Source: Andrew Lichtenstein / Getty
The first-ever LGBTQ+ friendly affordable housing development for seniors will be coming to the Bronx in mid-May. Crotona Senior Residences will serve very-low income residents 62 and older.
According to Affordable Housing Finance, the initiative is being brought to the borough by SAGE USA, the nation’s largest organization dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ seniors, and HELP USA, which is dedicated to serving special-needs populations. It is the second development of its kind in New York City, with the first located in Brooklyn.
According to SAGE USA, sexual orientation and gender identity are protected classes in fair housing laws in only 21 states, Washington D.C., and just a few local jurisdictions. Houses like these can help make the rest of an elderly LGBTQ+ person’s life much safer and happier.
“Finding welcoming housing is one of the most difficult challenges faced by our LGBT elders,” SAGE CEO Michael Adams told Affordable Housing Finance. “Crotona Senior Residences will provide crucial housing and supportive services to the many older LGBT New Yorkers who are in desperate need of an affordable place to live.”
Any individual who is age- or income-qualified can apply to live in the development, which is slated to open in Fall 2019. Of the 84 studio and one-bedroom units, 26 will be set aside for seniors who have experienced homelessness. The on-site SAGE Center will also offer health and cultural programs, meals, and a computer center for residents and community members. Supportive services will also be given to formerly homeless residents.
“For 30 years, we’ve worked tirelessly to serve communities who are under-resourced and underserved,” said HELP USA president and CEO Tom Hameline. “We are so proud to stand with SAGE and out partners at the state and city levels, as allies of New York’s LGBT population. A stable home and a new supportive community can make all the difference, and we’re happy to provide both with this new development.”
