In early June, Executive Director Lisa Tesler joined fellow state disability advocates in meetings with state legislators to discuss expanding a successful state project: the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Intellectual Disability/Autism (ID/A) Supportive Housing Pilot.
The original pilot supported 153 people across 10 counties in finding and keeping homes and apartments. Its success is documented including through Council’s publication, “Two Years of Stories and Outcomes: Office of Developmental Programs Intellectual Disability/Autism (ID/A) Supportive Housing Pilot“. Participants not only secured stable housing, but also built skills, increased their independence, and reported being happier.
Council’s role has been to document changes in quality of life, personal perspectives and satisfaction from the participants and families. It is also creating a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help people in the pilot and professionals learn what works best to build strong, effective practices.
Back Left to right: Lisa Tesler, Rachel Buskirk, Ely Yoder, Sarah Cassin from Senator Jay Costa’s Office, Brianna Brennan, Karen Gutierrez
Front seated left-right: Lisa Sportelli, Alyssa Gribbens, Cheryl Chappell and David Chappell
On July 1, 2026 The Housing Pilot Program will expand to six more counties, and will continue to:
- Promote everyone’s right to choose where they live
- Maximize freedom, choice, and self-determination
- Help people find and keep housing in the community with the services they need
- Save critical funding — helping address the ODP waiting list for services
While meeting with legislators, Tesler and other advocates urged them to further expand the pilot project statewide as well as to designate a permanent funding source.
To be considered for the housing pilot program, you must be enrolled in Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) services. Each county has a unique application process. If you are interested in being considered, you should contact your supports coordinator and/or your administrative entity for more information on how to apply. Those enrolled in ODP services in Bradford/Sullivan, Centre, Chester, Delaware, Erie, Greene, Lancaster, Lehigh, or Westmoreland counties may inquire now. Those enrolled in ODP services in Carbon/Monroe/Pike, Montgomery, and Cumberland/Perry may inquire after July 1.
Learn More About the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Intellectual Disability/Autism (ID/A) Supportive Housing Pilot
Intellectual Disability/Autism (ID/A) Supportive Housing Pilot Model, Purpose, Structure
One Page Pilot Project Results Overview
Two Years of Stories and Outcomes Report
Focus Group Insight Report Intellectual Disabilities/Autism (ID/A) Housing Pilot Spring 2026