Vacant English Montreal School Board building to become home for adults with autism

The English Montreal School Board (EMSB) and the non-profit Autism House organization have come to an agreement to convert an abandoned building in Montreal’s Ahuntsic neighbourhood into a home for young adults living with autism.

“This is how we build a community with a brighter and healthier beginning,” said Autism House board member Steve Atme, who himself is on the spectrum.

Autism is being diagnosed more and more in Canada, and finding support can be hard at all ages.

The spectrum disorder ranges in severity. Some people with a more severe case require constant care and supportive housing. Adults with a low to moderate diagnosis are typically able to live independently.

READ MORE: Parents of adults with severe autism say they’re ‘terrified’ for their kids’ futures

The transition to adulthood can be particularly difficult, as those who struggle to become independent have a hard time finding safe, affordable places to live on their own.

“They have second thoughts about the ‘what ifs’ because of stereotypical reasons, which shouldn’t be the case,” Atme said.

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He is among those taking part in the effort to make autonomous living easier. After a $4-million renovation, including some sensory adjustments, the vacant building will house 20 studio apartments where young adults can stay and get support as they learn to be independent.

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“You need to prove to yourself and to your family that you can be autonomous.”

Hervé and his wife Rosemary Maratta, an occupational therapist, have been working on the project for five years.

“I wish we had had something like that,” Atme said of his own upbringing. As a child he had difficulty speaking and understanding instructions. As an adult, he’s a filmmaker, musician and motivational speaker.

For Hervé and Maratta, bringing those living on the spectrum directly into the process was crucial.

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“Our time and expertise as board members is the least we can do to contribute to the benefit of our children who are growing up in a society that may be accepting of autism today, but still lacks the inclusion and basic needs,” said May Al Othman, another Autism House board member who is on the spectrum.

She said people with autism have the ability to become independent, they just need to get the right support.

Hervé told Global News he sees the new residence as something similar to student housing.

READ MORE: Montreal-area teen author considers being affected by autism a ‘blessing’

“Autistic adults are like students. They make the same income as students. Our young adults in this transition platform will be paying rent. They are paying market rent for a studio.”

Hervé says the building, which used to house nuns, will be completely gutted. He estimates the renovations will cost $4 million and will take a few years.

The initiative is made possible with funding from a mortgage, foundations, and through the kindness of volunteers.

“It makes you feel good about getting up in the morning when people care,” he added.

He said he hopes the home becomes proof that something like this can work, and sparks similar projects elsewhere.

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