Becoming Ready for What Comes Next: Steven’s Housing Journey with ABLE2

Steven has lived in Ottawa for most of his life. He shares a home with his mother, and balances two part-time jobs—one as a City of Ottawa maintenance worker, and another doing data entry for a taxi company. In his free time, he hangs out with his friends, goes to the movies, and plays guitar. Writing has also become an important outlet for him, and he recently published a memoir about growing up with autism. 

“It’s about determination,” he explains. “About learning how to work with my condition, not against it.” 

Steven’s book ‘Life so Far’ is available here.

That same determination drives a goal Steven holds close—living independently one day.

“My goal is to move out of my mom’s home one day,” Steven shares. “There’s no rush right now, but I want to be ready. My parents won’t be around forever, and when the time comes, I want a safe, decent place to live.”

It’s a goal many people with disabilities share, but one that Ottawa’s housing landscape makes difficult to pursue. Rising costs, limited availability, and lengthy waitlists create barriers for almost anyone searching for a home. For individuals navigating disability-related challenges on top of that, the process can feel especially unforgiving.

Steven began taking steps early. In 2022, he registered with the Ottawa Housing Registry, believing he had set the process in motion. He later discovered his application had never been received. It was a frustrating setback, but it led him to ABLE2’s Housing Support Program, where he was connected with Adult Protective Services Worker (APSW) Patricia. Together, they reapplied, and this time Steven received confirmation that his application was successfully in the system.

Since then, Steven and Patricia have met monthly to navigate paperwork, review housing options, and work through the practical steps of preparing for independent living. They’ve also focused on financial readiness—budgeting, building savings, and planning for the future.

“It’s helpful,” Steven says simply. “It doesn’t hurt to have extra help.”

That steady, consistent support matters. Even when progress feels slow, having someone checking in, answering questions, and helping him plan, makes the journey feel manageable rather than overwhelming.

Steven’s housing goal may still be years away, but he is focused on being ready when the moment comes. He hopes to secure full-time employment, continue saving, and eventually move into a place of his own. In the meantime, APSW Patricia ensures he isn’t navigating these complex systems alone.

Beyond housing, Steven also hopes his story changes how people think about disability. “Someone once told my mom I wouldn’t be able to socialize or do much,” he recalls. “But I proved that wrong.” He has made the Dean’s List in college, holds down two jobs, published a book, and continues to build a life rich with purpose and joy.

ABLE2’s Housing Support Program exists not just to help people find housing, but to empower individuals to pursue independence with confidence. For people like Steven, having consistent guidance and support throughout the journey makes the process feel less daunting—and a life of independence feel within reach.

About ABLE2’s Housing Support Program

ABLE2’s Housing Support Program provides individualized support to help people with developmental disabilities prepare for independent living. Through one-on-one work with Adult Protective Services Workers (APSWs), clients:

• Explore housing options and understand what’s available
• Develop essential life skills like budgeting and self-advocacy
• Navigate housing waitlists and application processes
• Connect with community resources and supports
• Build confidence and readiness for independent living

The program recognizes that everyone’s timeline is different, and that true independence can be attained by building a strong foundation of skills and a solid network of support. 

Learn more about ABLE2’s Housing Support Program here.