LIVING IN NYC PROJECTS FOR $25 A MONTH

[@sincerelylatoshamonique8781]

I grew up in one of the worst projects in NYC in the late 80's and 90's..Pink Houses in East New York Brooklyn. With the things I saw growing up, I could have been influenced by my environment easily. I was not amazed by negativity. Today, I have a MBA degree, I write Hood books, and I'm a Notary Public in NYC..Yes, a little girl from the projects. Thanks for not showcasing the projects in a despicable way ⚘️

[@ulovetashi]

Back in the days, in the early 2000’s nobody wanted to be near there. It was a rough time in NYC especially in public housing. I remember my mom telling me I couldn’t hang out over there lol. I had a friend that lived there and then her family moved near broadway junction because it was rough there but despite the bad, there was some great people there that actually had careers and stayed out of trouble. I think people hear the term “the projects” and just assume people are lazy or bad, but that’s not the truth.

[@sincerelylatoshamonique8781]

@@ulovetashi Yes...that is very true..People judge others who were raised in the projects. Technically, it's just affordable housing, but the people committing crimes, and indulging in illegal activities, plus the kids with no guidance or parental supervision is what makes the neighborhood/projects bad.

[@BlackDiamond-rj1ov]

🌹

[@carlmcpherson5980]

Fire 🔥

[@meryljohnston2499]

Shorts rabbitt hole!

[@rosenaandre7147]

Wow, I can definitely relate. My dad brought us here from Haiti. He renovated everything. We lived in NYC project for ten years. Everything looks amazing. My dad even changed the kitchen cabinets We came a long way. Now, all of us now have our own house. I even became a landlord myself. Where you come from doesn't have to define who you become.

[@mariajosesaizlopez3574]

That’s because you appreciate what you have !

[@hmm-zoolol]

Exactly. Your parents had goals and they worked hard for their goals.😊😊

[@Thrivinbwoy]

Y’all are fortunate.

[@DeeK.M]

AMEN🙏🏽

[@abigailpidazo9704]

“Perception is power.” Usually, I’m someone who gets caught up in the shorts but I have no regret taking the time to watch this. So much wisdom and learning material. Thank you for this 🙏🏼

[@erikakafure4193]

Agreed^ inspirational

[@Refresh636]

You sound so dumb? “No regrets” watching a video instead of a dopamine scroll addicts short

[@elvisnunez9226]

I truly agree with that 👍 He was very informative and kept me glued to my phone. Smart kid indeed and always never judge someone just because of where they live, we are all equal at the end of the day no matter where you from, stay blessed to all 🙏

[@cathygreen2485]

it's a good thing to remember as you go through life

[@antjones8036]

Me To Bro 💪🏿🙏🏿

[@CavScoutCookies]

I love this! My mother raised me and my brother in government housing while we were young, she worked like a dog. She always had a talent for for interior designing she would help people with money fix up there homes. Then she met my step-father he paid for her real estate school she made her first million in less than two years! God is good! Now now she just fixes her beach houses up and gives to people that needs it!

[@delovelyday430]

🙌🏾🌿

[@Linda-xk6ed]

@FrankWhite Your mom is a rock star. God Bless her.

[@d0ttiej]

Give you mom a hug for me! And to enjoy her beach life she deserves it.

[@216goldgoddess5]

Im so happy for her 😊 she was blessed

[@ProPandaPlays]

Loan lolo,

[@kekelah7857]

My grandma lived in the projects and like she said all you need is soap, water, and bleach to keep the house clean. She made her own curtains and tablecloths. And red was her favorite color. So she customized her apt in was always nice and comfortable.

[@TravelTechie415]

Me too. what he said on 1:22 is very true. People also expect only bad people grow up in the projects, but most do not get in trouble with the law, just honest hard working people

[@1jackvalley580]

Proud of this young man, he's been raised so well by his Mama ❤️🌠

[@Eeter26]

Why not his dad 🤨

[@calvingarcia3540]

Kudos to Caleb for representing the Projects in a positive way. I was always afraid that he would take it as an opportunity to clown the low standard, but he didn't and that means a lot. Something that resonated with me was coming from the projects can be your excuse or it can be your why. Coming from the projects its my why. I feel incredibly privileged to have grown up in Lower Manhattan around a diverse set of people.

[@quadaar1017]

RESPECT 🙌

[@sumgr8babe]

I agree. I live on the LES but I was born and raised in Queensbridge Projects. I wouldn’t have wanted to grow up anywhere else. I love my hood.

[@AnonymousGameWarden]

Projects living wayyyyy too boujee

[@juanshaftpatel7488]

the projects suck... too many poors

[@juanshaftpatel7488]

@@sumgr8babe so youre still inthe projects? thats sad

[@brivonn5222]

What a humble intelligent man. His perspective of life is so positive snd uplifting and real. We need more of that. He could definitely become the next community leader and organizer.

[@Imsupersandy]

Hey! that would be awesome! I am always thinking about to best serve my community

[@sadiesage7454]

@Super Sandy, keep up the good work! May you name this project? Also, how’s the school district?

[@ProPandaPlays]

Lolol clown

[@AaMmack]

“Turning what you have into what you need.” Wise words to live by💪

[@b.freeman2118]

🔓✅

[@rosalinaayala5963]

I worked for NYCHA and what struck me was how some tenants had apartments that looked like something out of a magazine while others lived like cavemen.

[@richardbrown7441]

For bugs get demon wp

[@KuriK_photography]

This was definitely an insightful and thought provoking episode. I appreciated seeing the apartment and hearing what his family has been through. It would be great to see more ones like this in the future.

[@elisakatarina1435]

Agree!

[@29outlaw]

He hit the nail on the head at 4:47 when he said "complete homes" is the key and kudos to him for saying it. Lots of folks want to blame their plight on other factors and try to ignore the importance of home and family.

[@nickvas95]

This dude is dope. I like episodes like this where someone is actually speaking truth & not just showing off their $50,000/month apartment. Both have their place. But this was a nice change up. Thanks Caleb

[@TheresaPowers]

you're right. he is a dope.

[@juanshaftpatel7488]

being poor is dope? thats sad

[@nicholaspatti1526]

@@juanshaftpatel7488 😂😅🤣 There not poor..There living off of you am I. ! 😂🤣😅 Only black lives matter in New York City. Mayor Eric empty suit Adams voters

[@juanshaftpatel7488]

@@nicholaspatti1526 we need slaves... who is gonna clean the gutters

[@nicholaspatti1526]

@@juanshaftpatel7488 that's extremely a racial.. comment

[@idjilju2835]

This strong warms my heart. His mama raised him right and he has a wonderful perception

[@ktkt9982]

To the young man who's apartment this is: Thank you for showing us your apartment and telling us a bit about your life. The fact that you still have you teddy bears lifted my spirits no. end. Wishing you all the best!

[@heatherjohnson5612]

This guy is my favorite apartment tour! Caleb I love how absolutely you are so real, nonjudgmental and this was the absolute coolest guy ever. Loved his story. Love his family love and family bond. Happy birthday!

[@sha_na2902]

Very profound and moving episode! This young man is on his way, he dropped so many gems on the power of the mind. "That safety net becomes a comfort net and they stay there", people don't see it as an opportunity!

[@markguim]

love this video. some wise words shared here "It can either be your excuse or it can be your why" "That safety net becomes a comfort net and they stay there" “Turning what you have into what you need.”

[@donniemoder1466]

Great idea to visit NYCHA housing because so many New Yorkers live there. The apartments are decent sizes for NYC. The grounds can be decent/green. You might have a decent basketball court. The problem is upkeep, NYCHA does not have the resources, when something gets broken, it is not necessarily going to repaired. If the heating in the building breaks down. If something happens to the gas lines. You then got major problems. If you have some bad neighbors with mental problems, then it is hard to deal with. You might not have a good public school nearby. Elevators are a big issue, they break down or some bad tenants mess with them.

[@Charlie-gv3zt]

Facts!

[@younglivingmargo]

I think this has been your best video yet. This young man you interviewed was such a pleasure to meet. He is years beyond his age, full of wisdom and depth of character. What a wonderful young adult! He's mumma must be so proud. Hats off to her, she did a fantastic job raising this fine young man

[@ProPandaPlays]

Ewww lol

[@ProPandaPlays]

Lolol

[@hazexo1131]

@@ProPandaPlays give ur mom her phone back, 7 yr old kid

[@ProPandaPlays]

@@hazexo1131 im 32 you crybaby LOL

[@ProPandaPlays]

@@hazexo1131 what did i even say to trigger you this bad lol crying like this

[@PamelaH_HappyVibes]

This young man is so humble and is finding his joy!

[@thehouseofcm]

I love his Twin Peaks 💕 T👕👀. He is humble and has a positive outlook. Having the teddy 🧸 and his sister's art work shows an innocence. Family is important to Latinos.

[@DarrenKriz]

"It can either be your excuse or it can be your why" the right mindset will truly get you through any situation in life

[@SteakFromJakeFarm777]

wow, the best episode yet! appropriate levels of respect and sincerity combined with fun, levity and inspiration. amazing work! and Sandy is an inspiring young man.

[@sheshe18]

I love his positivity!

[@helenawarsinnak]

I have much RESPECT for this young man!! He is very intelligent, well spoken, positive etc...you can tell that he wants more in life and wants to get to t

[@priscilla5321]

Would love to see more videos like this one! That young man is great and his apartment has so much history and character.

[@mybby1966]

What a smart young man! I know he was raised by a good Mom! Find the good in every situation and you will be a better happier person.

[@TechnicJunglist]

He's wearing a Twin Peaks shirt. The icing on the cake for me. Keep that love and happy birthday. ♒️

[@EnnuiMachine]

This was such a great episode. Thanks Caleb for showing all kinds of New York and not just $30,000 couches. This channel just gets better and better. ✌️

[@journalologyandcoofficial]

This is one of the things I love about your channel Caleb, you deliver such a variety of content and earnest way of communicating with each person you meet. You have a great way of conversing with people and sharing their stories. You're very special.♥️ #DontEVERForgetIt

[@pauletterobinson1299]

I lived at Amsterdam houses for 8 years back in the 50s and moved to south queens nyc. I loved living at Amsterdam houses. Everybody treated each other like family and the grownups always kept an eye on other people kids that were outside playing. If they didn't see you anywhere they will tell your parents! That's was a good thing!

[@P.Kenney]

I lived in Dyckman Houses from 1955-1966! It was nice back in the day! Kareem lived there then and went to my elementary school! Then he went to Power Memorial As a freshman. myy brother a sophomore, both on 🏀 team!

[@HatianHurricane]

I have been in plenty project apartments that were beautifully done up! You start to question if you are really in the projects. It's up to the individual. You can wait for NYCHA to improve your individual apartment or you can do it yourself. It's not the projects that are the problem, it's the people!

[@timelessadventurer]

This guy was awesome! A lot of people who come to the U.S. from other countries always seem to be so appreciative of where they live. Like my grandma from Poland and mother in law from Mexico. I wish Americans would appreciate how good they have it compared to some other countries but it’s hard when you don’t have that experience from a different way of life. Like my grandma left Poland during WWII to get to freedom and she loved the USA.

[@tammya5403]

I really love how he perceives gentrification, because as a black person myself, I always felt like I wasn’t allowed to say, “I actually like gentrification because it works for me.” I’m so grateful to have grown up with many different ethnicities and cultures and gentrification allowed that to happen for me.

[@xenostim]

That surprised me because I haven't really heard this perspective before. Doesn't it raise the price of living, especially rent?

[@tammya5403]

​@@xenostim It definitely does, however, my mother lives in a rent stabilized apartment so market prices going up had no effect on us. I made the decision to move out and was still able to find affordable rent under $800 living with roommates. I really think it's all about perspective. Gentrification isn't an excuse I use for my price of living. I just make more money lol

[@xenostim]

@@tammya5403 heck ya, make that bread!

[@amateurastronomer9752]

I don’t live in NYC but I always felt like gentrification brought people, money and business and therefore opportunity into poor neighborhoods. I think a lot of the folks that speak only against gentrification have never lived in a poor neighborhood

[@tammya5403]

@@amateurastronomer9752 I absolutely agree.

[@zyeshaphillips5307]

I’m still in the projects working on getting out, he spoke straight facts on being comfortable and everything else he said. 🙏🏾 4 myself and manifesting better for my future

[@TaylorBell]

Damn he has an incredibly impressive and inspiring perspective. Loved this 💪🏼

[@ashtonausbey]

Brought me to tears. A gem of a guy with such powerful gratitude and insight, wishing him nothing but the best

[@briarrose5208]

What a beautiful apartment! Most US citizens have no idea how grateful immigrants are when they achieve their dream of a better life. This young man has wisdom beyond his years. He could School these anti-immigration folks if they would ever listen. I wish him all the best.

[@NileGoddess]

If not the indigenous Americans.US citizens are immigrants too.Their ancestors immigrated from Europe and Middle East .

[@mickyosully4592]

@@NileGoddess I think you’re mentally ill

[@justsaying9604]

Key word is legal. Most do not cross our borders legally. There is a big difference in being legal and illegal.

[@peachycalmable]

Immigrants drain government assistance programs

[@dobermandogmom]

What a darling young man. I only wish the best for him and may all his dreams come true.

[@sammuis01]

What a smart, respectful, fine young man... His mother did a great job raising him. All the best to you, we can all learn from your words of wisdom!

[@Rebeccaac]

This young man is incredibly wise and spiritually evolved. This was an interesting video to see since also because I’m used to NYCHA housing shown on the local news as in disrepair and squalor and it’s great to see he has good quality of life with this home environment.

[@shonnyyyworlddd5621]

He’s so wholesome and positive I hope he goes far in life 🤍

[@garrickclau]

By far, your best video. So much depth, introspection, Caleb you need to make more content like this. Well done.

[@Petruskinhap972]

I’m a visiting nurse and most of my patients are in housing projects. I’ve seen in it all and never judge. I’m always amazed though by how much potential these apartments have. They are so big and some are located in fully gentrified neighborhoods. Like this young man, some of my patients have made their apartments into safe heavens. Spotless, smelling like Pinesol, bright and airy. Modest, but clean and welcoming. Of course there are also those who say they have roaches, rats, drugs falling from the sky, and are victims of the system, so why bother. They only see the urine in the elevators, trash and negatives, completely missing the opportunity all together to use this low income apartment as a stepping stone to something so much greater. And this negative dialogue is a cycle that repeats itself generation after generation. It really makes me sad. It’s not the environment. It’s mental illness, bad lifestyle choices and broken families that make all the difference. The resources are out there and are the same for everyone. It’s just that some use and others don’t.

[@fredhammer6413]

You say that “you never judge”. Why would you say that? Of course you judge, that’s how people survive their surroundings.

[@FaithandNova]

@@fredhammer6413 so true we all judge even if it's a positive judgement

[@Petruskinhap972]

@@fredhammer6413 no, I don’t judge because it’s not my place. I’m not there to check out your decor. I could really care less. An observation is different from judgment . Judgment would be “ew your house is dirty, what is wrong with you.” versus assessing the situation, putting my backpack in a garbage bag to protect from bugs and moving on to do my job. People are people. That’s what I’ve learned from being a nurse for 15 years. Pain and suffering are exactly the same for everyone. We don’t care how you look, where you live, how rich or poor you are. We can make an assessment and move right along. We are there to do our job and go home to our families.

[@fredhammer6413]

@@Petruskinhap972 ; you state “people are people”. That’s implying that all people are the same and no one person is better or worst than any other person, you know, “we can’t judge”. So following that logic you would assume that an Eagle Scout that has devoted most of his life to education, self improvement and community service is no better or worst than a homicidal pedophile who is a scourge on society. Would you consider your line of thinking as socialist or Marxist?

[@Petruskinhap972]

@@fredhammer6413 Yup, in medicine they are all the same. We don’t hold care because of someone’s past or wrong doings. We are not judges, law enforcement, or corrections. I can have a personal opinion about a patient but will still treat them like any of my other patients because that’s my JOB. If you’re a very judgmental or highly sensitive person you should not be in healthcare.

[@Juli-ge4yp]

Fantastic episode. This kid is going places. Thank you for sharing his story with us

[@mfar3016]

This guy is exceptional in his attitude & drive. He could’ve easily turned to hatred of the white kid’s singing in his school & summer camp, but instead he made a conscious effort to see life from a different viewpoint. That apartment is gigantic! I’m glad he takes pride in his living space & that speaks volumes about how he was raised.

[@anderra88]

I remember this guy from the 1st time you showed his apartment. The thing that stood out was his really positive attitude and willingness to take in the stray cats. He still maintains that positive attitude.

[@jenfira]

By far one of the best videos. I loved this guy's story. Thank you for sharing it with us! Great job!

[@dailysmiles]

Yooo respect! I’ve always been really into myrmecology myself but like you no one would expect it. I have started queen colonies with dozens of ants. Really fun to watch them start the colony. You might want to do a tube change though. That mold starting in the cotton can kill them. Thanks for sharing your optimistic outlook on where you live. That’s an amazing deal myself and many people I know would be VERY thankful to get these days. The greedy rich are charging way too much for rent.

[@abranchie102]

I appreciate this video because provides a different outlook on the “projects”, having been raised in the Bushwhack Hylan during the 60’s when it was first built to the mid 70’s, I saw the change from beautiful to not so much. My parents, as well as most of the parents of my friends during that time, were happy to live there, took care of their homes and we were able to run up and down the stairwells to visit our friends, leave our doors unlocked, and all of that good stuff, until the 70’s….Vietnam War….drugs…and all that came with it, helped in destroying what we all called home. Now when it comes to gentrification…that’s all about economics, the haves, the have nots and the good and bad effects that come in tow. That would better be left for another discussion. Thanks again.

[@Imsupersandy]

I love this. Thank you for sharing this insight. Id love to do a podcast interview with you if you are ever in NYC.

[@KC-ed1dj]

Yeah, those drugs that came into low income neighborhoods destroying families and the community were a planned event. The drugs were brought in by the powers that be for a reason.

[@dorothytaylor7369]

Wow, bushwick projects. I was raised there as well !!!memories , block parties in the back of 370 & 140 moore street, those were the days, I’m not certain who you are, I pray all is well. My take was just because you live in the projects, , you don’t have to live the project lifestyle, it all depends on your mindset. Trust & believe living there I’ve seen it all !!Remember the community center😀

[@Wrekkshoppe]

There's actually NOTHING GOOD about gentrification. Gentrification happens when the economy gets so bad that those in higher socioeconomic classes can no longer reasonably afford to live in the areas they're used to. They then wind up moving to areas of those in much lower socioeconomic classes because they're far more affordable. Gradually over time, more and more people from that higher class move to that poorer neighborhood, raise the property values of that area, changing the culture, and eventually displacing those original much poorer residents because they can no longer afford the rents. Then what happens is that once poor affneighborhood thfen becomes unaffordable to those in higher socioeconomic classes, and so the repeats itself, over and over and over, and over. Unfortunately, in the United States, the socioeconomic status of it's citizens directly correlates with race.

[@Wrekkshoppe]

There's actually NOTHING GOOD about gentrification. Gentrification happens when the economy gets so bad that those in higher socioeconomic classes can no longer reasonably afford to live in the areas they're used to. They then wind up moving to areas of those in much lower socioeconomic classes because they're far more affordable. Gradually over time, more and more people from that higher class move to that poorer neighborhood, raise the property values of that area, changing the culture, and eventually displacing those original much poorer residents because they can no longer afford the rents. Then what happens is that once poor affneighborhood thfen becomes unaffordable to those in higher socioeconomic classes, and so the repeats itself, over and over and over, and over. Unfortunately, in the United States, the socioeconomic status of it's citizens directly correlates with race.

[@justbeinghonest1]

The gentleman that lives here is super humble it takes a lot of strength to live in the projects and not be scared

[@nm93932]

When I lived in the projects, I used constantly hear that I would end up joining a gang, start doing drugs, or be a teen mom and stay in the ghetto, and my kids would follow the same path. That is not true for everyone. The sad part was always watching gang members harrass the kids going to college...I remember watching them be chased around, hearing "you think you are better than us". Instead of supporting, they tried to bring them down. 😕 I had good memories in the projects....but the most horrific ones as well....but everything the good and the bad just become a norm. Living in the projects made me appreciate many things that others don't and also how to be safe out there.

[@dollsNcats]

I never understood that ! It’s almost like a jealousy thing like deep down they want better but don’t know how to get out :( !

[@bananita92]

When I began watching your shorts I could see the fun and voyeuristic aspect to them that would get people hooked. Here, you cross into a much more human and relatable content, past the sometimes misplaced curiosity and into a very powerful and impactful content. Props to you. This was powerful.

[@sto2779]

What they don't tell you is getting a spot in the projects is harder than you think it is. You have to wait on a queue where thousands of people are already on the queue.

[@joberry877]

I appreciate this episode a lot. Thank you for not making living in the projects the most stereotypical, negative thing ever. Nicely done

[@dexterplameras3249]

In Australia what you call "The Projects" is called "Public Housing". One of the lessons they learnt from the US was not to put to many of them in the same place creating a Ghetto. Public housing is mixed up into upper to middle income neighborhoods so that kids grow up with friends from those areas and have a much better opportunities. It also reduces the chances of kids mixing in the the wrong crowd. This is one of the reasons why Australia has few or no gangs, and public housing is mostly a safe option.

[@vilstef6988]

I love this guy's positivity! The teddy bear story was really touching!

[@JoJo.Christmas]

Lived and grew up in the Marlboro Houses in Gravesend and Langston Hughes in Brownsville. Made and met some of my best friends, even to the day. Made great memories, and was fortunate enough to move out and leave not only the projects but NYC. NYCHA is all what you make of it. 💯💯

[@rickyparrilla2426]

I applaud this kid for being 24 years old and having a great head on his shoulders . Everything he said about growing up in public housing is so true. Public housing were really meant to help families get on there feet and then move on but most don't move ahead. They stay there and unfortunately living in public housing can ruin whole families. I know cause I was raised in public housing and I have seen whole families ruined by the surroundings. Thank God I moved out when I was 23. I remember growing up with other families and and seeing every single son or daughter in certain families getting incarcerated for many years. What's sad is our government doesn't even care!!!

[@ProPandaPlays]

Lolol clowns

[@oscarrada7475]

Amazing ✨ I’m not surprised cuz I’ve always known people from the projects; like he said some people make it out, some don’t. Everything is perspective and how it shifts is up to you. I’m just really happy that there’s still progressive thought Everywhere ✨ This episode just made this series all the better. The teddy bear backstory was really touching I thought 🧸 Good job 👍🏽

[@karasimon6766]

People in the US don’t realize how poor people in other countries are. Coming here is a dream recognized for a few and like this wonderful man was saying, his mom appreciated the apartment.

[@Imsupersandy]

100%

[@ynemapickard1536]

Been people waiting over 10 years for a place like this...why he get one

[@kaylaxloves6802]

@@ynemapickard1536 because they didn’t TRY, they didn’t strive. You can’t hate on a man that wised anything but love. He’s wise, he knows how to keep clean and also just LIVE in the projects, I know so many people that live in the projects and their struggling, so hard.

[@sonderexpeditions]

Say it louder for people who say America is like a 3rd world country. Audacity. They should step outside.

[@adifferenttake8351]

I am from an earlier generation and used to spend a few weeks a couple of summers in a row with my uncle and aunt in a project in Manhattan. I always enjoyed it and the place was nice as is your place. Folks were just regular folks who weren't behaving negatively or negatively looking at the lives they were living in NYC. The vibe was good.

[@sethharper9663]

Love this episode, great to see how happy people can be with so little. Don't always need these flashy places/things to find happiness. It comes from within.

[@stonahhlovah2026]

So little how...he has a fuckin apt living good

[@CC8CY]

I love real stories like this. It's sincere and grounded. He's so wise too

[@KP-jg8yq]

“That safety net became a comfort net.”

[@fantazephir5597]

I really like this episode. Life is truly about your perspective, outlook. I know he definitely sees the glass as half full 💪🏽👍🏽. I lived in a project growing up starting in 3rd grade , and maintenance were always in awe stepping into the home my parents created. It was beautiful, linoleum floors and 7 children. Always clean. A visiting family member once said he thought we were like the Huxtable family 😊. It’s all about who you are and what you make of wherever you are at. 🙏🏽

[@Pinkexplosion2023]

"Perception is power".....well said....

[@mercibeau]

honestly i love how he completely transformed the apartment. i was born and raised in ny and like to say i had the best of both worlds. my mother was low income so i lived in the projects for half of my life on the weekdays, while my father was middle class and i live with him in his house in the bronx on the weekends/summers. i miss it honestly. my mother decided to move us out from nyc and as much as i resented her for it, i genuinely think it molded me into a better person. i would love to move back now that i am the person that i am today

[@tracey8698]

Would you say you preferred visiting your dad in the middle class area or did you much prefer the low income living with your mom?

[@keithgoodson687]

Nobody pays $25.00. I worked as a property manager with NYCHA for 22 years. Rent is 30 percent of your income. The lowest that I've ever charged was $99.00 for a studio to a woman who only who only received a small pension.

[@jazcc]

That could be now. But that could be prior to when you started. I’ve certainly been surprised.

[@keithgoodson687]

@@jazcc I left NYCHA in 2010, since then rents have increased dramatically because rent caps (maximum rents) have risen. The max for a 1 bedroom was $421, now it's $1200. Even, a single person on straight Welfare is charged $215.00 rent. However, a COVID hardship rent was temporarily put into effect in 2010. Only under this scenario, could a rent possibly be as low as $25. This would be for a family where most of the household income has been temporarily lost as a result of the pandemic. That's it.

[@jazcc]

@@keithgoodson687 Wow. I believe that. I remember overhearing a conversation in the early 2000’s when I was in a Dr waiting room. These two lady’s talking about rent and I one of them was complaining that her rent was increased from like 17 bucks to 50 dollars. I think she was getting section 8. My jaw almost dropped lol. I never thought that was possible lol.

[@keithgoodson687]

@@jazcc Now you're 100% right about Section 8.

[@EvralTatum-Mcfield-ov2mi]

Well over here in Boston Housing Authority, if you have no income, is only 1 dollar, if you got income it's 30% percent of your gross, you cannot charge no rent to someone who has no income, in project based development, at least here in Boston@@keithgoodson687

[@chlero_eyes]

This project is nice compared to Bronx , Brooklyn. In the Bronx there wouldn't have any Hot water for weeks in the winter, no heat for day. Roaches and rats all over, even if you clean nextdoor ain't. Elevators break 2 to 3 times a week, the stairs have piss and shit mostly from dogs, I'm guessing?good luck if you on the 20th floor. Now let that all hit you on one cold ass day, after having a bad day at work...if you work

[@KaelaComontofski]

Wow. Terrific video! And this young man has an amazing head on his shoulders and PERSPECTIVE, as he teaches, about life!

[@Linda-xk6ed]

A few years back I was in a wheelchair. I went to the Projects on Avenue X in Brooklyn to visit an older woman that I have known all my life. I was waiting for the elevator and realized it was stuck on an upper floor. Then two of the nicest guys ever came in and asked how long I was waiting. I told them about ten minutes. They said, don't leave we will go up and see where its stuck and what the issue is. After a few minutes, the young men came back down and told me it was stuck on the sixth floor. A repairman was working on it and said the elevator would be down shortly. I thanked these sweet guys and said okay I will wait. They said "we hope you don't mind, but we will stay with you. In case the elevator does not come down, we had already decided that we would carry you up". I was shocked. Never had anyone said something so very kind to me. I will remember them for the rest of my life. God Bless those two Angels. xoxo

[@28ny]

I love it when foreign blacks come to the US and see what's here and say we don't appreciate it when the fact is, we were murdered and oppressed to make it nice for YOU to come here. Don't EVER disrespect Black Americans, the people who made it possible for you to BE HERE.

[@donnieanddad2012]

This kid inspires me more than all the world leaders combined and I’m old enough to be his Dad. Thanks for sharing.

[@LAWLESSKING]

Also as a dude that was homeless for a stint and then I had the opportunity to move into the PJs for a while I felt that energy exactly that everyone was talking about the pjs being hell and for me it was an upgrade. I'm glad I got out and got my own place but it wasn't a bad time for me even tho I was the only white dude in the projects in morissania south BX back in 2009 LOL. Everyone just left me alone cuz I minded my own business but was also aware of my surroundings. I'm not a fool you gotta know youre in other people's neighborhood sometimes.

[@MRBBALLMAN10]

Webster Avenue baby. The 1200 side.

[@LAWLESSKING]

@@MRBBALLMAN10 169th and 3rd for me

[@teejohnson2949]

I really love what he said, it’s either going to be your x, excuse or be your y, your why? That was beautiful. I feel the exact same way. I might’ve been born in the projects, might live in the projects but my plan is not to stay here and become complacent but get out!! 🙌🏾👏🏾👏🏾🙏🏾

[@planwithmarisol]

He's so positive. I love his whole vibe. Amazing young man.

[@ladonnaantoinette9476]

I really appreciate his perspective and do believe this is the best interview of yours I’ve seen. Thank you for sharing a different insight on gentrification and low income housing.

[@tkthree]

Appreciate this, such a thoughtful take on public housing, and really cool to hear sandy's perspective.

[@snuff2023]

Section 8 saved my life when i was a single mom of 1 who just left an abusive drug addict (i had only ever done weed). Now with 3 kids, 2 severe special needs, it has saved me again. Where i live is super nice compared to many other places. 2 bathroom and 3 bedroom and the rent is affordable. I just stay to myself and don't associate with my neighbors. I learned early on that avlot of ppl have too much time to do drugs, gossip, or all of it.

[@chefnic4763]

Growing up in the pjs was hard. Even now, I'm always looking over my shoulder.

[@antoniafoster8264]

He’s such a good guy. Smart and well spoken. Keep up with him for us. I wish him much success and happiness. ♥️

[@spideyschaf9489]

The thought and spirit of this kid’s perspective was the exact intention behind the genesis of Public Housing. You’re an embodiment of the dream my young man. Respect 🫡 ✊🏽

[@lebronpryor6677]

My family lived in(Webster Ave Bronx) NYCHA for years . The roach3s come out when the lights go off

[@jasonbourne7120]

Just FYI to those that have never lived in the projects this is absolutely not how it normally is in most projects. You would never get a camera inside the front door of a real project building. You would be shot on sight.

[@MsRotorwings]

I really like this kid. He really seems to have a good perspective. It is clear his Mom cares for her family.

[@user-zx8de8op9l]

I am 50 and am from Chicago area. I am familiar with the run down projects in Chicago that have now been demolished. I expected the same thing in this video. This looks better than many that are on the open market, as far as size.

[@gregoryburgie]

This Is one of the nicer project apartments. But unfortunately they're are so many that's in poor condition This family has really set up The place beautifully

[@ynemapickard1536]

His whole family was there and probably still is...

[@Carolinas_SweetTea]

As a low income low poverty woman living in SC. There are many places you can make a home. I love his apt and for the price is even better. I love it and I love his outlook ❤❤❤❤

[@sophiaisabelle027]

We appreciate your effort and hard work. The apartment looks amazing overall.

[@carolbigley1284]

I also grew up in the Projects 25th and 10th avenue Chelsea ! Had a wonderful childhood ! the Projects made me who I am today !

[@Imsupersandy]

oh yeah 100%

[@EvralTatum-Mcfield-ov2mi]

This are the good ones, kind of hard to qualify for them!!

[@judemanning2648]

Caleb, this is my new favorite video. This gentleman is so amazing. So REAL. I love how you curated the entire interview with this gentleman. He is a LEADER, a KING. …and Caleb NAILED IT in this video. (And his pet queen ant…pretty special. Ultimately: this vid is rich content.)

[@Tiaxxxxxooooo]

I lived in a NYCHA building in Brooklyn now I have my own apartment in Flatbush after I graduated university and came back to Brooklyn I’m 25 currently and these are the real people videos I like to hear and see in NYC.

[@rob7509]

I don’t think i could do this live there it would stress me out always looking over my shoulder . He is a bright man good on him making the best of his situation to want more in life as he should 👍🙏

[@jimmychristmas2592]

I'd rather "look over my shoulder (cap)" than pay $4,000+ for a place 3x as small two blocks away

[@staceym.6052]

if it would stress you out just to do a video, how do you think the people living there feel ?

[@jimmychristmas2592]

@@staceym.6052 they're probably much happier than the gentrifiers paying 10x across the street

[@staceym.6052]

@@jimmychristmas2592 in terms of payment, yes but living conditions, not so much

[@jimmychristmas2592]

@@staceym.6052 you're right they get 3x the size apartment and gov stabilized! STUPID

[@r.r4270]

Powerful perception great story. I grew up in the projects and i love the projects it made me appreciate life. 🙏 Thank you momma for being your best. We made it in the projects.

[@jamesreid2939]

Flatbush Gardens! I've cleaned those boilers many many times.

[@Sunnbuzz]

I'm blown away by the insight of some younger people especially this guy, I didn't start having insight till my late 30s and realizing being comfortable keeps you stuck. That said I've grown these last 10 yrs so its NEVER too late to change

[@ThatCodeBlue]

This man is putting his creativity, initiative and integrity to use giving opportunities that he earned the hard way forward to others. I am impressed!!

[@poppycow]

This is Cooper Park Houses, Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY. The fences surrounding the ball court give it away.