Queens Tribune

Younger New Yorkers have responded to New York Foundation for Senior Citizens’ expanded Home Sharing Program, a unique affordable housing option and free matching service, which has recently allowed younger “hosts” under the age of 60 to share their homes with older “guests.”

In the past, hosts were required to be 60 and over and adult guests 18 and over. Thirteen younger hosts with extra bedrooms in their homes are ready to be matched with “guests” over the age of 60; one match has already been made.

“Now that we are welcoming the participation of younger New Yorkers as hosts, we find that many do indeed want to share their homes with independent, self-sufficient older persons who will contribute toward household expenses and also provide social benefits,” says Linda Hoffman, president of New York Foundation for Senior Citizens.

In addition to the financial benefit of shared living, some potential younger hosts express a desire to help seniors who need affordable housing as a reason for applying for Home Sharing.

“There are people in need and I want to help,” Mary Croney, a 54-year-old retired nurse’s aide who resides in Far Rockaway with her husband, said.

Another potential host, Anita Lipscomb, a 45-year-old divorced teacher, who owns her own home in Rosedale is about to become an empty nester. Her daughter will leave for college soon and her son is in the military.

“Besides looking forward to the companionship of an older guest, I believe there are older people who need affordable, safe homes. It’s a humanitarian issue with me,” she said.

For more information about New York Foundation for Senior Citizens’ free Home Sharing service, call (212) 962-7559 or e-mail aleven@nyfscltcop.org. Also visit www.nyfc.org.