Supported Independent Living (SIL) provides personalized support for people with developmental disabilities who are living on their own in the community.

Services are provided through direct support and by linking people with resources in the community, and are offered on a one-to-one basis and in groups. Support is based on the needs, interests and goals of each person.

Education

Our adult educations courses include, but are not limited to:

• Planning, goal setting and problem solving.
• Developing and maintaining job skills (paid and volunteer).
• Communication and literacy.
• Socialization and interpersonal skills.
• Basic hygiene, self-care and care of clothing.
• Housekeeping.
• Menu planning, food selection and meal preparation.
• Money concepts and budgeting.
• Use of medication.
• Safety and recognition of hazards at home and in the community.
• Use of public transportation.
• Use of leisure time and recreational facilities.
• Coping with emergencies.

In addition to providing classes and workshops, the Supported Independent Living team also runs social groups for men and women, and a collective kitchen and garden.

Employment & Volunteering

Supported Independent Living teaches people how to find and learn a new job. We also help the people we serve to learn about volunteering in the community.

Support to Families

Supported Independent Living provides information and support to families in such areas as:

• Applying for Passports funding.
• Learning about government funding and supports.
• Finding suitable caregivers.
• Getting to know other families.
• Helping to form circles of support / support groups.
• Providing emotional support when it is needed.
• Referring/ connecting to the appropriate community supports and services.

Northern Learning Centre

The NLC was established in Fenelon Falls in 1997 and is a part of our Supported Independent Living (SIL) program.

The Northern Learning Centre operates Wednesdays, September through June. The group meets at the Fenelon Falls United Church and is run by Community Living Trent Highlands staff and volunteers. Members work on their skills in reading, writing, math and money, arts and crafts, journaling, budgeting, telling time and Canadian studies. Celebrations are held along the way for holidays, birthdays and other special occasions. On occasion, a guest speaker will come out to the Northern Learning Centre to share special knowledge or talents.

In addition to the Centre's activities on Wednesdays, Community Living Trent Highlands offers a cooking class at the church every Thursday. The members of the cooking group plan, shop for, prepare and enjoy a meal together.