community.

HIL has strived for many years to be innovative and ground setting in its efforts to support the community of persons with disabilities. In the mid-nineties, HIL began the Attendant Registry Services (ARS) from the ground up. This database was to house potential attendants who were in search of employment so that consumers in need of support could access the database to find potential applicants. Through the generosity of grants and financial support of organizations, the ARS was operational in 1997-98. After a year of operation, the anticipated support and usage for this service had not evolved and with great regret and the lack of financial support, the ARS was de-activated.

Through its several years of existence, HIL has experienced many set backs and hardships, however the opening of the IMM, the successful creation and operation of the Outreach, and most importantly, the independent living of the OSLC graduates continues to provide a sense of satisfaction and success for the organization.

Top of Page


The Respite Care Program

The Respite Care Program (RCP) is a functioning part of the Oxford Street Learning Centre. The Centre is equipped with a single respite room for adults with physical disabilities. Respite offers a safe, comfortable and supportive setting for an individual with a private bedroom, 24 hour staffing and a barrier-free environment.

Both short and long term stays can be arranged for a person meeting Hill's admission criteria which is based on the ability to meet the applicant's needs, the Department of Community Services licensing criteria, staffing levels, and fire codes (but not limited to). The fee for this program is based upon the current per diem rate as determined by the Department of Community Services.

Each case is unique and usage of the RCP is determined based on individual need. To access this resource, HIL requires a completed application and confirmation of payment/funding. HIL will make every effort to provide this service to individuals but will not approve applicants if we are not able to adequately meet the individuals' needs.

Top of Page


The Community Outreach Program

The Community Outreach Program (the Outreach) is a transitional program for successful graduates of the Oxford Street Learning Centre. These individuals are now prepared and ready to live independently within the community. A liaison from HIL will provide supportive follow-up and direction with independent living for graduates to accomplish gradual self-sufficiency.

Participants have continual access to resources at HIL to continue with their goal setting and achievement. They are also encouraged to participate in selected programming activities and social gatherings. With the Liaison's support, they take control of all the aspects of household, personal and life skills management. Through this on-going transitional program, the Outreach participants are able to achieve their goals of independent living with greater ease.

Top of Page


Ida Mae Marriott Apartments

The Ida Mae Marriott Apartments (IMM) was opened in 1985 by Homes for Independent Living to provide persons with physical disabilities an opportunity to find accessible housing. IMM offers six barrier-free rental units housed on one level for its tenants to live independently. The complex features coin operated laundry facilities, an on site superintendent and a friendly atmosphere nestled in a peaceful and quiet area. Each apartment has ramped patio doors onto a private patio surrounded by gardens and trees. It's a touch of the country in Metro.

Features specific to the barrier-free design include wider hallways and doorways that allow easier movement for persons using wheelchairs, light switches and electrical outlets are placed seating height to ensure accessibility, as well as wide angled peep holes at both sitting and standing eye levels. Wheel-in showers with adjustable showerheads coined with front deck-mounted lever faucets allow easy access in the washrooms. Kitchens with wheel-in sinks and ranges allow independence with cooking and adjustable cabinet making for easier storage.

Located at the end Lyon's Avenue in the Spryfield area of Metro, IMM provides its tenants with a safe and relaxing environment that promotes independence and self-reliance. IMM is conveniently located near shopping, medical facilities, restaurants, schools, churches, banks, and public services and has a bus stop close by.

Top of Page


The Oxford Street Learning Centre

The Oxford Street Learning Centre (OSLC) opened its doors in 1982 in the residential Chebucto area to six individuals with physical disabilities, requiring support and/or life skills training to live independently within the community.

OSLC offers a program where participants identify personal goals, and build upon existing life skills to advance through the stages of the program to enable them to live independently in the community with the necessary supports. To accommodate the varying levels of abilities, both individual and the group programs are in place. Programming is offered in the following areas: education, employment, volunteering, social, recreational, personal, household, and personal care management. Participants also take part in weekly, monthly and special events throughout the year. Staff will support Participants' with routine reviews and progress updates as OSLC is not a permanent placement

An on site Program Coordinator works directly with the participants and staff to create and expand the wide range of programs and activities that are offered. OSLC is equipped with 24 hour Life Skill Coaches that provide support, direction and encouragement to the participants.

In addition to these features, OSLC is a completely barrier-free environment equipped with private bedrooms, cable hook- ups, and resource library with computer/internet for participants use.

For anyone interested in learning more about OSLC or becoming a participant, some criteria include:

• must be 18 years of age or older
• have a physical disability
• want to live independently and be willing to learn life skills

For more information on any of HIL's programs, how to become a volunteer,
make a donation or join our membership, please contact:

Sandy Strickland-Cormier Executive Director Phone: (902) 422-9591	Lee-Anne Penny Program Coordinator Phone: (902) 423-5277
In writing: Homes for Independent Living 2505 Oxford Street Halifax, NS B3L 2T5 Email: hil@hfx.eastlink.ca

Top of Page

Supported by
Kings Regional Rehabilitation Centre
Technical Resource Centre