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Supportive housing

Supportive living is a philosophy and approach that promotes independent living for residents within a residential housing setting while offering access to care and additional services to meet their evolving needs. Supportive living caters to a diverse range of individuals, including seniors requiring age-related support services as well as younger individuals with mental health or physical disabilities. Supportive living accommodations come in various sizes, appearances and service offerings, encompassing seniors' lodges, group homes and adult family living or family care homes.

These accommodations play a crucial role in creating inclusive communities where residential integration contributes to the overall well-being of the residents. They are also vital in addressing the increasing demand for specialized housing options in Airdrie.

The City of Airdrie's Land Use Bylaw classifies supportive living accommodations into two categories: Supportive housing, limited and supportive housing, general.

  • Supportive housing, limited: accommodation integrated within residential areas, offering on-site professional care and supervision. Services provided may include regular housekeeping, nursing care, personal care, health and wellness support, and recreational activities.
    This category includes group homes and congregate care facilities, but excludes institutions such as extended medical treatment centers or detention and correctional facilities.
  • Supportive housing, general: institutional care facilities that provide residential accommodation alongside professional care, supervision, and health treatment services.
    This category encompasses large-scale centers and facilities that require special considerations for siting due to their scale and service requirements, which may impact neighbouring lands.

Impact on property values

The City of Airdrie has no substantiated evidence indicating that non-market housing, including supportive housing, has a negative effect on the value of neighbouring properties. The value of residential real estate, both in terms of assessment and sale value, is primarily influenced by local and global economic factors rather than the introduction of new non-market housing within the community.

Local property value assessments are shaped by various factors, such as location and lot characteristics. Elements such as the shape, size and proximity to commercial areas, transit infrastructure and essential services play a significant role. The income level or ownership status of residents within a particular development does not factor into property value assessments.

If non-market housing is well-designed, fits in with the surrounding neighbourhood, and is well managed, property values of neighbouring homes are not negatively impacted.

Impact on community safety

There is no correlation or evidence to suggest that supportive housing increases crime and disorder. Social disorder linked with homelessness occurs when people do not have suitable homes and support. Supportive housing can help to fix this problem.