Equality Commons Frequently Asked Questions
About Equality Commons
What is Equality Commons?
Equality Commons is an inclusive 54 unit affordable housing community designed for older adults aged 55 and over. The community provides safe, welcoming, and affordable apartment homes where residents can live authentically and age with dignity and respect.
Where is Equality Commons located?
Equality Commons is located at 25 Casco Street in the heart of downtown Portland, Maine — close to public transportation, shopping, healthcare facilities, and community resources.
Who developed and manages Equality Commons?
Equality Commons was developed by the Equality Community Center and is professionally managed by Portland Housing Authority.
Eligibility and Application Process
Who is eligible to live at Equality Commons?
To qualify, applicants must:
Be 55 years of age or older (at least one household member must meet this requirement).
Meet income eligibility limits established under the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program (see table)
Pass standard screening criteria for affordable housing (e.g., background, rental history, etc.).
| AMI % | 1 Person | 2 Person | 3 Person | 4 Person | 5 Person |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50% | $45,450 | $51,950 | $58,450 | $64,900 | $70,100 |
| 60% | $54,540 | $62,340 | $70,140 | $77,880 | $84,120 |
Is this housing only for LGBTQ+ residents?
No. Equality Commons is open to everyone who meets the age and income eligibility requirements. However, the community is intentionally designed to be inclusive and affirming of LGBTQ+ older adults and allies.
All residents are required to sign a non-discrimination pledge which will be strictly enforced.
How do I apply for housing?
Applications will be accepted from individuals who signed up on the Equality Commons Interest List beginning November 1st 2025, and applications will open to the general public beginning January 2, 2026.
Application period: November 1 – November 30, 2025 for those who signed up for the interest list.
Application period: January 2nd 2026 for the general public. Please check back closer to January for more details.
Interested applicants must complete and submit a full application with all required documentation by the deadline.
Applications received outside this period or from individuals not on the Interest List will not be accepted during November.
How is eligibility determined?
Once an application is received, management will verify income, assets, and household composition. Approved files will be reviewed for LIHTC eligibility and, if applicable, Project-Based Voucher (PBV) assistance.
A full list of what is considered “income” and what is considered an “Asset” can be found at the link. Part 5 (Section 8) Income and Asset Inclusions and Exclusions
What documentation will I need to apply?
Applicants will need to provide:
Proof of age and identity for all household members
Verification of income and assets
Prior housing or landlord references
Any additional documentation requested during processing
Rent, Income, and Assistance
How much is the rent?
Rent amounts are based on income limits set by the LIHTC program. Some apartments may also have Project-Based Vouchers (PBVs) that provide additional rent assistance. Rent levels will vary depending on unit type.
| AMI % | 0 Bedroom | 1 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50% | $1,136 | $1,217 | $1,461 |
| 60% | $1,363 | $1,461 | $1,753 |
Is rental assistance available?
Yes. Some apartments at Equality Commons are subsidized through Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), which cap rent at approximately 30% of the household’s adjusted gross income. All PBV units will be filled through our partnership organizations.
What if my income changes after I move in?
Income will be re-certified annually. If your income changes significantly, please notify management — this may affect your rent or eligibility for assistance.
What utilities will I need to pay?
All utilities will be included in your rent amount, including electric and water.
Amenities
What amenities does Equality Commons offer?
Equality Commons includes:
Elevator access and fully accessible units (19 out of 54 units will meet ADA standards)
Community room and gathering spaces
Outdoor seating areas
On-site laundry facilities
Secure bike storage
Café/ coffee shop
Secure building access
Resident support services and community programming
Located in the heart of downtown Portland with walking access to restaurants, social services, museums and the bus line
Are pets allowed?
Yes! Equality Commons is pet-friendly, with a limit of 2 pets per household. Pet deposit will be a refundable $250 deposit. Size/breed restrictions may apply. Service and emotional support animals are always welcome.
Is the building smoke-free?
Yes. Equality Commons is a 100% smoke-free community to ensure a healthy and comfortable living environment for all residents.
Community Culture and Support
What does “LGBTQ+ inclusive” mean in practice?
It means that Equality Commons embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values. Staff are trained in LGBTQ+ cultural competency, and community programming is designed to foster belonging, respect, and social connection among residents of all backgrounds and identities.
Are there on-site support services?
Yes. Equality Commons partners with local organizations serving older adults and the LGBTQ+ community to provide resident support, health and wellness resources, and social engagement opportunities.
Equality Commons is also located next door to the Equality Community Center which offers a safe space for inclusive community supportive services.
Can friends or family visit or stay overnight?
Yes. Guests are welcome to visit and may stay for short periods in accordance with the property’s guest policy.
Leasing and Move-In
When will move-ins begin?
Move-ins are expected to begin in summer of 2026. Approved applicants will be contacted to schedule unit showings and lease signings once their eligibility is confirmed.
How long is the lease term?
Leases are typically 12 months and renew annually, pending continued eligibility.
More information?
Please contact Portland Housing Authority at:
📞 207-773-4753
📧 kharmon@porthouse.org
🏢 www.porthouse.org or www.eccmaine.org
