Brooklyn Council Member Dr. Mathieu Eugene on Nov. 17 joined Borough President Eric Adams, Department of Finance Assistant Commissioner Pierre DeJean, community advocates and elderly residents at Brooklyn Public Library in promoting enrollment in Rent Freeze NYC.
Eugene, who represents the 40th Council District in Brooklyn, said the program, which allows eligible residents and the disabled to stay in affordable housing, has been instrumental in helping tenants reduce their cost of living while remaining in safe and familiar living environments.
The Rent Freeze Program, which includes the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) Program and the Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) Program, helps residents remain in their homes on a long-term basis.
Under the program, a property tax credit covers the difference between the actual rent amount and what the tenant is responsible for paying at the frozen rate, according to Eugene.
“When we talk about our seniors, we’re talking about people who have paid their dues, people who have done everything for me, and for all of us to enjoy the privileges that we are enjoying now,” he said.
“Now, it is our time to protect them and make sure they have the resources they need to have a better life.”
Eugene said while Rent Freeze NYC has proven value to those who qualify, “there are still many eligible residents who are unaware of its benefits.”
As Brooklyn resident and SCRIE recipient, Suzanne Douglas said: “It’s about educating people so they’ll know. If I wasn’t told I wouldn’t have known either.”
Eugene said the program provides “a valuable resource for elderly residents and the disabled to stay in familiar living environments close to their friends and family.”
