An amazing landlord from Brooklyn, Mario Salerno, waived the rent fees for all of his residents throughout his 80 apartments when the pandemic started.
He shared the news with his tenants by placing a notice on the front doors of all their buildings.
It said that the rents for April 2020 were forgiven.
The 59-year-old who owns around 80 apartments with a total of 200 tenants throughout Greenpoint and Williamsburg explained that he decided to waive the fees after he heard of multiple tenants struggling to make ends meet.
NYC Landlord Shows Compassion in Times of Need
Salerno explained that he wanted everybody to stay healthy.
Born in Williamsburg on Metropolitan Avenue, he inherited a gas station from his dad and he’s well known in his community.
He wanted people to not have to worry about rent, but put food on their tables. He said that they shouldn’t worry about paying him, but worry about their families and neighbors.
One of his tenants, Kaitlyn Guteski, said that she’s been out of work since her hair salon was closed. And, she didn’t know how to come up with money for rent.
Thanks to Salerno, she didn’t have to. She describes him as a wonderful man-a true Superman.
Throughout the years, Salerno bought several buildings mostly in Williamsburg. He explains that his buildings take the extra precautions for protection from the virus.
His team is cleaning and sterilizing every building.
He’s hopeful that everyone in NYC will work together and get through the pandemic. Caring for each other is pivotal, but also helping others if you’re fortunate to still have a job, Salerno emphasized.
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