CanFASD is proud to share an important milestone for FASD-informed housing in Canada. Last year, the New Brunswick FASD Centre of Excellence launched the New Brunswick FASD Supportive Housing Framework. Developed at the request of several provincial government departments and shaped through collaboration with community organizations and parent advocates, this framework represents a meaningful step forward in responding to the housing realities faced by individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).
Why supportive housing matters
Stable, supportive housing is foundational to health, safety, and overall well-being. Yet for many people with FASD – both in New Brunswick and across the country – finding and maintaining safe housing remains a significant challenge. Neurodevelopmental differences, service gaps, and systemic barriers can increase the risk of homelessness, poor health outcomes, and involvement with the legal system. In the context of Canada’s ongoing housing crisis, these challenges are often amplified.
Housing responses frequently focus on increasing supply and affordability. While important, these approaches alone do not address the complex, everyday realities faced by individuals with FASD. Research shows that up to 80% of youth and adults with FASD experience difficulty maintaining independent housing due to challenges related to memory, cognition, emotional regulation, financial insecurity, and limited access to FASD-informed supports. Without appropriate accommodations, individuals may be misunderstood or unfairly stigmatized, further increasing their risk of housing instability.
Evidence consistently shows that housing stability for people with FASD depends on flexible, individualized, and FASD-informed supports. Safe housing is not just about having a place to live – it’s about having the right supports in place to make that housing sustainable. Interdependent housing models that balance autonomy with ongoing assistance are key to supporting long-term success and well-being.
A milestone for New Brunswick
The New Brunswick FASD Supportive Housing Framework responds directly to these needs, offering a clear and sustainable path toward more accessible and appropriate housing options in the province. Its development reflects the power of collaboration, bringing together provincial government departments, community organizations, and parent advocates to create a shared vision for change.
While the launch of the framework is an important milestone, it is only the beginning. Meaningful impact will depend on thoughtful implementation, ongoing training, cross-sector collaboration, and continuous evaluation to ensure housing programs remain effective and responsive to diverse needs. The framework also offers a model that other provinces and territories can learn from as they work to strengthen FASD-informed housing across Canada.
The New Brunswick FASD Supportive Housing Framework is available in both English and French, helping to ensure accessibility and broad use. CanFASD applauds this important step forward and looks forward to continued collaboration to support safe, stable housing for individuals with FASD.