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Pathways to Independent Living

There are many good ways to have a home of your own. Sammy's Place helps people experiencing disabilities, and their families, find the path that fits.

You can own a home, rent, or share a home, with the supports you choose. Each pathway below has a short description and free places to get help on the Oregon coast. Go at your own pace.

Not sure where to start? Talk to your services coordinator or personal agent, call 211, or email admin@oregoncoaast.org.

People tidepooling on an Oregon beach, including a person in an all-terrain track wheelchair looking toward ocean rocks with helpers nearby.

Buying a home

Owning a home is a big step, taken one step at a time. First, take a homebuyer education class and get your certificate. Then work with Proud Ground, a community land trust that helps people buy homes that stay affordable. Thompson Springs in Nehalem is one of the homes you could choose. Home sales start in 2027.

Learn about Thompson Springs Join the interest list

Renting a home

Renting is a good choice, and many people live on their own in a rental. Housing authorities have affordable rentals and housing vouchers (often called Section 8). Waiting lists open and close, so ask when the list is open and how to stay on it.

Help with rent & bills

Need help with rent, a deposit, or power bills? Local help may be there. Some help opens and closes during the year, so call to ask what is open in your county.

Supports to live on your own

If you get I/DD services, you can get help to live in your own place: help at home, help with daily tasks, or help to hire a worker you choose. Ask your services coordinator or personal agent, "What supports can help me live on my own?" Not getting services yet? Apply at your county developmental disabilities program (CDDP).

Sharing a home

Some people share a home with a roommate or housemate. It can cost less, and you have company. Your services coordinator or personal agent can help you plan for a roommate and the supports you need.

  • HomeShare OregonMatches people who have a room with people who need oneA fee may apply.

Making a home work for you

A ramp, grab bars, wider doors, or bathroom changes can make a home safer and easier to use. If you rent, you can ask your landlord for changes you need because of a disability. This is called a reasonable modification.

Your housing rights

You have the right to fair housing. A landlord cannot treat you unfairly because of a disability. You can ask for a reasonable accommodation, which is a change to a rule because of a disability. Free help can explain your rights.

Money, benefits & saving

Owning a home, renting, or getting a job can change your benefits. Talk to a free benefits counselor before big money changes. A free money coach can help with a budget and credit. An ABLE account lets many people with disabilities save money and keep SSI and Medicaid.

Questions? We are glad to help.

Your life can change, and your plans can too. Check in with us anytime. Need this page another way, like large print or Easy Read? Just ask.

Email admin@oregoncoaast.org More help near you
Equal Housing Opportunity

Sammy's Place supports equal housing opportunity. We welcome homebuyers of all abilities and backgrounds.