Finding affordable housing in New York City can be a daunting task due to skyrocketing rents, and it becomes even more challenging as one ages.

There’s a unique program that helps connect people in need of affordable housing with those who have extra spaces in their homes called the New York Foundation for Senior Citizens Home Sharing program.

“I love New York and I love where I live,” Edna Magee, program host, said.

What You Need To Know

  • The home sharing program has matched people for more than 40 years

  • Adults ages 18 or older are eligible, but at least one person in every match must be 60 or older

  • A background check is required for all applicants

Edna Magee has lived in her Clinton Hill apartment since the 1964, and while Magee said she’s comfortable in her apartment she admits, at 82 years-old, she can get lonely.

“I have a friend in Georgia. She said, ‘You’re there by yourself. You shouldn’t be alone,’” Magee said.

Her friend recommended the program which pairs hosts who have extra space in their homes with compatible guests.

Magee found her match in Kim Parker-Mares.

“With Kim, it has been wonderful, wonderful. She was a Godsend,” Magee said.

Parker-Mares is a 66-year-old graduate student who moved to the city from New Hampshire in August.

“Edna was so great on the phone, and it kind of worked out perfect,” Parker-Mares said.

“We go to the theatre together. We go to lunch and dinner together,” Magee said.

The Home Sharing Program has matched people for over 40 years.

The nonprofit’s president said because of inflation and rental prices increasing, she’s seeing more interest in the program.

After low participation due to concerns of spreading COVID-19, the organization said this year it’s on track to return to the number of annual matches posted before the pandemic, about 50.

“It’s really helped their lives to be a lot happier and healthier and more dignified,” Hoffman said.

Adults ages 18 or older are eligible, but at least one person in every match must be 60 or older.