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What California SB 79 Means for I/DD Housing, Community Care Homes, and Day Programs
For many of us, “home” is something we rarely have to think about. But for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), finding a place to call home is not always guaranteed.
A Movement Rooted in Home
At Life Services Alternatives, we believe that everyone deserves to live on their own terms, and every day we are working to bring that belief to life through our Lead Us Home campaign. This movement brings together organizations, advocates, families, and policymakers with a shared goal: ensuring that every adult with I/DD has access to safe, stable housing.
Through collaboration with local and state leaders, we’ve helped advocate for zoning changes and essential funding to support community care facilities while also connecting families on our waitlist with critical housing resources and support coordinators.
One milestone we hold close came in early 2025, when we opened our Spring Avenue Home in Morgan Hill. Each new home we open is a bigger step toward creating spaces where individuals with I/DD can thrive. These homes are more than buildings, they’re the start of new chapters for the lives of individuals with I/DD.
However, there is still so much more to be done. Through our Lead Us Home campaign, you can help make more of these moments possible. Visit https://leadushome.org/ to learn more and be part of our mission.
Moving Forward, Together
As we continue our work, we are also navigating the changes in California’s housing policy. California’s SB 79, also known as the Abundant and Affordable Homes Near Transit Act, was signed into law to integrate housing services and public transportation. For organizations of our size, the bill poses a threat to specialized community care models. Taking effect July 1, 2026, California’s SB 79 overrides local zoning to allow larger housing developments within a half-mile of major transit shops. At LSA, we believe a one-size-fits all housing mandate overlooks the need for quiet, stable neighborhoods, risking the displacement of individuals who thrive in residential settings.
Through it all, we are actively advocating and reinforcing the stability of our homes, leading with the care and practices that have uplifted our community. As a community-living program, we provide residents with housing, as well as personalized support, transportation, medical coordination, and meaningful community engagement, all delivered by trusted staff who understand each individual. Our day programs are designed to be person-centered, with schedules built around each volunteer’s goals and interests.
Today, many adults with I/DD in Santa Clara County face an uncertain future. More than 6,000 families are trying to find their loved ones housing, and across California, over 100,000 people with I/DD will need housing and support. It’s a crisis that is happening and needs to be addressed. By investing in creative housing solutions and expanding support networks, we can transform this uncertainty into stability. Together, we can ensure every individual has a safe place to call home.
Learn more about how LSA provides services for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (I/DD)
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California Is Updating Community Care Facilities (CCF) Service Levels: What Families Should Know
Starting in January 2025, California’s Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is changing how it classifies group homes for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. These changes affect something called “service levels.” While the terms are changing, the care your loved one receives should stay the same—or even improve. Here’s what you need to know.
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