Low-Income Apartment Complex for LGBT Seniors Opens in Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s gayborhood is now home to one of only 3 housing developments in the country specifically for LGBT seniors.

John C. Anderson apartments, a new housing development specifically for low-income LGBT seniors, officially opened its doors late last month in the heart of Philadelphia’s gayborhood, reports CBS Philly.

The apartment complex is the first of its kind for the city of Philadelphia, Penn. and only the third such facility in the entire country.

“Being an LGBT friendly community, the largest development of its kind in the United States of America clearly shows Philadelphia as leading the way on human rights and LGBT rights issues,” Mayor Michael Nutter said of the $19.5 million development, which was spearheaded by LGBT activist Mark Segal.

“If we don’t take care of our LGBT seniors, we’re not taking care of our community,” says Segal, who believes the housing development should be a national model, “and that’s what real community is about.”

There’s already a waiting list for the 56 unit complex, which features one bedroom apartments that are specifically equipped with the safety of seniors in mind.

“The place is so beautiful and the building is welcoming, which is very nice,” says resident Bill Lowden, “and I can’t wait for spring to arrive, when the courtyard is in bloom.”