Camphill Launches New Home to Expand Choice and Independence

Barrie, ON – On Friday October 3, Camphill Communities Ontario, in partnership with Camphill Foundation Canada, celebrated the opening of a new affordable and supportive home in Barrie, built to empower two individuals with developmental disabilities to live with greater independence and dignity. The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together community members, partners, and local leaders, including Mayor Alex Nuttall, to mark this milestone in inclusive, person-centred housing.

The home will provide independence and belonging for individuals with developmental disabilities, and marks a major step in Camphill’s 2021–2026 Strategic Plan to expand individualized supported living. Over the next several years, larger group homes will be replaced with smaller supportive housing, ensuring no more than two or three people live in each location.

"This is a dramatic shift in the style of supported living typically available for individuals with developmental disabilities,” said Larry Palmer, Executive Director of Camphill Communities Ontario. “It is a lasting testament to Camphill’s dedication to providing the best quality of life possible, and a reflection of our commitment to creating homes that foster greater choice, autonomy, and dignity for those we support.”

Mayor Alex Nuttall praised the initiative: “By partnering with organizations like Camphill, we’re able to deliver innovative housing solutions. This project is proof that when local government and community partners work together, we can create affordable, supportive housing that respects independence, dignity, and fiscal responsibility."

This home benefitted from contributions of materials, labour, and services from local contractors and trades, and received Housing Community Improvement Plan (CIP) Funding through The City of Barrie’s Summer 2024 Per Door Grant. It is one of several new innovative housing projects underway at Camphill.