Barry Hersko is a leader in real estate but his greatest work is what he does for the homeless.
“My partnership with EARP started in 1988,” explained Barry Hersko, property developer and real estate expert. “Especially during the holidays, it’s vital to give back to those in need.”
Since childhood, Barry has always been passionate about serving those less fortunate, which is why partnering with EARP was a logical choice as Barry Hersko became a household name in real estate. The EARP or Emergency Assistance Rental Program began in the late eighties as a response to the growing homeless epidemic in New York, and Barry Hersko knew he had to do something about it.
“To know that I could make a difference by renting out more affordable apartments to those in need was an easy decision,” explained Barry Hersko. “I had to step up and help.”
The Emergency Assistance Rental Program started off small and continued to grow, eventually helping thousands in New York find shelter and begin to rebuild their lives. Rental assistance programs help New Yorkers experiencing homelessness move out of shelters and into stable housing, for many a first-time experience that will change their lives forever. Barry Hersko and many others like him have helped hundreds of thousands of people get the confidence to rebuild their lives, and often are able to find a permanent home. In the eighties, Barry Hersko was one of the first landlords to open his buildings to those in need, starting a trend that has carried on to this very day. As New York City continues to turn the tide on homelessness, it’s in large part due to partners like Barry Hersko to keep the cause going.
The ultimate goal of programs like the one Barry Hersko supports is to provide households with financial assistance in a progressive manner. This type of progressive engagement refers to a strategy of providing small amounts of assistance to help everyone entering into the homeless system. For some, even the smallest amount of assistance is enough to stabilize, but sometimes much more assistance can be offered to those who require it.
Through constant support with the EARP and other organizations like it, Barry Hers continues to give back to those in New York who need it most.
