New York City set a record in 2017 by preserving or creating 24,500 affordable homes as part of an ongoing effort to add 300,000 affordable apartments by 2026.

Half the homes created or preserved last year are affordable to a person making about $33,000 per year or a family of three making $43,000.

Jasper Hurst, 79, moved to New York from Fayetteville, North Carolina, when he was 17 years old and seeking better job opportunities. When his common-law wife passed away years ago, he didn't know where to go.

Since he and his wife were not legally married, his name was not on the lease. He applied a year ago for a housing lottery and was thrilled when he learned he qualified.

Hurst is happy to stay in the Brooklyn neighborhood where he has lived for 42 years, which is also not far from his granddaughter.

The city is encouraging anyone who qualifies to apply for the lottery.