NeighborImpact helps struggling homeowners

Current homeowners facing foreclosure or having difficulty paying their mortgage can receive help through NeighborImpact’s HomeSource office.

The agency facilitates two programs, Mortgage payment Assistance (MPA), and the Oregon Foreclosure Avoidance program (OFA).

MPA is offered through the Oregon Homeownership Stabilization Initiative (OHSI), which assists homeowners who are unemployed or facing financial difficulties. The program fully covers up to 12 months of mortgage payments and another $10,000 in back payments. So far, OHSI has dispensed $70 million in funds helping over 6,000 Oregonians.

“The surest road to poverty is losing a home,” says Lynne McConnell, associate director of HomeSource and Assets. “Many families experience unforeseen financial hardships like losing a job or mounting healthcare debt. Our goal is to provide opportunities for them to get back on their feet.”

OFA was created out of Oregon Senate Bill 558 in 2013 and provides a process for homeowners to meet with their lender to find alternatives to foreclosure. The bill requires homeowners to submit financial documents, work with a financial counselor, and meet directly with a lender. Qualified homeowners have either received a “Notice of Resolution Conference” from a lender, or are behind on payments and request a loan conference.

“While NeighborImpact helps many low-income families, HomeSource is an example of the agency’s mission to serve people of all income levels. Homeownership is an essential part of assuring families can maintain self-sufficiency,” explains Kevin Scalise, HomeSource manager.

The cycle for MPA opens every other Wednesday and is currently available April 2nd, 16th, and 30 th . MPA ends at the end of April. OFA, on the other hand, is an ongoing program. For more information, contact NeighborImpact’s HomeSource office at (541) 318-7506. Homeowners can also visit the following websites for eligibility requirements:

Mortgage Payment Assistance:
http://www.oregonhomeownerhelp.org/en/faqs

Oregon Foreclosure Avoidance: https://www.foreclosuremediationor.org/Content/Site/558/homeowners/index.html

NeighborImpact is a 21 Cares for Kids partner.

About NeighborImpact: Since 1985, NeighborImpact has been a leader in developing solutions and bringing resources to Crook, Jefferson and Deschutes County. The agency offers a diversity of services meeting basic human needs for food and shelter, while enriching people’s lives by providing access to increased education, skills, and hope for the future. NeighborImpact is a private nonprofit organization that receives federal, state and local funding; foundation grants; and donations from individuals and businesses in our community. To learn more about NeighborImpact please visit www.neighborimpact.org.