Despite major advancements in LGBTQ+ rights, LGBTQ+ elders still face significantly higher rates of housing discrimination than their non-LGBTQ+ counterparts.

According to an Equal Rights Center study, nearly half of older same-sex couples seeking elder housing are either outright denied due to bias, or are made to feel unwelcome based on their identity.

The result? Discrimination puts LGBTQ+ elders at greater risk for chronic health problems, social isolation, poverty and premature mortality.

That’s why the SAGE started the National LGBTQ+ Housing Initiative (NHI): to make safe, affordable and LGBTQ+-affirming housing easier to find for those who need it.

SAGE’s National LGBTQ+ Elder Housing Initiative can support a builder’s efforts with strategies and guidance for:

  • Community engagement with LGBTQ+ community-based organizations to understand how to bring this project to life and to learn more about best practices.
  • Partnership building in your community, including elected officials, community boards, community residents, community organizations and religious or social institutions.
  • Site acquisition supported by research, community feedback sessions, and planning processes for things like building rehab.
  • Construction & intentional design for considerations like accessibility and age-friendly design in the physical infrastructure of each building.
  • Securing capital through creative fundraising campaigns focused on government sources, such as the New York City Council, and on private foundations.
  • Establishing local buy-in to gain trust from community members of the desired development neighborhood.

Read the full article about affordable housing for LGBTQ elderly at Smart Cities Dive.