Changing lives through connection
We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live independently, make their own choices, and be part of a community that cares.
Empowering independence through life-sharing
Homies was founded on a simple belief: that people with disabilities deserve the same opportunities to live independently, build meaningful relationships, and be part of their communities as everyone else.
We've created California's first life-sharing platform to make this possible. By connecting individuals with disabilities to compatible supportive roommates, we're transforming lives—one match at a time.
Our Origin Story
How we pioneered the Supportive Roommate model
When Homies started in 2020, we saw a gap in California's disability services. Traditional options—group homes, family care, or institutional settings—didn't reflect what many adults with developmental disabilities actually wanted: independence, community, and genuine connection.
We created something new: a model where adults with disabilities live with compatible roommates who provide support in exchange for housing assistance and meaningful compensation. We needed a name that captured this relationship—not caregiver, not aide, but something that reflected the mutual benefit and genuine friendship at the heart of the arrangement.
We called them Supportive Roommates.
The term didn't exist before Homies. We coined it because no existing term captured what we were building: a relationship where both people support each other, share a home, and build a genuine friendship—while one receives Regional Center-funded services and the other earns meaningful income.
Today, as more organizations adopt life-sharing models across California, the Supportive Roommate approach we pioneered is becoming the gold standard for person-centered, community-based housing.
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Choice
We believe in person-centered care. Every individual has the right to choose where they live, who they live with, and how they live.
Connection
Meaningful relationships are at the heart of well-being. We facilitate connections that enrich lives on both sides of the match.
Community
Independence doesn't mean isolation. We help our clients become active members of their neighborhoods and communities.
Compassion
We approach every interaction with empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to support each person's unique journey.
Our Journey
From a small idea to California's leading life-sharing program
Homies is Founded
Homies was founded with a simple mission: to help people with disabilities live more independent, connected lives through life-sharing. We started with our first matches in Southern California.
Regional Center Partnerships
We established partnerships with Regional Centers across California, expanding our reach and ability to serve more families and individuals.
Growing Our Network
Homies expanded to serve multiple Regional Centers in California, making life-sharing accessible to more families throughout the state.
Official SLS Vendor Status
Homies became an official Supported Living Services (SLS) vendor, allowing us to provide even more comprehensive support to our community.
50+ Successful Matches
We celebrated over 50 successful life-sharing matches, with a 98% satisfaction rate from both clients and supportive roommates.
Continued Growth
Homies continues to grow and innovate, always putting the independence and wellbeing of our clients first.
Our Impact
Making a difference across California
Meet Our Team
Dedicated professionals passionate about changing lives
Sarah Chen
Founder & CEO
Passionate advocate for disability rights with 15+ years in social services.
Michael Rodriguez
Director of Operations
Former Regional Center coordinator bringing deep expertise in IDD services.
Emily Thompson
Matching Specialist
Expert in creating successful life-sharing matches based on compatibility.
Our Partners
Working together with California's Regional Centers
Join our mission
Whether you're looking for a supportive roommate or want to become one, we'd love to connect with you.