What does a supportive roommate do?

As a supportive roommate, you share your home with someone with a disability and provide daily support tailored to their needs. This might include help with cooking, transportation, social activities, and navigating daily life. Most importantly, you build a genuine friendship based on mutual respect.

How much can I earn as a supportive roommate?

Supportive roommates can earn up to $50,000 per year in tax-free income, plus additional allowances for housing and living expenses. The exact amount depends on the level of support needed by your roommate.

Do I need experience working with people with disabilities?

While experience is helpful, it's not required. We provide comprehensive training to all supportive roommates. What matters most is your compassion, patience, and genuine desire to support someone's independence.

Can I work another job while being a supportive roommate?

Yes! Many supportive roommates maintain careers, attend school, or have other commitments. Life-sharing is about integrating support into daily life, not providing 24/7 supervision. We'll work with you to find a match whose needs align with your schedule.

What if I rent my home?

You can still be a supportive roommate if you rent. You'll need written permission from your landlord, and your lease must allow for an additional occupant. Many landlords are supportive once they understand the program.

What support does Homies provide to roommates?

We provide initial training, ongoing education, 24/7 emergency support, regular check-ins, and a community of fellow supportive roommates. You're never alone in this journey—our team is always here to help.

Become a Supportive Roommate

Make a difference while earning meaningful income

Join the Homies program and help someone with a disability live independently. Share your home, build a friendship, and earn up to $50,000/year tax-free.

Supportive roommates are the heart of our life-sharing program. Your compassion and support can transform someone's life.

Apply Now What's Involved

Supportive roommate and client enjoying time together

The Role

What is a supportive roommate?

A supportive roommate is someone who shares their home with an adult with a disability, providing daily support while building a genuine friendship.

This isn't a traditional caregiving role—it's about living together, sharing experiences, and supporting someone's journey toward greater independence. You'll help with daily activities, provide companionship, and integrate your roommate into your life and community.

Share your home and daily life
Provide personalized support
Build a meaningful friendship
Help your roommate achieve their goals

Competitive compensation

Make a real difference while earning a meaningful income

Up to $50,000/year

Tax-free income for providing support in your own home

Housing Benefits

Receive compensation for shared living expenses, making housing more affordable

Flexible Schedule

Create a routine that works for both you and your roommate

Training & Support

Comprehensive training and 24/7 support from our team

Apply Now

Why become a supportive roommate?

Life-sharing offers rewards that go far beyond compensation

Meaningful Work

Make a real difference in someone's life while building a genuine friendship that enriches both of you.

Tax-Free Income

Earn up to $50,000 per year tax-free, plus additional housing and living allowances.

Flexible Lifestyle

Maintain your career, education, or other commitments while providing support in your daily life.

Training & Support

Receive comprehensive training and ongoing support from the Homies team throughout your journey.

Housing Benefits

Receive compensation for shared living expenses, making housing more affordable.

Community Impact

Be part of a movement that's changing how people with disabilities live and thrive in California.

Requirements

What you'll need to become a supportive roommate

Be at least 18 years old
Have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation
Pass comprehensive background checks (FBI, DOJ)
Complete required training and certification

Be willing to share a home with a roommate
Have patience, compassion, and good communication skills
Be committed to supporting someone's independence goals

Application process

Here's what to expect when you apply

Submit Your Application

Complete our online application with your background information, interests, and what you're looking for in a roommate match.

Initial Interview

Meet with our team to discuss your experience, motivations, and what life-sharing would look like in your home.

Background Check & Training

Complete required background checks and participate in our comprehensive training program on supporting people with disabilities.

Home Assessment

We'll visit your home to ensure it meets safety standards and is suitable for life-sharing arrangements.

Profile Creation & Matching

Create your profile and work with our matching team to find compatible potential roommates based on interests and needs.

Meet Your Match

Meet potential matches in person, take time to get to know each other, and decide if it's the right fit for both of you.

Hear from our roommates

Supportive roommates share their experiences

Verified Story

“Living with Eddie has completely changed my perspective on what matters in life. We cook together, explore the neighborhood, and celebrate each other's wins. It's not caregiving—it's friendship.”