Workshop for troubled homeowners

MILFORD — As the mortgage crisis continues to pose financial challenges to an increasing number of regional homeowners, Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton [CSSDS] and Neighborhood Housing Services of Lackawanna County [NHS] are taking steps to offer immediate and free assistance through housing counseling workshops. The next seminars in the series will be held in Pike County. The schedule is: Monday, Sept. 8, St. Patrick’s Church, 111 East High St., Milford Monday, Sept. 15, St. Vincent de Paul Church, 101 St. Vincent Drive, Milford Catholic Social Services and NHS will conduct housing education seminars throughout the region designed to encourage people who may be having trouble making mortgage payments to “take the first step” in dealing with their situation. For many people, the fear of losing their home can be crippling, and it keeps them from taking some basic corrective actions early in the process which could ultimately help them protect their investment. There are a number of local organizations who provide free housing counseling services, including Catholic Social Services and Neighborhood Housing Services of Lackawanna County. Having the proper understanding of the foreclosure process and knowledge of a homeowner’s legal rights and options is crucial. These organizations can walk homeowners ~ step by step ~ through concerted efforts to save their home from foreclosure. Presenters at the workshops will include professionals from Catholic Social Services, Neighborhood Housing Services of Lackawanna County, and representatives from the legal and real estate communities. Information to be presented will include: Taking the First Steps to Prevent Foreclosure Options Available to Homeowners Currently in Default Status Understanding Adjustable Rate and Sub-Prime Mortgages State and Federal Assistance Program Update “We definitely encourage homeowners who may be having trouble making payments to attend” Monsignor Joseph P. Kelly, Executive Director of CSS stated, “Many times there are solutions to a mortgage delinquency, and the sooner a homeowner takes action, the better chance they have for a positive outcome.”