So the whole "affordable housing" thing becomes a sort of fiscal cliff: you make a dollar over this amount, and suddenly you lose all the benefits.
Of course it makes sense to help out the less fortunate more than someone who makes more, but maybe there are easier ways.
An example of what some other places do: France offers housing subsidies where the only restrictions are that you're "for real" renting the place (not living at a relative's house). Then it's only a function of your income and age (and capped at something like 80% of your total rent)
Creating housing where only the poor can live is not equal protection under the law.
I like the idea of vouchers, a basic income, and slow slope / no income guidelines.
On the topic of food, I can legally shop for food where the poor shop. Around here it is Aldi. If Aldi ever said, "due to federal subsidies and local laws we can't allow you to shop here because of your income" then I would have a problem.
My county social services are the best I've seen so far. I can get some types of medical care for free and have access to the food pantry. They do ask for income, but don't deny free access based on your answers. It is the closest social programs I've seen that align with my ideology of equal access for all.
If you are poor, here is your free house. If you make the median income, you are forced to spend money exactly like everyone else. Lawmakers only care about affordable housing for the poor, no one cares about providing modest housing for the modest earner.