Senior New Yorkers are the heart and history of this city — longtime neighbors, storytellers, and community builders who’ve shaped every block and borough with decades of memories. Now, a new affordable housing opportunity in the heart of Brooklyn is giving back to those who’ve given so much, offering thoughtfully designed homes for seniors — with rent starting as low as $0.
The Gail P. Duke Senior Residence, located at 350 Livonia Avenue in Brownsville, is now accepting applications for 47 newly constructed apartments.
This $143 million development is designed to be a sustainable, supportive community. As NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Commissioner Adolfo Carrión Jr. stated during the 2024 groundbreaking:
The Gail P. Duke Senior Residence is more than just housing—it’s a lifeline for older New Yorkers on fixed incomes. It will provide not only affordable, accessible homes but also a community where our older adults can thrive.
🏡 Inside The Units
The residence consists of 47 affordable units, including 24 studios and 23 one-bedroom apartments. Designed by Magnusson Architecture and Planning, the building meets “Passive House” standards, meaning it is incredibly energy-efficient.
- Modern Comforts: Units feature energy-efficient appliances, air conditioning, and free secure in-unit Wi-Fi.
- Sustainability: The all-electric building utilizes heat pump water heaters and solar panels, ensuring a smaller carbon footprint and lower utility strain.
- Thoughtful Design: An eighth-floor laundry room offers views of the NYC skyline, while an outdoor landscaped terrace provides a restorative walking path for residents.
❤️ Accessibility
The residence is a 100% “Senior/Elderly” set-aside, meaning the head of household must be at least 62 years old. The building is fully accessible with elevator service and an accessible entrance.
- Dedicated Set-Asides: 5% of units are reserved for residents with mobility impairments, and 2% are set aside for those with vision or hearing impairments.
- On-Site Support: A 10,000-square-foot Older Adult Center on the ground floor, operated by Catholic Charities Neighborhood Services, will provide daily hot meals, fitness classes, and case management.
- Safety: The building features a 24-hour attended lobby, security guards, and security cameras.
✅ Qualifications For 0$ Rent
While the lottery lists an income range, the financial structure of this building is unique. Because the project is supported by Project-Based Vouchers from NYCHA, eligible tenants will generally pay 30% of their adjusted gross income toward rent. If a household has no income, it is possible for the rent portion to be $0, provided the applicant qualifies for Section 8 or a similar subsidy.
📋 Eligibility And Income
💻 How To Apply
The deadline to apply is April 24th, 2026. There are two ways to submit your application:
- Online: Visit the NYC Housing Connect website to create a profile and apply electronically.
- By Mail: Send a self-addressed envelope to: Gail P. Duke Senior Residence c/o POP Management Corp 191 Joralemon Street, 8th Floor Brooklyn, NY 11201
This opportunity is offering sweet new chapter waiting to be written right here in Brooklyn. To learn more about it, see NYC Housing Connect’s official website.