Full-day workshop to help homeowners avoid default, seizure
YEADON, June 3, 2013 – Recognizing that too many Delaware County homeowners are drowning in debt and fearing a loss of their properties and stability, state Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams, in partnership with the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, will sponsor a free daylong workshop Friday, June 21, on how to avert crisis. The event will run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
“The stress and worry about possibly losing a home because your hours were cut back, your investments took a nosedive or evaporated or any of life’s other bumps can be debilitating,” Williams said. “There are so many people out there suffering in silence; sometimes due to embarrassment or shame; sometimes because they simply don’t know where to turn. Our goal is to throw a lifeline.”
Delaware County residents were second only to Philadelphia in the number of foreclosures in the first quarter of the year, according to RealtyTrac. About 1-in-204 households here faced foreclosure; many others continue to teeter on the edge.
Decreasing wealth and increasing poverty have been on the rise in America’s suburbs, and in Pennsylvania, Delaware County has notched some of the fastest rates of decline, according to a recent report by the Brookings Institute.
Working- and middle-class residents unused to and unfamiliar with navigating social service and government agencies have been hit especially hard during the recession and its slow recovery.
“Our housing counselors have the training and experience needed to help homeowners find workable mortgage solutions with their home loan providers,” said PHFA Executive Director Brian A. Hudson Sr. “We want homeowners to know that help is available. They can take advantage of the resources available, at no cost to them.”
This event targets Delaware County homeowners struggling with mortgage payments and those whose homes are now worth less than what’s owed. Counselors will be on hand to help residents negotiate with loan officers and leave with real solutions. Appointments are requested because space is limited.
“There are options out there. There are solutions; people willing to work with you and to be on your side. You don’t have to shoulder this alone,” Williams added. “If you live in Delaware County and covering your mortgage is giving you heartburn, you should really come to this workshop and find out what help is available for you and your family.”
IF YOU GO:
WHAT
The Delaware County Keeping Your Home Yours workshop, sponsored by state Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams and the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency
WHEN
7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday, June 21
WHERE
Yeadon Borough Hall, Church Lane and Baily Road, Yeadon
WHO
Open to Delaware County homeowners in need of or have questions about mortgage relief. Appointments are requested. Call (800) 635-4747 to reserve a space.
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