Our story begins in the 1970's when Mennonite Central Committee British Columbia (MCC BC) was approached by a parent-initiated organization called "The Samaritan Society for Comfort and Cheer." This organization asked for help to establish homes for their sons and daughters who lived with a disability. MCC BC agreed to help and opened its first two group homes in 1974. The focus was to nurture people toward greater independence and interdependence in a supportive Christian environment.

The 80's brought an invitation from the Province of British Columbia to assist with the de-institutionalization of its provincial facilities, to accommodate individuals with a disability. During this decade, another change occurred when the house-parent model switched to a "come and go" staffing model. These two paradigm shifts resulted in significant growth, providing more service opportunities to more residents and clients.

Our vision continued to grow and our ministry thrived, resulting in a decision made in 1992 to establish a separate legal entity called Mennonite Central Committee Supportive Care Services (MCC SCS). During the 90's, we also began supporting individuals who have a diagnosed mental illness and those who live with an acquired brain injury. We also implemented pre-employment and work readiness programs for individuals living with a mental illness. We exppanded geographically as well, meeting various needs of those living in the North Vancouver Island and Okanagan regions of British Columbia.

As we entered the 21st century, other avenues of service were pursued and added to our program portfolio. We expanded our borders beyond British Columbia to include a new partnership with the Florence Centre, a community development organization in the Ukraine. We began supporting individuals living with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and providing care for people who are seniors.

In 2007, another milestone was achieved when MCC SCS officially changed its name to Communitas Supportive Care Society. Communitas, a Latin noun, is rich in meaning and significance. Its meaning includes an understanding of "a community where all people are equal." While our name has changed, our philosophy and culture of care, service, support and accountability remain the same.

For over 35 years, we have learned so much and fostered wonderful relationships with the people and communities we serve. In 2010, we partnered with Doug and Andrea Froese in the development of Matthew's House, a respite home for children with significant medical challenges, which is part of the Campus of Care project being built adjacent to the Abbotsford Hospital. We continue to look for new and creative ways to address the needs of seniors and assist people with disabilities and their families.