Every two years, the New York City Rent Guidelines Board (RGB) votes on the percentage of rent increases for rent stabilization apartments through the City. In April 2005, the RGB proposed a 5-7% rent increase for all rent stabilized apartments in the next two years.

For low-income residents, this 5-7% increase to 5-7% too much. AAFE worked with other community based organizations to embark on a campaign to "stop the rent hikes" in New York City. AAFE worked in conjunction with Tenants and Neighbors, Good Old Lower East Side and other community leaders to rally against any proposed rent increases.

AAFE collected over 600 postcards and testified at the June 16, 2005 RGB public hearing in Manhattan. Through community pressure, the RGB finally approved a 2.75% rent increase for one year leases and a 4.5% rent increase for a two year lease.