Securing Rhode Island mortgage relief is a critical goal for homeowners experiencing financial hardship. A robust system of support exists to help you avoid foreclosure if you are struggling to make your mortgage payments. It is essential to understand that you are not alone and that proactive steps can lead to a sustainable solution.

State-chartered agencies, non-profit organizations, and legal aid services offer a clear path toward stability. They provide resources like foreclosure prevention counseling, state-mandated mediation, and free legal assistance. The key to a successful outcome is to act quickly and engage with these established support networks.

Critical Update: The Status of the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF-RI)

It is important for homeowners to have the most current information. The Homeowner Assistance Fund Rhode Island (HAF-RI) program, a significant source of federal relief created to address COVID-19 related hardships, is closed to new applications as of July 25, 2023. Many online resources may still reference this program, but it is no longer an available option for new applicants.

The closure of this temporary fund marks a return to the state's permanent and foundational support systems for homeowners. While HAF-RI provided direct grants to cover past-due balances, the currently available resources focus on creating long-term, sustainable solutions. The strategy for homeowners has shifted from applying for a one-time grant to engaging in a structured process of professional counseling, direct negotiation with lenders, and leveraging legal protections to achieve a manageable mortgage payment for the future.

Your Immediate Action Plan: Three Steps to Take Right Now

When facing mortgage difficulties, the feeling of being overwhelmed can be paralyzing. Taking immediate, focused action is the most effective way to regain a sense of control. The following three steps are the foundation of a successful foreclosure prevention strategy.

Step 1: Contact Your Mortgage Servicer

The first and most crucial step is to communicate with your lender or mortgage servicer as soon as you anticipate having trouble making a payment. Lenders are not in the business of owning homes; they would much rather find a workable solution than proceed with a costly and complex foreclosure process.

When you call, be prepared to explain your situation honestly. State that you are experiencing a financial hardship and wish to explore your options for mortgage relief or loss mitigation. Federal mortgage servicing laws often require servicers to discuss foreclosure alternatives with you, so initiating this conversation is a protected and necessary step.

Step 2: Gather Your Financial Documents

Nearly every assistance program will require a clear picture of your financial situation to determine your eligibility and identify the best possible solutions. Gathering these documents now will save critical time later in the process.

While the specific requirements may vary slightly, the core documents are consistent across all agencies:

• Proof of Income: Your most recent 30 days of pay stubs for all household members, as well as proof of any other income (Social Security, disability, child support, etc.).
• Tax Returns: Your two most recent federal tax returns, including all schedules and W-2s.
• Bank Statements: Your two most recent statements for all checking and savings accounts.
• Mortgage Statement: Your most recent mortgage statement, which includes your loan number and servicer's contact information.
• Hardship Letter: A brief, signed letter explaining the circumstances that led to your financial difficulty.

Having these documents organized allows a housing counselor or legal representative to assess your case quickly and advocate effectively on your behalf.

Step 3: Do Not Pay for Foreclosure Prevention Help

Be extremely wary of any company that charges upfront fees for foreclosure prevention services or promises guaranteed results. Legitimate, effective assistance is available at no cost to you from state-sponsored programs and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-approved counseling agencies. These non-profit organizations are funded to provide free, expert guidance. Paying a private company for these services is unnecessary and often a sign of a predatory scam that targets vulnerable homeowners.

RIHousing: The State's Primary Support for Homeowners

At the center of Rhode Island's homeowner assistance network is RI Housing. As a state-chartered entity, it serves as the primary, trusted resource for residents navigating mortgage challenges. Its Help Center is a HUD-approved counseling agency that provides a suite of free, confidential services designed to prevent foreclosure and promote long-term housing stability.

Service 1: Free HUD-Approved Housing Counseling

The first point of contact for most struggling homeowners should be RI Housing's Help Center. This is not simply a source of advice; it is a hub for active advocacy. Certified housing counselors work as your professional ally, providing expert guidance and direct intervention to resolve your mortgage delinquency.

What to Expect During Your Session

A counseling session involves a comprehensive review of your finances, including your income, expenses, and debts. Based on this assessment, your counselor will:

• Develop a realistic household budget.
• Explain the foreclosure process and your rights as a homeowner.
• Work directly with your mortgage servicer to apply for a loan modification, forbearance agreement, or other workout plan.
• Refer you to free legal services if your situation requires it.

How to Get Started

To begin the process, you must complete and submit a Financial Information Package. A counselor will then be assigned to your case to review your options.

• Contact RI Housing Help Center: 401-457-1130.

Service 2: The Foreclosure Mediation Program

Rhode Island law provides a powerful protection for homeowners: the right to a formal mediation conference with their lender. Under R.I. General Laws § 34-27-3.2, this program is designed to facilitate a resolution and is a critical tool for avoiding foreclosure.

This program is more than just a meeting; it is a state-mandated process that levels the playing field. Lenders are legally required to participate in good faith, and the entire process is overseen by RI Housing, which acts as a neutral facilitator. This structure ensures that your case is given serious consideration.

The effectiveness of this approach is clear: since its inception in 2013, approximately 70% of mediation conferences have resulted in the lender not proceeding to foreclosure. A significant feature of the program is its cost structure. The service is entirely free for the homeowner; the mortgage lender is required by law to pay the associated fees.

The Mediation Process

The mediation process follows a clear path:

1. Contact the Coordinator: Once you receive a notice of default, you should immediately contact the RI Housing Mediation Coordinator to express your intent to participate.
2. Select a Counselor: The coordinator will provide a list of HUD-approved counseling agencies. You will select one to work with, and your assigned counselor will help you prepare the necessary paperwork and will attend the mediation conference to advocate on your behalf.
3. Schedule the Conference: The law provides a 60-day window for the mediation conference to occur, making it essential to start the process as soon as possible.

• Contact the Mediation Coordinator: 401-457-1213.

Service 3: Tax Lien Assistance (The Madeline Walker Act)

Foreclosure can also result from delinquent property taxes. The Madeline Walker Act is a unique Rhode Island state law that provides a critical safety net for homeowners at risk of losing their homes in a tax sale.

Under this law, RI Housing has the legal right to purchase delinquent tax liens on owner-occupied properties (1-3 units) from municipalities before they are sold to private investors at a public auction. The primary benefit this provides is time. A private investor who purchases a tax lien can initiate foreclosure proceedings after holding the lien for just one year.

However, the Madeline Walker Act requires RI Housing to hold the lien for a minimum of five years before it can begin foreclosure. This five-fold increase in the remediation window is the program's core strength. It transforms an immediate crisis into a manageable, long-term challenge.

During this extended period, RI Housing works with the homeowner to:

• Establish a sustainable payment plan.
• Provide connections to housing counseling and other community resources.

There is a critical and non-negotiable deadline for this program. To be eligible for assistance, a homeowner must contact RI Housing at least 20 days prior to the scheduled tax sale date. Missing this deadline means RI Housing will be unable to intervene, and the tax lien will proceed to public auction.

Accessing Free Legal Assistance to Protect Your Home

In situations where foreclosure is imminent or legal complexities arise, professional legal representation is invaluable. Rhode Island has a two-pronged legal safety net that provides free services to homeowners, ensuring that assistance is available to residents across different circumstances.

This dual structure acknowledges that financial hardship is not exclusive to one income bracket. One program is designed for those who have experienced a specific life event that caused their financial distress, while the other serves low-income individuals more broadly. Understanding the distinction will help you connect with the right resource for your situation.

Option 1: The Rhode Island Bar Association's Foreclosure Prevention Project

This program is specifically designed to help homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure due to a specific, qualifying financial hardship. It operates by connecting eligible residents with a network of private attorneys who volunteer their time and expertise pro bono (free of charge).

Eligibility and Services

Eligibility is often triggered by a significant life event that has impacted your ability to pay your mortgage, such as:

• Loss of employment or a decrease in salary.
• Divorce or separation.
• Death of a family member.
• A serious illness.
• Loss or denial of benefits like child support or alimony.

Volunteer attorneys can provide direct representation in a variety of legal areas crucial to preventing foreclosure, including loan modifications, bankruptcy proceedings, and probate matters.

How to Get Help

The process for getting help is straightforward:

1. Initial Call: Telephone the project's central number.
2. Intake Interview: A staff member will conduct a confidential interview to understand your legal issue and determine eligibility.
3. Attorney Matching: If you are eligible, the staff will match your case with an experienced volunteer attorney. You will then be given the attorney's contact information to schedule your first appointment.

While the attorney's legal services are free, the homeowner may be responsible for minor court fees or litigation costs.

• Contact the Foreclosure Prevention Project: 401-421-7758.

Option 2: Rhode Island Legal Services (RILS) Foreclosure Prevention Project

Rhode Island Legal Services (RILS) is a non-profit organization that provides high-quality legal assistance to low-income Rhode Islanders. Its Foreclosure Prevention Project is a dedicated unit that offers free counseling and legal representation to eligible homeowners and tenants in foreclosed properties.

Legal Services Offered

RILS offers a comprehensive suite of legal services aimed at stopping foreclosure and protecting homeowners' rights. Their attorneys can assist with:

• Negotiating loan modifications and other settlements with banks.
• Providing advice and representation in bankruptcy cases.
• Identifying and fighting predatory lending practices.
• Filing cases in state, federal, and bankruptcy courts.

Homeowners can seek assistance by contacting RILS directly. Additionally, a housing counselor at RI Housing may provide a direct referral to RILS if legal intervention is deemed necessary during the counseling process.

• Contact Rhode Island Legal Services: 401-274-2652.

Official Directory of HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agencies in Rhode Island

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) certifies non-profit agencies across the country to provide free or very low-cost housing counseling services. These organizations are trained to offer impartial, expert advice to help homeowners make responsible decisions. Having a consolidated list of Rhode Island agencies can save valuable time for a homeowner in crisis.

The following table provides a directory of all HUD-approved housing counseling agencies in Rhode Island. The "Key Mortgage-Related Services Offered" column helps you identify the agency best equipped to handle your specific needs.

Taking Control and Moving Forward

Facing the risk of foreclosure is a serious and stressful challenge, but it is one that does not have to be faced alone. Rhode Island has created a clear and structured support system with multiple entry points for assistance. From the expert advocacy of a HUD-approved housing counselor to the legal protections offered by state law and pro bono attorneys, a pathway to a resolution exists.

The single most important factor in achieving a positive outcome is taking proactive steps. The further behind you fall on payments, the fewer options may be available. Engaging early with the free resources outlined here is the first and most powerful step toward regaining control of your financial future. Making the call to RI Housing's Help Center or another HUD-approved counseling agency can set in motion a process designed to keep you in your home.

Relevant Resources

• RI Housing Homeowner Assistance: https://www.rihousing.com/homeowner-assistance/
• Rhode Island Legal Services: https://rils.org/
• Rhode Island Bar Association: https://www.ribar.com/
• HUD Housing Counselor Locator: https://apps.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm

Frequently Asked Questions

The impulse to help when encountering a person experiencing homelessness is a powerful and deeply human one. Seeing someone in need often sparks a desire to offer immediate, tangible support. For many, assembling blessing bags—also known as care kits or homeless care packages—has become a popular way to channel this desire into direct action. These kits, filled with essentials, represent a direct gesture of kindness.

However, the reality of homelessness in the United States is a complex crisis that requires more than just good intentions. The need is staggering and growing. In January 2024, a single-night count found approximately 771,480 people experiencing homelessness, a record high since data collection began and an 18% increase from the previous year.

This crisis disproportionately affects communities of color. For instance, Black individuals represent over 31% of the unhoused population but only about 14% of the total US population. These numbers underscore the urgency of the situation and highlight the importance of ensuring that any aid provided is not only well-intentioned but also genuinely effective, respectful, and informed.

Moving beyond a generic checklist is essential. A truly helpful blessing bag is one assembled with a deep understanding of the recipient's daily reality. This includes the severe health challenges, logistical burdens, and the need for dignity that define life without a stable home.

This requires a thoughtful approach that considers not only what to include but also why certain items are critical and what should be avoided. It also involves recognizing the limitations of this form of aid and exploring how individual compassion can support larger, systemic solutions. The goal is to transform a simple act of charity into a meaningful gesture of solidarity that truly makes a difference.

Assembling a Truly Helpful Blessing Bag: The Essential Checklist

Creating a blessing bag that provides genuine comfort and utility begins with selecting the right items. The most effective kits are packed with practical, portable, and high-need essentials that address the immediate challenges of living without consistent access to shelter, sanitation, and storage.

A well-curated bag prioritizes health, nutrition, and protection from the elements, all while being mindful of the weight and space constraints faced by individuals who must carry all their belongings. The following checklists are based on direct feedback from outreach organizations and individuals with lived experience, designed to guide the creation of a truly beneficial care package.

Core Hygiene and Health

Personal hygiene is a matter of health, dignity, and self-esteem, yet it is incredibly difficult to maintain without access to a private bathroom. Items that are portable, effective without running water, and address critical health needs are the most valuable.

A crucial best practice is to place scented items like soap in a separate small bag before putting them in the main kit. This prevents the soapy taste and smell from permeating the food items, a small detail that shows considerable care and forethought.

Nutrient-Dense, Accessible Foods

For individuals experiencing homelessness, food must be non-perishable, require no preparation or refrigeration, and be easy to eat on the go. Critically, many unhoused individuals face significant dental problems, making soft, easy-to-chew foods far more practical and helpful than hard, crunchy, or sticky options. Always include plastic utensils if providing items that require them, like applesauce or pudding cups.

Essential Clothing and Weather Protection

Protection from the elements is a constant struggle. Clothing items should always be new for hygiene and dignity. Used clothing is better donated to shelters that can properly sort and distribute it. Seasonal considerations are paramount; what is helpful in winter can be useless in summer, and vice versa.

• Socks: This is the single most important and requested clothing item in homeless shelters. Provide new, durable, high-quality socks, preferably made of wool or a synthetic blend that wicks moisture.
• Underwear: New underwear is another high-need item that is rarely donated.
• Gloves and Hats: In colder climates, warm gloves and a beanie or winter hat are essential for preventing heat loss and frostbite.
• Rain Poncho: A lightweight, compact poncho can be a lifesaver, providing protection from rain and helping to keep belongings dry. Brightly colored ponchos can also increase visibility and safety.
• Seasonal Items:
• Winter: Include hand warmers, thermal blankets (Mylar space blankets), and long underwear if possible.
• Summer: Include sunscreen (travel-sized), sunglasses, and a small tube of aloe vera gel.

Items for Connection, Safety, and Practicality

Beyond basic survival, some items can provide a measure of safety, connection to resources, and a much-needed affirmation of humanity.

• List of Local Resources: This is one of the most impactful items to include. Compile a small, laminated, or waterproofed card with the names, addresses, phone numbers, and operating hours of local shelters, soup kitchens, food pantries, free medical clinics, and day centers. This information can be a critical lifeline.
• Handwritten Note of Encouragement: A simple, non-judgmental note can combat the feelings of invisibility and dehumanization that often accompany homelessness. Phrases like, "Thinking of you," "You are not forgotten," or "Wishing you the best" can make a significant emotional impact. Avoid religious messages unless you are certain they will be welcome.
• Small Flashlight: A compact LED flashlight or keychain light provides safety and convenience at night.
• Gift Cards: If the budget allows, a $5 or $10 gift card to a nearby fast-food restaurant (like McDonald's or Subway) or a grocery store provides the recipient with the dignity of choice. These establishments often have accessible restrooms as well.
• Reusable Bag: Packing the items in a durable, reusable bag, such as a drawstring backpack or a sturdy tote, provides a useful item that can be used long after the initial contents are gone.

The Unspoken Needs: Addressing Critical Health Gaps

Understanding the why behind certain high-priority items elevates the act of giving from simple charity to a form of preventative healthcare. Life on the streets exposes individuals to a host of severe health risks that are often invisible to the housed population. Including items that address foot health and oral health is a direct intervention that can prevent life-altering medical complications.

The Lifesaving Importance of New, Dry Socks

It may be surprising to learn that socks are consistently the single most requested item of clothing at homeless shelters across the country. This is not a matter of comfort; it is a critical issue of health and survival. Individuals experiencing homelessness are often on their feet for most of the day, walking long distances to access services or find a safe place to rest.

This constant mobility, combined with prolonged exposure to the elements, means their feet are frequently damp. Without access to laundry facilities or a place to dry out, socks are worn for days or even weeks at a time. This creates a perfect environment for a host of painful and dangerous foot conditions.

These include:

• Trench Foot: A serious condition from prolonged wetness that can lead to tissue decay, gangrene, and amputation if untreated.
• Fungal Infections: Conditions like athlete's foot thrive in moist environments, causing itching and blisters that can lead to bacterial infections.
• Frostbite: In cold weather, damp socks dramatically increase the risk of frostbite, which can cause permanent damage to skin and nerves.
• Blisters and Cellulitis: A simple blister can become infected, leading to cellulitis, a potentially life-threatening bacterial skin infection.

These conditions are more than just painful; they are debilitating. A person with a severe foot infection cannot walk to a job interview, a housing appointment, or a soup kitchen. Providing a new, clean, dry pair of socks is one of the most impactful healthcare interventions that can be included in a blessing bag.

Oral Health on the Streets: Why Dental Care Items Matter

Another profound health crisis within the unhoused community is the catastrophic state of oral health. The challenges of homelessness—malnutrition, poor hygiene, and a lack of access to professional care—create a devastating assault on dental well-being. Studies reveal a level of dental disease far exceeding that of the general population, with some surveys finding over 90% of homeless adults have untreated dental caries.

The consequences of this neglect are severe and multifaceted:

• Chronic Pain: Dental pain can be excruciating, interfering with sleep and making it impossible to focus on tasks necessary for exiting homelessness. Some individuals even resort to pulling their own teeth.
• Inability to Eat: Decayed or missing teeth make it impossible to eat a healthy diet, forcing a reliance on soft, often less nutritious foods. This is why blessing bags should contain soft, easy-to-chew foods.
• Barriers to Employment: Visible dental decay carries a heavy social stigma that can severely impact self-esteem and create a significant barrier to securing employment.
• Systemic Health Risks: Poor oral health is not confined to the mouth. Gum disease is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions.

Given these realities, the inclusion of a soft-bristled toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss is far more than a simple amenity. It is a tool for pain prevention, a means to improve nutrition, and a small step toward restoring self-confidence.

What to Avoid: Preventing Unintentional Harm and Waste

The desire to give generously can sometimes lead to including items that are unhelpful or even harmful. A thoughtful blessing bag is defined as much by what it leaves out as by what it includes. Avoiding common mistakes demonstrates a deeper level of empathy and respect for the recipient's circumstances.

Foods That Can Cause Problems

While food is a welcome gift, the wrong kind can be impractical or even painful to eat due to the severe dental issues prevalent in the homeless community.

• Hard or Chewy Foods: Avoid items like hard granola bars, tough beef jerky, nuts, and hard candies. These can be difficult or impossible for someone with dental pain to chew.
• Perishable Foods: Items that require refrigeration, such as fresh sandwiches with meat or cheese, can spoil quickly and cause foodborne illness.
• Items Requiring Preparation: Canned goods without pop-top lids are impractical, as most people do not carry a can opener. Similarly, items that need to be cooked are only useful if the person has access to hot water.

Items That Create Burdens or Risks

Living without a home means every possession must be carried. Unnecessary, heavy, or risky items add a significant physical burden and can create waste.

• Sharp Objects and Potential Weapons: For safety, never include items like pocket knives, metal utensils, or disposable razors. If including utensils, always opt for sturdy plastic varieties.
• Fire Starters: Avoid packing matches or lighters. They are a significant fire hazard in environments where people may be sleeping in tents or with flammable materials.
• Heavily Scented or Leaky Toiletries: Strong scents can ruin food items. Ensure all liquids are securely sealed to prevent leaks that can damage everything else in the kit.
• Mouthwash with Alcohol: Many shelters advise against including mouthwash that contains alcohol due to the potential for misuse.
• Used or Sized Clothing: Beyond socks and gloves, avoid including other clothing items. It is impossible to know a person's size, and it is far more effective to donate gently used clothing directly to a shelter.

The Nuances of Giving: Cash, Gift Cards, and Religious Items

Certain items carry social and personal complexities that require careful consideration. How these are handled can determine whether the gift feels empowering or patronizing.

• Cash: Many organizations advise against giving cash directly, citing the risk that it could be used to support an addiction. However, withholding cash can feel untrusting and strip individuals of their autonomy to decide what they need most.
• Gift Cards: A widely recommended compromise is a gift card in a small amount ($5-$10) for a local fast-food restaurant or grocery store. This provides choice and dignity while ensuring the funds are used for essentials.
• Religious Literature: Including religious tracts or Bibles can feel proselytizing and may alienate the recipient. A more inclusive gesture is a simple, handwritten note with a message of encouragement and shared humanity.

The Human Connection: Distributing Bags with Dignity and Safety

The act of giving a blessing bag is more than a simple transfer of goods; it is a human interaction. For a person who is frequently ignored, a moment of genuine, respectful connection can affirm their dignity. At the same time, it is essential to prioritize safety for both the giver and the recipient.

Prioritizing Safety for Everyone

Taking simple precautions is a matter of common sense and respect. The goal is to help, not to put anyone in a vulnerable position.

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: When distributing from a car, be mindful of traffic. If on foot, choose well-lit, public areas.
• Use Your Judgment: Trust your instincts. If a person appears agitated or a situation feels unsafe, it is better to refrain from approaching. Do not wake someone who is sleeping.
• Go with a Group: It is always safer to go with a friend or in a small group, especially when distributing in unfamiliar areas.
• Consider an Alternative: If handing out bags directly feels unsafe, donate the completed bags to a local homeless shelter or outreach organization. They can ensure the bags get to those who need them most.

A Respectful and Dignified Approach

The core of a positive interaction lies in honoring the recipient's humanity. People experiencing homelessness deserve the same courtesy and respect as anyone else. The feeling of being seen and treated like a person is often as valuable as any material item.

• Make Eye Contact and Offer a Warm Greeting: A simple smile and a friendly "hello" can break down the wall of invisibility and is a fundamental act of respect.
• Ask First, Don't Assume: Instead of simply thrusting a bag at someone, ask permission first. A polite question like, "Excuse me, I have some care kits. Would you be interested in one?" respects their autonomy.
• Be Open to Conversation, but Don't Force It: Be present and willing to listen if they initiate a conversation, but do not press for personal details or force interaction. Respect their privacy and boundaries.
• Don't Expect Anything in Return: The purpose of giving is to help, not to receive thanks. A person's life on the streets is immensely difficult, and they may not respond positively. The act of generosity should be its own reward.

Beyond the Bag: A Critical Perspective on This Form of Aid

While blessing bags come from a place of genuine compassion, it is crucial to engage with a more critical perspective on this form of aid. Examining the limitations and potential downsides reveals that good intentions do not always translate into good outcomes. This nuanced understanding is the first step toward more impactful forms of support.

Listening to Lived Experience: Is This Really Helping?

When the voices of recipients are centered, a more complex picture of blessing bags emerges. While some items are appreciated, the practice as a whole can be fraught with issues that givers may never consider.

• The Burden of Unwanted Items: A person experiencing homelessness has to carry every possession. Receiving a bag filled with items they do not need—such as a "seventh toothbrush of the month"—is not a blessing but a burden.
• The Feeling of Being Patronized: The pre-packaged, one-size-fits-all nature of blessing bags can feel impersonal. It presumes that the giver knows best, stripping the individual of their agency. As one individual expressed, it would be far better if people would "just fucking ask me what I need instead of thinking they know".
• Waste and Inefficiency: The phenomenon of abandoned blessing bags is a visible symptom of this disconnect. A bag left behind is often evidence that the contents did not match the person's needs, highlighting an inefficiency in the model.

Acknowledging the Limitations: A Band-Aid, Not a Cure

It is essential to recognize the structural limitations of blessing bags as a response to homelessness. They are, by their very nature, a short-term intervention that addresses symptoms, not causes.

A blessing bag can provide a meal or a dry pair of socks for a day. It can offer a moment of comfort and a brief respite from the harsh realities of the street. However, it cannot provide what is truly needed to escape homelessness: a safe place to sleep, access to healthcare, a steady income, and, most importantly, affordable and stable housing.

Focusing solely on individual acts of charity can create the illusion of a solution while drawing attention away from the systemic changes required. They are a "band-aid" for a deep, societal wound. While band-aids provide immediate relief, they should never be mistaken for the comprehensive treatment the wound requires.

Creating Lasting Change: High-Impact Alternatives and Systemic Support

The compassionate impulse that inspires a blessing bag is the perfect starting point for a deeper, more impactful engagement. By channeling that same energy toward established systems of support and advocacy, it is possible to contribute to lasting solutions for the entire community.

Support Proven Local and National Organizations

Donating money to reputable non-profit organizations is frequently cited by experts as the single most efficient and impactful way for an individual to help. These organizations are able to pool resources and use their expertise to provide comprehensive, life-changing services.

• Local Impact: Local homeless shelters like Carpenter's Shelter in Alexandria, VA, offer integrated services including case management, mental health support, employment assistance, and pathways to permanent housing.
• National Advocacy: National organizations work on the systemic level. The National Alliance to End Homelessness focuses on research and policy advocacy , while the   National Coalition for the Homeless centers the voices of those with lived experience.

Donate Smarter: Giving What's Actually Needed

For those who prefer to give physical goods, a strategic approach can ensure donations are maximally effective.

• Consult Shelter Wish Lists: Instead of guessing, check the websites of local shelters. Most maintain up-to-date "wish lists" of their most needed items. This allows donors to fill a specific, known gap.
• Support Hygiene Banks: Organizations like Simply the Basics operate on a food bank model, collecting bulk hygiene products and distributing them to a network of partner organizations based on their specific needs. This professionalized system reduces waste and ensures quality control.

The Power of Your Time and Voice

Beyond financial or material donations, two of the most valuable resources anyone can offer are their time and their voice.

• Volunteer: Local shelters, soup kitchens, and food pantries rely on volunteers to operate. Giving time to serve meals or sort donations is a direct and powerful way to support essential infrastructure.
• Become an Advocate: Ultimately, homelessness is a policy problem that requires policy solutions. The most lasting impact comes from advocating for systemic change, such as supporting affordable housing development, tenant protections, and increased funding for homeless services.

Conclusion

The journey of wanting to help a person experiencing homelessness often begins with a simple, tangible idea: the blessing bag. This act, born of compassion, can provide real, immediate comfort. By thoughtfully selecting items based on genuine needs and distributing them with respect, a blessing bag can be a meaningful gesture of kindness.

However, a deeper engagement with this issue reveals that the blessing bag is a starting point, not a final destination. Listening to the voices of those with lived experience encourages a shift in perspective. The most powerful expressions of compassion are those that support the comprehensive, systemic work being done by professional organizations.

The ultimate goal is not just to help a person survive another day, but to help create a world where no one has to live on the streets in the first place. This is achieved by channeling that initial impulse to help into smarter, more strategic forms of support: funding organizations, donating needed items, and advocating for policies that create housing, opportunity, and justice. In this way, a simple act of kindness evolves into a powerful force for lasting change.

 Frequently Asked Questions

Facing financial hardship and the threat of foreclosure can be an incredibly stressful experience. The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) offers assistance to residents struggling with their mortgage payments. The primary resource for homeowners at risk of foreclosure is the Homeowners' Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (HEMAP), a state-funded loan program designed as a crucial safety net.

It is vital for homeowners to understand their options and act quickly. A separate, federally funded grant program, the Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund (PAHAF), was created for COVID-19 hardships but is no longer accepting new applications. While waitlisted PAHAF applications are still being processed, no new submissions are possible. Therefore, the focus for homeowners currently seeking help is the established HEMAP program.

The Homeowners' Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (HEMAP): A Detailed Overview

HEMAP is a long-standing component of Pennsylvania's housing safety net. It is a well-established system designed to offer a lifeline to those facing a temporary financial crisis that jeopardizes their homeownership.

What HEMAP Is and How It Works

Created by state law (Act 91 of 1983), HEMAP's mission is to protect Pennsylvanians who, through no fault of their own, are in danger of losing their homes. It is a loan program, not a grant, meaning any funds provided must be repaid over time. The program identifies homeowners with a strong likelihood of recovering from their financial hardship and resuming their mortgage payments.

HEMAP is a sustainable, revolving loan fund. It is funded by state appropriations and, crucially, through the repayment of previous HEMAP loans. This structure ensures that as homeowners get back on their feet, the funds become available to help the next family in crisis.

HEMAP Eligibility Checklist: Do You Qualify?

To be eligible for a HEMAP loan, homeowners must meet several specific criteria. These requirements ensure the program assists those with a temporary hardship and a reasonable chance of recovery.

• Residency and Occupancy: The property must be your primary, owner-occupied residence and be located in Pennsylvania.
• Delinquency Status: You must be at least 60 days delinquent on your mortgage payments and have received an Act 91 Notice from your lender.
• Nature of Financial Hardship: The delinquency must result from circumstances beyond your control, such as involuntary job loss, serious illness, divorce, or the death of a primary wage earner.
• Prospect of Recovery: You must demonstrate a reasonable prospect of resuming full monthly mortgage payments within 24 to 36 months.
• Property and Mortgage Type: The home must be a one- or two-family residence. Most FHA Title II purchase loans are excluded from HEMAP.
• Prior Credit History: You must have had a favorable mortgage payment history for the five years preceding the delinquency.

Understanding the HEMAP Loan: What Assistance is Available

If approved, HEMAP assistance is structured as a loan secured by a mortgage on your property. The specifics are tailored to your financial situation.

Types of Assistance

Depending on your income and hardship, HEMAP offers two forms of aid:

• Continuing mortgage assistance loans to help with monthly payments for a set period.
• Non-continuing mortgage assistance loans to bring a delinquent account current.

Maximum Assistance and Repayment

• The total assistance is capped at $60,000 or 24 to 36 months of assistance from the original delinquency date, whichever comes first.
• Repayment is designed to be manageable. Your monthly payment to HEMAP is typically calculated as a percentage of your net monthly income (up to 35-40%), with a legally mandated minimum payment of $25.

Your Step-by-Step Path Through the HEMAP Application

The HEMAP application is a structured, time-sensitive process that requires working with a designated housing counseling agency. Understanding these steps is key to navigating the system.

Step 1: The Act 91 Notice - Your Official Starting Point

The process begins when you receive an official Act 91 Notice from your mortgage lender. This legally required document informs you of your right to apply for a HEMAP loan before your lender can proceed with foreclosure.

Step 2: Critical Deadline: Contact a Housing Counselor Within 33 Days

This is the most urgent step. After receiving the Act 91 Notice, you must schedule and attend a face-to-face meeting with a designated HEMAP counseling agency within 33 days from the date on the notice. Meeting this deadline legally prohibits your lender from advancing the foreclosure while your application is reviewed.

Step 3: Gathering Your Documents: A Preparation Checklist

Being prepared for your counseling meeting will streamline the process. You should be ready to provide the following documents:

• Proof of Hardship: A signed letter explaining the hardship, with supporting evidence (e.g., layoff notices, medical bills).
• Official Notices: The Act 91 Notice and any other foreclosure notices.
• Identification: Valid photo ID for all applicants.
• Income Verification: Recent pay stubs and verification of other income (unemployment, Social Security, etc.).
• Financial History: Federal tax returns for the past three years and recent bank statements.
• Property and Debt Documents: A copy of the deed, homeowner's insurance policy, and monthly statements for other debts.
• Plan for Recovery: An explanation of how you plan to resume full mortgage payments.

Step 4: The Application and Review Process

After your meeting, the counseling agency compiles and submits the application to PHFA on your behalf. The agency has 30 days to submit it, and PHFA has 60 days to make a decision. Throughout this period, the foreclosure action remains on hold.

Status of the Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund (PAHAF)

It is essential to understand the status of the Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund (PAHAF), which is separate from HEMAP.

PAHAF was established with federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to assist homeowners impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike HEMAP, PAHAF provided grants that did not need to be repaid.

Due to overwhelming demand, the PAHAF program paused accepting new applications as of February 1, 2023. While existing applications on the waitlist may still be processed, no new applications are being accepted. For information on a previously submitted application, visit pahaf.org.

Essential Support: Connecting with a HUD-Approved Housing Counselor

The most important action a homeowner can take after receiving an Act 91 Notice is to contact a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. Their services are mandatory for the HEMAP application and are provided at no cost.

These non-profit agencies are staffed with certified professionals trained to provide expert guidance on foreclosure prevention. They will help you assess your finances, gather documents, and submit the application to PHFA.

Find a Counselor Near You

To find a designated agency, use the official search tool on the PHFA website.

• PHFA Housing Counseling Agency Locator: https://www.phfa.org/counseling/hca.aspx

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) also maintains a national database.

• HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agencies: https://apps.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm

Key Counseling Agencies by Region

Additional Resources and Alternatives for Homeowners

While HEMAP is the primary foreclosure prevention program, it is crucial to explore all possible avenues for assistance.

Direct Communication with Your Lender

Contact your mortgage servicer immediately. Lenders often have internal programs and may offer solutions such as:

• Repayment Plans: To catch up on missed payments.
• Forbearance: A temporary suspension or reduction of payments.
• Loan Modification: A permanent change to your mortgage terms.

Other PHFA Programs

PHFA administers other programs that may offer assistance, including loans and grants for down payment and closing costs for new homebuyers or home repair programs for residents with disabilities.

Federal and Local Programs

Other resources may be available depending on your location. For homeowners in rural areas, the USDA Section 504 Home Repair program offers loans and grants to very-low-income residents to repair or modernize their homes. Check with your city or county government for any local housing programs.

 Frequently Asked Questions

For Oregon homeowners facing financial hardship, the possibility of falling behind on mortgage payments can be an overwhelming source of stress. The landscape of available assistance has changed significantly, and knowing where to turn for reliable help is the first and most critical step toward stability.

This resource provides a clear and accurate overview of the current state of mortgage relief in Oregon, focusing on the active programs and official channels designed to help homeowners prevent foreclosure. While major pandemic-era relief funds have concluded, a robust system of support remains in place, centered on mediation, expert counseling, and local assistance programs.

The Current State of Mortgage Assistance in Oregon

Navigating mortgage relief begins with understanding which programs are active and which have ended. Several high-profile initiatives that provided substantial aid during the COVID-19 pandemic are now closed. It is essential for homeowners to have the most current information to avoid confusion and pursue the right avenues for help.

A Closed Chapter: The Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF)

It is critical for homeowners to know that the Oregon Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) is closed and no longer accepting new applications. This federally funded program was established under the American Rescue Plan Act to provide emergency relief to homeowners who experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During its operation, the HAF program was a vital lifeline, disbursing over $72 million to 2,619 Oregon households. The aid, which averaged $27,429 per household, helped homeowners catch up on past-due mortgage payments, property taxes, and other housing-related costs. This assistance was typically structured as a no-interest, five-year, forgivable loan.

Homeowners who previously received HAF funds and are now selling or refinancing their property may need a payoff statement. These statements can be ordered by sending an email to haf.payoffs@hcs.oregon.gov.

Status of the Oregon Homeownership Stabilization Initiative (OHSI)

Similarly, the Oregon Homeownership Stabilization Initiative (OHSI) is also closed to new applications. This earlier program was created in response to the Great Recession and later extended to assist those impacted by the pandemic.

OHSI offered various forms of assistance, including one-time payments to bring delinquent mortgage accounts current. Homeowners who participated in OHSI and need a payoff statement for their loan should direct their requests via email to ohsi.payoffs@hcs.oregon.gov.

Active Solutions: Where to Turn for Help Now

The closure of these large-scale subsidy programs marks a significant change in Oregon's approach to mortgage relief. The strategy has evolved from providing emergency financial injections to empowering homeowners with procedural rights and expert guidance.

The primary, active resources available to homeowners in distress are now the Oregon Foreclosure Avoidance Program (OFAP) and the statewide network of free, certified housing counselors. This shift indicates a focus on creating sustainable, long-term solutions through negotiated loan modifications rather than temporary financial patches.

These programs are supported by a partnership between Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS), the Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR). The central online hub for homeowners seeking these resources is oregonhomeownerhelp.org.

The Oregon Foreclosure Avoidance Program (OFAP): Your Right to Mediate

For homeowners facing the threat of foreclosure, the Oregon Foreclosure Avoidance Program (OFAP) is the state's most powerful tool for intervention. It is not a financial assistance program but a legally mandated mediation process that provides homeowners with the right to a formal negotiation with their lender.

What is the OFAP?

The OFAP is a mandatory, statewide program created by the Oregon Legislature. It provides a structured and fair process for homeowners and lenders to find an alternative to foreclosure. Before most lenders can initiate a foreclosure, they are legally required to invite the homeowner to a "Resolution Conference". The program's core purpose is to facilitate direct communication and compel a good-faith negotiation aimed at keeping Oregonians in their homes.

Who is Eligible to Participate?

The program is available to a broad range of homeowners in distress. You are eligible to participate if:

• You have received a formal "Notice of Resolution Conference" from your lender.
• You are currently behind on your mortgage payments.
• You are not yet behind on payments but are experiencing a significant financial hardship and wish to proactively request a resolution conference.

The OFAP Process: A Four-Step Walkthrough

The path to a resolution conference is straightforward and designed to be accessible. It involves four key steps.

1. Pay the Fee: A homeowner must pay a participation fee, which ranges from $50 to $175 based on household income. A fee waiver is available for low-income households. Adhering to the payment deadline is critical; failure to pay on time can permit the lender to proceed with foreclosure without a meeting.
2. Meet with a Housing Counselor: This mandatory step is one of the most valuable aspects of the program. Homeowners meet with a certified foreclosure prevention counselor who provides free, expert advice and helps prepare the required documents.
3. Submit Your Documents: With the counselor's help, the homeowner submits financial documents through a secure online portal. This package typically includes proof of income, bank statements, and a hardship letter. Failing to submit documents on time will severely limit the possibility of reaching a successful agreement.
4. Attend the Resolution Conference: This is the formal meeting with the lender, which can be held virtually or in person. The conference is led by a neutral facilitator, and the homeowner has the right to be accompanied by their housing counselor and/or an attorney.

The Resolution Conference: What to Expect

The resolution conference is structured to create a level playing field. By law, the lender must send a representative who possesses the full and complete authority to negotiate and commit to a foreclosure avoidance measure on the spot. This requirement prevents common delay tactics.

Furthermore, before the conference, the lender must provide the homeowner with a comprehensive set of documents about their loan, including a full payment history and an itemized statement of arrears. This transparency allows the homeowner and their counselor to prepare effectively. The neutral facilitator ensures the discussion remains productive and focused on finding a resolution.

Potential Outcomes of the OFAP

While the program does not guarantee a specific outcome, it mandates a structured, good-faith negotiation. Potential resolutions include:

• A loan modification to make payments more affordable.
• A forbearance plan to temporarily pause or reduce payments.
• A repayment plan to catch up on past-due amounts over time.
• A "graceful exit," such as a short sale or a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure, which may include a small payment to assist with relocation.

The Most Important First Step: Connecting with a Housing Counselor

Regardless of the path a homeowner pursues, the single most important first step is to connect with a certified housing counselor. This free service is the central pillar of Oregon's foreclosure prevention strategy, providing homeowners with an expert advocate and a clear plan of action.

Why a Housing Counselor is Your Best Ally

Housing counselors are highly trained professionals who specialize in foreclosure prevention, credit counseling, and budgeting. They work for nonprofit agencies approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and their services are provided at no cost to the homeowner. A HUD-approved counselor's only objective is to help the homeowner achieve the best possible outcome.

What a HUD-Approved Counselor Does for You

A housing counselor provides comprehensive support that goes far beyond simple advice. Their key functions include:

• Comprehensive Financial Assessment: The counselor conducts a detailed review of the homeowner's complete financial picture to determine what level of mortgage payment is sustainable.
• Explanation of All Options: Based on the assessment, the counselor clearly explains all available foreclosure alternatives, empowering the homeowner to make an informed decision.
• Application Preparation and Submission: A counselor assists in gathering all necessary documents, completing the forms correctly, and submitting a strong, complete package to the mortgage servicer.
• Advocacy and Negotiation: Counselors can communicate and negotiate directly with the lender on the homeowner's behalf, ensuring the case receives proper attention.

The housing counseling network serves as a crucial entry point to the state's entire foreclosure prevention ecosystem. Counselors perform an essential triage function, directing homeowners to the right resource efficiently.

What to Expect and How to Prepare for Your First Meeting

A typical initial counseling session lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. To maximize the value of this meeting, homeowners should try to collect the following items in advance:

• The most recent mortgage statement.
• Proof of income for the last two months.
• The last two years of filed federal tax returns.
• Bank statements for the last two months (all pages).
• A list of all monthly household expenses.
• Statements for any other debts (car loans, credit cards, etc.).
• Any correspondence received from the mortgage lender.

How to Find a Certified Counselor in Oregon

Finding a free, reputable housing counselor is straightforward. Homeowners should use one of these official channels:

• Statewide Hub: Visit oregonhomeownerhelp.org or dial 211 from any phone.
• Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS): Call 800-453-5511 for assistance with scheduling an appointment.
• Federal Government Resources: The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and HUD both provide national, searchable databases of all approved housing counseling agencies.

Understanding Oregon's Foreclosure Landscape

To effectively navigate the available relief options, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of the legal framework for foreclosure in Oregon. The process a lender must follow determines the timeline and the specific intervention points available.

Two Paths to Foreclosure in Oregon

Foreclosure is the legal process by which a lender can seize and sell a property to recover the balance of a loan in default. In Oregon, lenders can pursue one of two distinct paths: nonjudicial foreclosure or judicial foreclosure.

Nonjudicial Foreclosure

This is the most common method used in Oregon because it is faster and less expensive. A nonjudicial foreclosure takes place entirely outside of the court system. The process is governed by a series of legally required notices, including a "Trustee's Notice of Sale," which must be sent at least 120 days before the scheduled auction.

The OFAP was designed specifically to insert a critical checkpoint into this nonjudicial timeline. It creates a mandatory "pause" for a structured, supervised negotiation, ensuring homeowners have a guaranteed opportunity to be heard.

Judicial Foreclosure

A judicial foreclosure is a more traditional process where the lender files a lawsuit against the homeowner. The entire process is managed through the court system, allowing the homeowner to raise legal defenses and have their case heard by a judge. If you receive any legal papers indicating a lawsuit has been filed, it is imperative to seek legal assistance from an attorney as soon as possible.

Protecting Yourself: How to Identify and Avoid Foreclosure Scams

Homeowners in financial distress are often targeted by predatory companies offering fraudulent "foreclosure rescue" services. The Oregon Department of Justice (DOJ) makes it a priority to protect homeowners from this type of fraud.

Red Flags: Warning Signs of a Scam

Be extremely cautious and recognize the warning signs of a potential scam. Be wary of any individual or company that:

• Guarantees to stop a foreclosure.
• Instructs you to stop making payments to your mortgage lender and pay them instead.
• Asks you to transfer or sign over the deed to your property.
• Charges significant upfront fees for services.
• Pressures you to sign documents immediately.
• Claims to have a special relationship with your lender or the government.

Protective Actions: How to Stay Safe

The best defense against scams is to be proactive and informed. Follow these protective measures:

• Work Only with Official, Approved Agencies: Only seek assistance from a HUD-approved housing counseling agency.
• Never Pay Upfront for Counseling: Free, high-quality assistance is available from nonprofit counselors.
• Communicate Directly with Your Lender: Use the contact information on your official mortgage statement.
• Get All Agreements in Writing: Never rely on verbal promises. Insist on a written contract that clearly details all services.

How to Report Suspected Fraud in Oregon

If you believe you have encountered a foreclosure rescue scam, it is vital to report it to the authorities.

• File an Online Complaint: Submit a report using the Oregon DOJ's official Consumer Complaint Form.
• Call the Consumer Protection Hotline: Speak directly with the DOJ by calling 1-877-877-9392.

Additional and Local Mortgage Relief Resources

While the OFAP and housing counselors are the primary statewide resources, some homeowners may be eligible for additional assistance through more localized or specific federal programs.

City of Portland Homeowner Foreclosure Prevention

The Portland Housing Bureau administers a program specifically for low-income residents within the city of Portland. This initiative provides access to foreclosure prevention counseling and may also offer direct financial assistance to help eligible homeowners make payments to their mortgage company, utility company, or tax collector.

Community in Action Programs

Community in Action, a nonprofit organization, has offered several programs to help homeowners. The availability of these programs can vary, so it is best to check with the organization directly. Past programs have included:

• Home Rescue Program: Provided up to one year of mortgage payments, with a maximum benefit of $20,000.
• Principal Reduction and Lien Extinguishment (PR/LE) Program: Offered up to $50,000 to reduce the principal balance of a mortgage for homeowners on a fixed income.
• Preservation Benefit: Provided up to $40,000 to fully reinstate a first-lien mortgage for homeowners who could afford their ongoing payments but had fallen behind.

USDA Section 504 Home Repair Program

For very-low-income homeowners living in eligible rural areas, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers the Section 504 Home Repair program. This program provides:

• Loans of up to $40,000 with a fixed 1% interest rate to repair or modernize a home.
• Grants of up to $10,000 for homeowners aged 62 or older to remove health and safety hazards.

By providing funds for critical repairs, this program can prevent homeowners from having to choose between making their mortgage payment and maintaining a safe living environment.

Summary of Oregon Mortgage Assistance Resources

The array of programs can be confusing. The table below provides a quick, at-a-glance summary of the primary mortgage relief and foreclosure prevention resources available to Oregon homeowners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Securing Boston healthcare for homeless individuals and families is a critical service provided by a network of dedicated organizations across the city. For those facing housing instability, accessing medical, dental, and behavioral health services can feel overwhelming, yet vital support is available.

This resource details the comprehensive care offered by the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP). It also explains how to connect with their services at numerous locations and outlines the broader support system designed to provide dignity, compassion, and a path toward healing for Boston's most vulnerable residents.

The Landscape of Homelessness and Health in Boston

The Scale of the Challenge: A City Under Pressure

The need for specialized healthcare for Boston's homeless population is a growing public health emergency. Greater Boston has the second-highest rate of homelessness among major U.S. cities, with an estimated 801 unhoused people for every 100,000 residents. This figure represents a dramatic 27% increase between 2022 and 2023 alone.

The crisis accelerated into the next year, with the total number of people experiencing homelessness in the area rising by an estimated 67% between January 2023 and January 2024. This surge has placed an immense strain on the city's support systems.

Boston's Unique Shelter System

Despite high rates of homelessness, Boston has one of the lowest rates of unsheltered individuals in the nation. In 2023, only about 6% of the region's unhoused population lacked shelter, compared to the national average of 35%. This is largely due to Massachusetts' long-standing "right to shelter" law, which has historically guaranteed shelter for families with children and pregnant women.

However, the recent surge in demand has forced the state to scale back this guarantee by implementing caps on shelter capacity. This policy shift creates a precarious situation that could lead to a significant increase in the number of people living without shelter, further increasing the demand for street-based medical outreach and emergency services.

The Human Dimensions of the Statistics

Behind these numbers are individuals and families facing profound challenges. In Greater Boston, families constitute nearly 70% of the unhoused population, a stark contrast to the 28% nationwide figure. This means children and youth under 18 experience the highest rates of homelessness of any age group.

The crisis also disproportionately impacts communities of color. Black residents, who make up only 8% of Greater Boston's population, account for over half of its unhoused population. The rate of homelessness for the Black population is approximately 17 times higher than for the white population, a disparity rooted in systemic factors like the housing affordability crisis and historical discrimination.

The Compounding Health Crisis of Being Unhoused

Living without stable housing is a devastating health condition in itself. It triggers and exacerbates a wide range of physical and mental illnesses, leading to a process of accelerated aging where chronic diseases appear prematurely. The daily struggle for survival often overshadows preventative care, allowing common illnesses to progress and injuries to fester.

Data from Boston reveals a stark health crisis among its unhoused population. Compared to housed residents, they report significantly higher rates of:

• Poor or fair general health
• Tobacco use (75% vs. 12%)
• Severe sleep deprivation (64% vs. 38%)

Studies of BHCHP's patient population show that 68% have a diagnosed mental illness, 60% have a substance use disorder, and nearly half—48%—suffer from both simultaneously. This complex web of health issues leads to crisis-driven use of the healthcare system, with more frequent hospitalizations and emergency department (ED) visits.

This data quantifies the profound health burden carried by Boston's unhoused population. The average annual healthcare cost for a BHCHP patient is more than three times that of an average Medicaid recipient, driven by a nearly seven-fold increase in hospital discharges and a four-fold increase in emergency room visits.

Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP): A Pillar of Community Health

A Mission of Justice, Not Charity

At the heart of Boston's response is the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), founded in 1985. BHCHP was established with the conviction that healthcare is a matter of social justice, not charity. Its mission is to ensure access to the highest quality health care for all individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

This justice-based model demands a proactive effort to dismantle barriers to access. BHCHP pioneered a "meet them where they are" approach, establishing a presence directly in shelters, soup kitchens, and on the streets. The program also acts as the "glue" connecting mainstream hospitals with shelters and social service providers, creating a seamless continuum of care.

An Integrated and Accessible Network

BHCHP has built a vast and deeply integrated service delivery network. The program serves nearly 10,000 individuals each year through a team of over 600 staff members across more than 30 clinic sites in Greater Boston.

This network ensures continuity of care by stretching across the community, with clinics embedded in over 80 shelters and day programs. BHCHP also integrates different levels of the healthcare system, operating clinics within major medical centers like Massachusetts General Hospital and Boston Medical Center to connect patients from street outreach to emergency rooms and post-hospital care.

A Legacy of Innovation

BHCHP has long been a national leader in developing new models of care for vulnerable populations. This legacy of innovation includes several key milestones:

• Electronic Medical Records (1996): BHCHP was the first homeless organization in the country to implement a computerized electronic medical record (EMR) system, ensuring continuity of care for a mobile population.
• Medical Respite (1985): The program pioneered the nation's first medical respite facility, a model of post-hospital care that has since been replicated in over 70 communities.

Core Medical and Support Services Available Through BHCHP

BHCHP provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to address the full spectrum of health needs among individuals and families experiencing homelessness.

Primary Medical Care: The Foundation of Health

High-quality primary medical care is the foundation of BHCHP's work. Services are comprehensive and cover all stages of life, including:

• Preventative Care: Vaccinations for children and adults, including flu shots and COVID-19 boosters.
• Chronic Disease Management: Screenings and ongoing treatment for conditions like diabetes, asthma, hypertension, and HIV.
• Acute Care: Treatment for injuries, infections, and other immediate health concerns.
• Specialized Screenings: Vision exams and cancer screenings.

Care is delivered in a way that actively dismantles barriers. Clinicians meet patients where they are—in a shelter, on the street, or at a walk-in clinic—to build long-term, trusting relationships. BHCHP also covers the costs of care and medications not covered by insurance, ensuring finances are never an obstacle to treatment.

Behavioral Health and Substance Use Support

Physical and mental well-being are inextricably linked, a reality central to BHCHP's model. The program provides fully integrated behavioral health services delivered by providers experienced in trauma-informed care. This "wrap around care" model addresses a patient's complex needs holistically.

Services include:

• Psychiatric Care: Assessment, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions.
• Trauma-Informed Counseling: Support for the psychological trauma often associated with homelessness.
• Office-Based Addiction Treatment (OBAT): A program offering Medication-Assisted Treatment for substance use disorders within a harm-reduction framework.

Essential Dental and Vision Services

Dental and vision care are critical to overall health and quality of life. BHCHP provides direct dental and oral health services and facilitates referrals to vision care specialists, ensuring these essential needs are met.

Case Management: Navigating the System

BHCHP's case managers serve as crucial guides and advocates, helping patients navigate the complex health and social service systems. They coordinate medical care, ensure appointments are kept, and provide a critical link to essential city and state social services. This includes assistance with applying for MassHealth and providing transportation vouchers to eliminate common barriers to care.

Medical Respite Care: A Safe Place to Heal

What is Medical Respite?

One of BHCHP's most significant innovations is its pioneering work in medical respite care. This model addresses a dangerous gap in the healthcare system: when a person experiencing homelessness is discharged from a hospital but is too sick to recover on the streets or in a shelter.

Medical respite provides a safe, clean, and supportive environment for individuals to recuperate after a hospital stay. This short-term residential program combines clinical oversight with case management, forming a therapeutic bridge from the hospital back to the community. This intervention interrupts the cycle of street-to-hospital-to-street, reduces hospital readmissions, and lowers overall healthcare costs.

BHCHP's Flagship Respite Programs

BHCHP is home to the nation's first and largest medical respite program, which has inspired dozens of similar programs across the country.

• Barbara McInnis House: This 104-bed facility is the cornerstone of BHCHP's respite services, providing 24/7 care to over 1,100 patients each year. Patients receive nursing care, meals, and integrated behavioral health and dental services.
• Stacy Kirkpatrick House: This smaller, 20-bed facility serves as a transitional step for patients who no longer require intensive 24/7 care but are not yet ready to return to a shelter.

Dignified End-of-Life Care

A profoundly compassionate service offered at the Barbara McInnis House is end-of-life care for terminally ill individuals. This ensures that people who have endured life on the street can spend their final days in a warm bed, safe and comfortable, and cared for by a compassionate team.

How to Access Care: A Practical Step-by-Step

For individuals experiencing homelessness or those assisting them, knowing how to get help is the most critical first step. BHCHP is committed to making this process as simple as possible.

Becoming a Patient at BHCHP

The program is open to anyone experiencing homelessness in the Greater Boston area.

• For New Patients: Call the new patient line at 857-654-1605 or visit the main clinic in person at Jean Yawkey Place, 780 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118.
• For Existing Patients After Hours: Call the after-hours line at 781-221-6565.

Key Clinic Locations and Partners

BHCHP operates at dozens of sites, with several key locations serving as major hubs for care.

• Main Clinic (Jean Yawkey Place): 780 Albany St, Boston, MA 02118.
• Pine Street Inn Men's Clinic: 444 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02118. Phone: 857-654-1850.
• St. Francis House Clinic (Marie L. Arky Medical Clinic): 39 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116. Phone: 857-654-1501.
• New England Center and Home for Veterans (NECHV): A dedicated clinic providing trauma-informed care for veterans.
• Shattuck Shelter Clinic: 170 Morton Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130. Phone: 617-983-0351.

What to Expect: Your Rights and Privacy

BHCHP operates with a strict commitment to patient rights and confidentiality to build trust.

• Privacy: BHCHP is legally obligated to protect the personal privacy and health information of every patient. Information is never shared without explicit written permission, a court order, or a subpoena.
• Immigration Status: Care is provided to everyone, regardless of immigration status. This information is only used to determine eligibility for benefits like MassHealth and is never shared with immigration enforcement.
• Insurance: For those without insurance, BHCHP staff provide direct assistance in applying for MassHealth to ensure care is covered.

The Broader Collaborative Network for Homeless Services in Boston

BHCHP is the medical anchor of a collaborative ecosystem of city, state, and non-profit organizations working together to address homelessness in Boston.

City and State-Level Coordination

Several key public entities coordinate the overall strategy and funding for the system.

• Mayor's Office of Housing (MOH): This city department is the lead agency for Boston's Continuum of Care (CoC), a regional body that coordinates housing and services funding for homeless individuals and families.
• Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC): This agency operates some of the city's largest 24/7 emergency shelters and coordinates vital public health initiatives, including harm reduction and behavioral health outreach.
• Boston Coordinated Care Hub: This consortium, led by BHCHP, brings together nine community-based organizations to deliver highly coordinated care to the most vulnerable individuals.

Essential Partners in Care and Shelter

A dedicated group of non-profit partners carries out the day-to-day work of serving Boston's unhoused population.

• Pine Street Inn: A cornerstone of the city's emergency response, Pine Street Inn provides over 500 shelter beds nightly and runs a street outreach program that operates 365 nights a year, offering food, clothing, and crucial healthcare referrals.
• St. Francis House: As New England's largest day shelter, St. Francis House provides essential services like meals, showers, and clothing to up to 500 individuals daily. It also hosts the on-site Marie L. Arky Medical Clinic, operated by BHCHP, making healthcare radically accessible.
• New England Center and Home for Veterans (NECHV): This partner focuses exclusively on the needs of veterans experiencing homelessness, hosting a dedicated BHCHP clinic to provide integrated, trauma-informed care.

This interconnected network creates a "no wrong door" approach to services. A person's journey to stability can begin anywhere within this system, with functional, integrated pathways guiding Boston's most vulnerable residents from crisis toward health and housing.

 Frequently Asked Questions

For Oklahoma homeowners facing financial hardship, finding a reliable mortgage relief program is a critical step toward securing their housing stability. While the primary state-wide resource, the Oklahoma Homeowner Assistance Fund, has recently changed its operational status, numerous other avenues for support remain available.

Navigating these options requires clear, current, and accurate information. The focus now shifts from a single, centralized fund to a broader landscape of federal, state, local, and tribal programs designed to prevent foreclosure and provide sustainable solutions for homeowners in distress.

Oklahoma Mortgage Relief: Current Status of the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF)

It is essential for homeowners to be aware of the current status of the state's primary relief initiative. The application portal for the Oklahoma Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF), administered by the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency (OHFA), officially closed to all new applications on Wednesday, March 20, 2024.

This step was taken to ensure that the available funds could be allocated effectively to the thousands of applications already received without overcommitting the program's resources.

Origins and Impact of the HAF Program

The HAF program was a significant lifeline for many Oklahomans. Established as part of the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, the initiative provided nearly $10 billion from the U.S. Department of the Treasury to states, U.S. Territories, and Tribal governments. The core purpose of these funds was to help homeowners who experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic prevent mortgage delinquencies, defaults, and foreclosures.

In Oklahoma, the program had a substantial impact. As of February 2024, HAF had granted $44.9 million in assistance to 2,811 approved applicants across 68 of the state's 77 counties. The average award per household was approximately $16,000, providing critical funds for mortgage reinstatement, principal reduction, and delinquent property taxes.

For HAF Applicants: Checking Your Application Status and What to Expect

For homeowners who successfully submitted an application before the March 20, 2024, deadline, the review process is ongoing. OHFA continues to evaluate all submitted applications, including those under appeal. Funding will be disbursed to eligible applicants until all program funds are expended, which may continue until the federal deadline of September 30, 2026.

How to Check Your Application Status

Applicants should actively monitor their application's progress through the official channels provided by OHFA.

• Online Portal: The most direct way to check a status is by logging into the HAF application portal at www.ohfa.org/haf.
• Phone Support: For direct assistance, applicants can contact the HAF Customer Service team at 833-208-2535 (Toll-Free) or 405-419-8202 (Local).
• Email Support: Inquiries can also be directed to the HAF team via email at hafapps@ohfa.org.

Understanding Application Statuses

The HAF portal uses several specific terms to describe an application's stage in the review process. Understanding these statuses can help manage expectations.

• Application Submitted: The application has been received and is in the queue for review.
• Under Specialist Review: The case is assigned to a HAF Specialist for initial eligibility review.
• More Info Needed – Instructions Sent to Email: The application is missing required information. The applicant must check their email for instructions.
• Communicating with Servicer: HAF is working with the mortgage servicer to confirm details. This is often the most time-consuming part of the process.
• Paid / Paid in Full: The application is approved, and payment has been sent to the mortgage servicer or other approved vendors.

Special Circumstances: Facing Foreclosure

If a homeowner submitted a HAF application by the deadline and has since received a foreclosure notice, they should immediately contact HAF Customer Service at 833-208-2535. Cases with a filed foreclosure are prioritized for review.

Immediate Steps for Homeowners Needing Mortgage Help Now

For homeowners who missed the HAF deadline or are newly facing financial distress, taking immediate action is crucial. The period after a missed payment is a critical window for finding solutions.

Step 1: Contact Your Mortgage Servicer Immediately

The single most important first step is to contact your mortgage servicer—the company that collects your payments. Foreclosure is a costly and lengthy process that servicers prefer to avoid, so they are often willing to work with homeowners who communicate their situation early.

Before calling, locate the servicer's phone number on your monthly statement. Be prepared to explain your financial hardship and provide basic details about your income and expenses. This conversation begins the formal "loss mitigation" process, which explores options to avoid foreclosure.

Step 2: Connect with a Free, HUD-Approved Housing Counselor

You do not have to navigate this complex process alone. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sponsors a network of non-profit housing counseling agencies that provide expert guidance at no cost. A HUD-approved counselor is a certified professional who acts as your advocate.

A housing counselor can help by:

• Creating a personalized action plan.
• Explaining loss mitigation options in clear, understandable terms.
• Helping organize and complete the necessary paperwork.
• Participating in three-way calls with you and your servicer to facilitate negotiations.

Immediate, 24/7 access to this support is available through the Homeowner's HOPE Hotline at 888-995-HOPE (4673). You can also find a local agency through the official HUD Counselor Locator tool online.

Step 3: Gather Your Financial Documents

Gathering financial documents in advance will significantly speed up the assistance process. The required paperwork is consistent across most programs.

• Recent mortgage statements.
• Proof of income for all household members (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s).
• A government-issued photo ID and Social Security card.
• A written statement explaining the financial hardship.
• Proof of primary residence, such as a recent utility bill.

Foreclosure Prevention Programs and Resources in Oklahoma

A network of federal, state, and non-profit programs exists to provide targeted assistance and foreclosure prevention services to Oklahoma homeowners.

Federal Mortgage Assistance Programs

Many mortgages are backed by the federal government, which provides access to specialized assistance programs.

• FHA Loans (HUD): The HUD National Servicing Center (NSC), with offices in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, helps homeowners with FHA-insured loans avoid foreclosure. Contact the FHA Resource Center at   1-800-CALLFHA (1-800-225-5342).
• VA Loans: The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers robust support for eligible veterans, service members, and surviving spouses. The VA can intervene with the mortgage servicer to explore options. Information is available on the VA's housing assistance website.
• Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac: These government-sponsored enterprises own a large percentage of conventional mortgages. Homeowners can use their official loan look-up tools to see if their loan is owned by one of them and explore available assistance.

State and Non-Profit Legal and Counseling Assistance

Several Oklahoma-based organizations provide invaluable legal support and advocacy.

• Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc.: This non-profit law firm provides free civil legal assistance to eligible low-income Oklahomans, including foreclosure defense and help with loan modifications.  
• Neighborhood Housing Services Oklahoma (NHSOKLA): As a HUD-certified agency, NHSOKLA offers confidential foreclosure prevention counseling and acts as an advocate for homeowners. They can be reached at (405) 231-HOME.

Local and Tribal Mortgage Assistance Opportunities

Assistance in Oklahoma is often geographically or demographically targeted. Understanding these local programs is essential, as they represent vital resources that might otherwise be overlooked.

County-Specific Programs

Some counties operate their own emergency assistance programs through local community action agencies.

• Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City (CAA of OKC): This agency provides an Emergency Rent/Mortgage Assistance program for residents of Oklahoma and Canadian counties. Eligibility is based on income and a documented emergency. Contact their office at   405-232-0199 to inquire about fund availability.

Tribal Nation Programs

Sovereign Tribal Nations within Oklahoma received their own direct allocations of HAF money and operate distinct programs for their citizens. These programs may still be accepting applications.

• Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation (HACN): The Cherokee Nation offers a HAF program to assist eligible citizens who own a home within the reservation boundaries. Contact HACN at   918-456-5482 for more information.
• Housing Authority of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma (HASNOK): HASNOK administers a HAF program for eligible Seminole Nation tribal homeowners and other Native American families in their service area. For details, contact the Housing Authority at   (405) 257-6604.

Understanding Your Loss Mitigation Options

"Loss mitigation" refers to the specific tools used to avoid foreclosure. These options generally fall into two categories: home retention and non-retention.

Retention Options (Staying in Your Home)

These options are designed to help you catch up on payments and remain in your property.

• Forbearance: A temporary agreement to pause or reduce payments for a specific period. Missed amounts must be repaid later.
• Repayment Plan: Allows you to catch up on delinquent payments over an extended period by adding a portion of the past-due amount to your regular monthly payment.
• Deferment/Partial Claim: Takes the total missed payments and sets them aside as a non-interest-bearing balance due at the end of the loan term.
• Loan Modification: A permanent change to your loan terms to make monthly payments more affordable, such as reducing the interest rate or extending the repayment term.

Non-Retention Options (Leaving Your Home Without Foreclosure)

If keeping the home is not sustainable, these options provide a way to transition out of the property while avoiding the severe credit damage of a foreclosure.

• Short Sale: The lender agrees to let you sell the property for less than the total amount owed on the mortgage.
• Deed-in-Lieu of Foreclosure: You voluntarily transfer the property title back to the lender in exchange for a release from the mortgage obligation.

Warning: Avoiding Foreclosure Rescue Scams

Desperate situations can make homeowners vulnerable to predatory scams. It is critical to recognize the warning signs.

• Anyone asking for a fee in advance to work with your lender.
• Guarantees that they can stop a foreclosure.
• Instructions to stop making mortgage payments and pay them instead.
• Pressure to sign over the deed or sign paperwork you don't understand.

Legitimate help is available for free from HUD-approved housing counseling agencies. You should never pay for foreclosure prevention services.

The Role of Bankruptcy in Preventing Foreclosure

When foreclosure is imminent and other options have been exhausted, bankruptcy can be a powerful legal tool to save a home. This decision has significant financial consequences and should not be taken lightly.

Introducing Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

For homeowners, the most relevant form of bankruptcy is Chapter 13, a "reorganization" bankruptcy. Its primary benefit is the  automatic stay. The moment a Chapter 13 petition is filed, a legal injunction immediately halts all collection actions, including any pending foreclosure sale.

How Chapter 13 Works for Homeowners

Under Chapter 13, a homeowner proposes a three-to-five-year repayment plan to the court. This plan allows them to catch up on past-due mortgage payments over time. During the plan, the homeowner must also resume making their regular, ongoing mortgage payments to the servicer.

Crucial Caveats and Recommendations

Bankruptcy is a complex legal proceeding with long-term effects on credit. It is not a do-it-yourself process. Any homeowner considering this path should seek a consultation with a qualified Oklahoma bankruptcy attorney. For income-eligible individuals, Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma may be able to provide free legal representation.

Frequently Asked Questions

For homeowners seeking an Ohio mortgage relief program, understanding the current landscape of available assistance is the first step toward financial stability. The state's primary initiative, the Save the Dream Ohio program, was created to help those impacted by economic hardship.

It is essential to know that as of October 31, 2023, the Mortgage Assistance component of this program is no longer accepting new applications. While this direct mortgage aid has concluded, significant help remains available. The program's Utility Assistance Plus (UAP) component is still active, offering financial support for utility bills, property taxes, and other housing costs. A robust network of free, professional resources, including U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-approved housing counselors, also provides a clear path forward.

The Current Status of the Save the Dream Ohio Program

The Save the Dream Ohio program was established with a $280 million allocation from the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF), part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Administered by the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA), the initiative was designed with two distinct components to address different aspects of housing insecurity.

Mortgage Assistance Component: Applications Are Closed

The Mortgage Assistance component was designed to provide substantial relief by making payments directly to mortgage servicers on behalf of eligible Ohioans. This aid could be used to bring a delinquent first mortgage current and cover up to six months of future payments, with a maximum of $25,000 per household.

To qualify, homeowners needed to demonstrate a COVID-19-related financial hardship and meet specific income thresholds. The program was a critical lifeline for over 18,000 Ohio homeowners. However, due to overwhelming demand, OHFA officially closed the application portal on October 31, 2023. No new applications for direct mortgage payment assistance are being accepted through this program.

Utility Assistance Plus (UAP) Program: Help Is Still Available

While mortgage-specific aid has ended, the Utility Assistance Plus (UAP) program remains an active and vital resource for eligible homeowners. This program focuses on alleviating the burden of other essential housing-related costs that can contribute to financial instability and the risk of foreclosure.

What is the Utility Assistance Plus Program?

The UAP program is administered on behalf of OHFA by a statewide network of local non-profit organizations, primarily Community Action Agencies. Homeowners apply through the designated agency serving their county, not directly to OHFA. This local approach ensures residents connect with partners in their communities who are familiar with local needs and resources.

What Types of Assistance Can You Receive?

The UAP program provides up to $10,000 in total assistance per qualifying household. Payments are made directly to the service providers, not the homeowner.

Covered expenses include:

• Utility Bills: Payments for natural gas, electric, water, and sewer.
• Bulk Fuel: Assistance for propane, fuel oil, coal, wood, and other bulk energy sources.
• Internet Service: Payments for broadband internet.
• Property Charges: Financial aid for delinquent, non-escrowed property taxes and fees owed to homeowner or condominium associations.
• Other Costs: Coverage for trash removal and associated disconnection or reconnection fees.

Who is Eligible for UAP?

To qualify for the UAP program, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Be a homeowner and occupy the property as your primary residence in Ohio.
2. Have experienced a financial hardship related to the COVID-19 pandemic after January 21, 2020. This can include a loss of income or an increase in living expenses.
3. Meet the program's annual household income limits, which are at or below 150% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

The income limits are adjusted for household size. The following table outlines the maximum annual household income to qualify:

How to Apply for the UAP Program

The application process for UAP is handled at the local level.

1. Find Your Local Agency: Use the Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies (OACAA) official directory to find the agency that serves your county. The directory can be found at https://oacaa.org/find-an-agency/.
2. Contact the Agency: Reach out to your local agency to inquire about the UAP program, confirm your eligibility, and learn about their specific application process.
3. Prepare Documentation: You will likely need to provide documentation to support your application, such as proof of income, copies of past-due bills, and a form attesting to your financial hardship.

Your Most Critical Next Step for Mortgage Help: Contact a Free Housing Counselor

With the state's direct mortgage relief program closed, the single most important action a homeowner facing payment difficulties can take is to contact a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. These services are provided by certified professionals at no cost to the homeowner and are designed to provide expert, unbiased guidance.

Why a HUD-Approved Housing Counselor is Your Best Resource

HUD-approved housing counselors are federally certified professionals who are required to act in your best interest. They work for non-profit agencies, not lenders, and their services are funded by government and private grants, which is why they are always free. This is a crucial distinction from for-profit "foreclosure rescue" companies that often charge high fees for services that are available for free.

You do not need to be behind on your payments to seek help. If you are worried about your future ability to pay, a counselor can help you prepare and explore options before you become delinquent.

How a Housing Counselor Can Help You

A certified housing counselor is a financial guide and an expert advocate. They are trained to:

• Provide a Confidential Financial Assessment: The counselor will work with you to create a detailed household budget to get a clear picture of your income and expenses.
• Act as an Expert Liaison with Your Lender: A counselor can speak with your lender's loss mitigation department on your behalf, ensuring your case is heard.
• Explain All Available Options: They will demystify complex terminology and clearly explain the pros and cons of each potential solution, such as forbearance or loan modification.
• Assist with Applications: A counselor will guide you through the application process to ensure it is completed correctly and submitted with all necessary documentation.
• Navigate the Foreclosure Process: If foreclosure proceedings have begun, a counselor can explain the legal timeline in Ohio, clarify your rights, and help you understand what to expect.

How to Find a HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agency in Ohio

Finding a certified and reputable housing counselor is straightforward using official government resources.

• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Use HUD's online search portal to find approved agencies by state or zip code at https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor.
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): The CFPB also offers a reliable search tool at consumerfinance.gov/mortgage help.
• Toll-Free Hotline: For a referral over the phone, call HUD's housing counseling hotline at 800-569-4287.

Proven Strategies to Avoid Foreclosure in Ohio

Beyond seeking professional counseling, there are established strategies that can help homeowners resolve mortgage delinquency. These options, known as loss mitigation, are programs offered by mortgage servicers to help borrowers through financial hardship.

The First Rule: Communicate with Your Mortgage Servicer

The moment you anticipate having trouble making a mortgage payment, contact your lender or mortgage servicer. Lenders are generally motivated to avoid foreclosure, as it is a costly process. Early and honest communication opens the door to potential solutions.

When you call, ask to speak with the "Loss Mitigation Department". This is the specialized team responsible for working with borrowers to find alternatives to foreclosure. Be prepared to explain your financial situation and have recent income documents available.

Understanding Your Loss Mitigation Options

A housing counselor can help you determine which loss mitigation option is best suited for your circumstances. The most common options are detailed below.

Critical Warning: Avoid Foreclosure Rescue Scams

Homeowners in financial distress are often targeted by fraudulent companies. It is imperative to remember that legitimate foreclosure assistance is always free. The Ohio Attorney General's office warns consumers to be wary of any company that engages in these deceptive practices.

Be on alert for these common red flags of a foreclosure rescue scam:

• They guarantee they can stop a foreclosure.
• They demand a large upfront fee before providing any services.
• They instruct you to stop paying your mortgage servicer and pay them instead.
• They pressure you to sign paperwork you haven't had time to read or don't fully understand.

If you encounter a company you believe is a scam, you can report it to the Ohio Attorney General's Help Center at 800-282-0515.

Key Ohio Housing and Financial Resources

Several official state and federal organizations serve as a safe harbor of reliable information and support for Ohioans.

• Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA): As the state's leading affordable housing authority, OHFA administers a wide range of programs. Their website, https://ohiohome.org/, is a central resource for state housing information.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): The HUD website provides extensive resources on homeownership and avoiding foreclosure. The portal for Ohio-specific information can be found at https://www.hud.gov/states/ohio.
• Ohio Legal Services: For low-income homeowners who need legal assistance with a foreclosure action, Ohio Legal Services can provide free legal help. They can be reached at 866-LAW-OHIO (529-6446).
• 2-1-1 Ohio: This is a free, confidential referral service that connects people to local health and human services, including utility assistance and food banks. You can access this service by dialing 2-1-1 from any phone.

 Frequently Asked Questions

Organizations serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness are a cornerstone of our nation's social fabric. This critical mission, however, relies on a complex funding landscape. Federal grants are the financial backbone for most homeless assistance systems, providing essential resources for everything from street outreach and emergency shelter to permanent supportive housing and clinical services.

This report offers an expert-level guide to navigating this intricate ecosystem. It is designed for the leaders, program managers, and grant writers on the front lines of this work. The goal is to demystify the federal funding process, illuminate strategic connections between programs, and provide a practical toolkit for securing and managing these vital resources.

A Coordinated Federal Response

The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness (USICH) coordinates the federal government's commitment to ending homelessness, orchestrating the efforts of 19 federal agencies. This response is primarily executed through three key departments:

• The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): As the lead agency, HUD provides the largest and most foundational grants for shelter and housing solutions.
• The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS): Through agencies like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), HHS funds services addressing health, mental health, and substance use challenges that often intersect with homelessness.
• The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): The VA runs a robust set of targeted programs designed to meet the unique needs of veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

The Importance of the Continuum of Care (CoC)

A fundamental concept for any organization seeking federal funds is that grants are not typically awarded directly from Washington, D.C. Instead, funding flows through a community-based ecosystem. The most important local planning body is the Continuum of Care (CoC), a regional group that coordinates a community's policies, strategies, and application process for most federal homelessness funding.

This structure reveals a deliberate federal strategy that compels local collaboration. HUD's major grant programs require coordination with the local CoC, and specialized programs like HUD-VASH are built on partnerships between local Public Housing Authorities and VA Medical Centers. A successful organization strategically positions itself within its local CoC framework, aligning its programs with community-wide priorities.

At-a-Glance Comparison of Major Federal Homeless Assistance Grants

The Cornerstone Funders and Their Programs

A. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Building the Foundation of Housing Stability

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is the principal federal agency tasked with addressing homelessness. Its programs form the bedrock of nearly every community's response, providing essential funding for a spectrum of housing interventions.

1. In-Depth Analysis: The Continuum of Care (CoC) Program

The Continuum of Care (CoC) Program is HUD's flagship competitive grant program. It is the primary vehicle for organizing and delivering housing and services to meet the specific needs of people experiencing homelessness within a community. The CoC program promotes a strategic, data-driven system of care rather than a collection of disconnected projects.

The CoC as a System

A Continuum of Care is a local or regional planning body that coordinates a comprehensive housing and services system. This body is a coalition of stakeholders, including nonprofit providers, government agencies, and individuals with lived experience.

Core responsibilities of a CoC include:

• Operating the CoC: Establishing a governance structure to guide its work.
• System Planning: Developing a community-wide plan, conducting an annual Point-in-Time (PIT) count of individuals experiencing homelessness, and holding regular meetings.
• Coordinated Entry: Operating a centralized process for assessing needs and referring individuals to the most appropriate housing and services.
• Homeless Management Information System (HMIS): Managing a local HMIS, a secure database used to collect client-level data.

The Annual Competition (NOFO)

The CoC program is highly competitive, with funding awarded annually through a national Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO). Individual organizations do not apply directly to HUD. Instead, the local CoC submits a single, consolidated application on behalf of the entire community. This local competition is a critical gatekeeping step, as organizations must first meet the local CoC's deadlines and performance benchmarks.

How the NOFO Drives National Policy

The annual CoC NOFO is HUD's primary lever for directing national homelessness policy. By assigning points in the scoring criteria for specific project types or populations, HUD can steer the behavior of thousands of local systems without passing new laws. This mechanism has driven major policy shifts, most notably the nationwide adoption of the Housing First model. For an applicant, this means a project must be strategically aligned with the current federal direction as articulated in that year's NOFO.

Eligible Program Components

The CoC program funds projects under five primary components, allowing communities to build a comprehensive system:

• Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH): Long-term, community-based housing with voluntary supportive services for homeless persons with disabilities. PSH is a cornerstone of the "Housing First" approach.
• Rapid Re-Housing (RRH): Short- to medium-term rental assistance and services to move individuals and families into permanent housing as quickly as possible.
• Transitional Housing (TH): Temporary housing with supportive services for up to 24 months to prepare participants for permanent housing.
• Supportive Services Only (SSO): Funds supportive services for homeless individuals not residing in housing operated by the grantee, including the operation of the CoC's coordinated entry system.
• HMIS: Dedicated funds to cover the costs of operating the local Homeless Management Information System.

2. In-Depth Analysis: Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program

The Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) program is a critical HUD formula grant, meaning funds are allocated based on a predetermined formula. Its purpose is to serve as a community's first line of defense by supporting street outreach, emergency shelters, and providing immediate assistance to people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.

The Flow of Funds

The ESG funding stream is indirect for most providers. HUD allocates funds directly to "entitlement communities" (metropolitan cities, urban counties) and to states. These entities may use the funds for their own programs or sub-grant them to local non-profit organizations. This means the application process for ESG funds is typically with a city, county, or state department.

The Five Eligible Components

The ESG program is structured around five core components:

• Street Outreach: Funds essential services for engaging unsheltered individuals, including case management, emergency health services, and transportation. 
• Emergency Shelter: Covers costs for shelter renovation, essential services for residents (e.g., case management, employment assistance), and shelter operations (e.g., rent, utilities, food).
• Homelessness Prevention: Provides rental assistance and stabilization services to households at imminent risk of becoming homeless.
• Rapid Re-Housing: Offers rental assistance and services to help individuals and families currently experiencing homelessness move quickly into permanent housing.
• HMIS/Data Collection: A portion of funds can be used to pay for participation in the local HMIS designated by the CoC.

ESG and CoC: A Symbiotic Relationship

The ESG and CoC programs are designed to function as two halves of a whole. ESG provides the flexible, immediate resources for crisis response—the "front door" of the system. The CoC program, in contrast, funds the more intensive, long-term housing solutions that serve as the "exits" from homelessness. This demonstrates that the programs are sequential and complementary partners in a single process.

3. Other Key HUD Housing Resources

Several other HUD programs are indispensable tools for increasing housing stability.

• Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV / Section 8): The federal government's largest program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford housing in the private market.
• Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV): Authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act, this program provided 70,000 vouchers specifically to assist individuals and families who are homeless or fleeing domestic violence.
• HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME): The largest federal block grant to state and local governments designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income households.

B. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) & SAMHSA: Integrating Health, Recovery, and Housing

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), primarily through its Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), funds programs that target the critical intersection of housing instability, mental illness, and substance use disorders.

1. In-Depth Analysis: Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness (PATH)

The PATH program is a SAMHSA formula grant that supports services for adults with a Serious Mental Illness (SMI) or a co-occurring SMI and Substance Use Disorder (SUD), who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Eligibility and Application

To receive PATH-funded services, an individual must be an adult with an SMI or co-occurring disorder and be homeless or at imminent risk of losing housing. Organizations seeking PATH funding apply to their designated state agency, not directly to SAMHSA. The program requires a non-federal match of at least $1 for every $3 of federal funds received.

Allowable Services

PATH funds a wide array of services with an emphasis on outreach and engagement. Allowable services include:

• Outreach and Engagement
• Screening and Diagnostic Treatment
• Case Management
• Habilitation and Rehabilitation Services
• Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment
• Limited Housing Services (e.g., security deposits, one-time rental payments), which cannot exceed 20% of the provider's total grant award.

2. In-Depth Analysis: Grants for the Benefit of Homeless Individuals (GBHI)

The GBHI program is a competitive grant from SAMHSA designed to expand treatment and recovery support services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness with a SUD or co-occurring disorders.

Eligibility and Application

Eligible applicants are community-based public and private non-profit entities. State governments are not eligible. The application process is rigorous and requires registration in multiple federal systems (SAM.gov, Grants.gov, eRA Commons), which can take up to six weeks to complete.

Supported Activities

The GBHI program supports three primary categories of activities:

1. Direct Behavioral Health Services: Includes outreach, treatment, case management, and peer support.
2. Coordination of Housing and Services: Focuses on building local infrastructure to better integrate behavioral health treatment with housing.
3. Benefits Enrollment: Supports dedicated efforts to connect clients with health insurance, Medicaid, and other mainstream benefits like SSI/SSDI and SNAP.

3. Specialized HHS Programs

HHS also administers key programs targeting specific populations.

• Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) Programs: Administered by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), these programs provide services specifically for youth and young adults through three main grants: the Basic Center Program (BCP), the Transitional Living Program (TLP), and the Street Outreach Program (SOP).
• Health Care for the Homeless (HCH) Program: Administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), this program provides grant funding to community health centers to deliver comprehensive primary care, mental health, and substance use disorder treatment to people experiencing homelessness.

C. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): A Targeted Mission to End Veteran Homelessness

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has developed one of the most comprehensive and effective systems for addressing homelessness among a specific population, often in close collaboration with HUD and community partners.

1. In-Depth Analysis: The HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) Program

The HUD-VASH program is the flagship federal initiative for homeless veterans. It combines HUD's Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) rental assistance with the VA's comprehensive case management and clinical services. This integrated model is a cornerstone of the national strategy to end veteran homelessness.

How It Works

The program operates through a partnership between a local Public Housing Authority (PHA), which administers the rental voucher, and the local VA Medical Center (VAMC), which provides wraparound supportive services. This collaboration creates a unified system of care focused on ending a veteran's homelessness permanently.

Roles and Eligibility

• Veterans: To be eligible, a veteran must be eligible for VA healthcare, be experiencing homelessness, and be determined by the VA to need case management. The VA is the sole entity for determining eligibility and making referrals.
• Public Housing Authorities (PHAs): PHAs with a strong partnership with their local VAMC can apply to HUD to receive an allocation of VASH vouchers.

A Proven Model of Success

The remarkable success in reducing veteran homelessness is a direct result of the HUD-VASH model, which proves that combining a housing subsidy with intensive clinical support can produce population-level results. It serves as a powerful proof of concept for the effectiveness of the Permanent Supportive Housing model.

2. In-Depth Analysis: Grant and Per Diem (GPD) Program

The VA's Grant and Per Diem (GPD) program is a competitive grant that funds community-based agencies to provide transitional housing and supportive services to veterans experiencing homelessness. It is the VA's largest transitional housing program.

Funding Models

The GPD program offers several different types of grants:

• Per Diem Grants: Provides a per diem payment to organizations to help cover the operational costs of their transitional housing programs.
• Capital Grants: Intermittently offered to help with the costs of construction, renovation, or acquisition of facilities.
• Special Need Grants: Targeted to organizations serving specific veteran populations with high needs.
• Case Management Grants: Provides funding for case managers who help veterans maintain stability in permanent housing after exiting transitional programs.

Application Process

Organizations can only apply for GPD funding when the VA releases a specific Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) on Grants.gov. Eligible applicants include non-profits and state, local, and tribal government agencies.

3. In-Depth Analysis: Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Program

The SSVF program is a VA competitive grant that funds private non-profit organizations to provide services to very low-income veteran families who are either homeless or at imminent risk of losing their housing.

Focus on Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing

The core of the SSVF program is its dual focus on preventing homelessness and rapidly resolving it when it occurs.

• Homelessness Prevention: For families at risk of eviction, SSVF grantees can provide services and temporary financial assistance to help them remain in their current housing.
• Rapid Re-Housing: For families already experiencing homelessness, grantees provide assistance to help them quickly locate and move into new permanent housing.

Supportive Services

SSVF grants fund a comprehensive array of supportive services, including case management, assistance in obtaining VA and other public benefits, and Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) for costs like rent arrears, security deposits, and utility payments.

The Practitioner's Toolkit for Securing and Managing Federal Funds

A. Mastering the Application Process: From Identification to Submission

Successfully navigating the federal grant application process requires a strategic, organized, and persistent approach.

Finding Opportunities

The central hub for all federal competitive grant opportunities is Grants.gov. However, a comprehensive search strategy must also include:

• Monitoring Agency Websites: Regularly check the dedicated grant pages of HUD, SAMHSA, and the VA.
• State and Local Portals: Identify and monitor the websites of state and local agencies that administer formula grants like ESG and PATH.
• Building Networks: Engage with your local CoC and other community partners to learn about upcoming funding opportunities.

Deconstructing the NOFO

The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is the rulebook for the competition. Create a comprehensive checklist of every requirement and pay meticulous attention to:

• Eligibility: Ensure your organization meets the specific criteria.
• Deadlines: Note all deadlines and plan to submit at least two to three business days early.
• Formatting and Page Limits: Adhere strictly to all specified formatting rules.
• Scoring Criteria: Structure your narrative to directly address each scoring criterion, using the funder's own terminology.

Grant Writing Best Practices

A successful grant proposal is a persuasive document that combines a compelling narrative with hard evidence.

• Be Realistic and Clear: Propose a project with goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART).
• Know Your Audience (The Reviewer): Write with the reviewer in mind. Avoid jargon, use clear headings, and make the document easy to scan.
• Tell a Compelling, Data-Driven Story: Use local and national data to establish the problem. Then, explain your proposed solution, supporting your claims with both quantitative data and qualitative evidence.
• Justify the Budget: The budget must align perfectly with your project narrative. Every cost must be reasonable, allowable, and directly justified by your proposed activities.

B. Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Why Grant Applications Fail

Many strong projects go unfunded due to avoidable errors in the application process.

Procedural Errors

These are technical mistakes that can lead to disqualification.

• Missing Deadlines: This is the most common and unforgiving error, including preliminary deadlines for Letters of Intent (LOIs). 
• Incomplete Registrations: Federal grants require registration in multiple online portals (e.g., SAM.gov, Grants.gov), which can take weeks to process.
• Ignoring Guidelines: Failing to adhere to specific formatting requirements can lead to an application being rejected without review.
• Budgetary Miscalculations: Errors in the budget or failing to meet a required cost match can signal a lack of attention to detail.

Strategic Errors

These are deeper flaws in the proposal's conception or presentation.

• Mission Drift: Proposing a project that is a poor fit for the organization's core mission and expertise.  
• Unclear Objectives and Outcomes: Failing to clearly articulate what the project will accomplish and how success will be measured.
• Lack of Capacity: Failing to demonstrate that the organization has the necessary infrastructure, stable business model, and qualified staff to support the project.
• Poor Funder Research and Fit: Submitting a generic proposal that does not demonstrate a deep understanding of the specific funder's priorities.

C. Post-Award Excellence: Best Practices in Federal Grant Management

Securing a federal grant is only the beginning. Effective grant management ensures compliance, maximizes impact, and builds a positive reputation with funders.

The Foundation of Compliance: 2 CFR 200

For any organization receiving federal funding, the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards, known as the Uniform Guidance or 2 CFR 200, is the single most important regulatory document. It provides the standardized, government-wide framework for managing federal grants, and adherence is non-negotiable.

Building Internal Systems for Success

Robust internal systems are the bedrock of compliant grant management.

• Define Roles and Responsibilities: Create a clear internal structure that defines the roles of key players from leadership, fundraising, program, and finance staff.
• Establish Strong Financial Controls: Use separate accounting codes for each grant, implement a system of checks and balances for all expenses, and maintain meticulous records.
• Invest in the Right Tools: Dedicated software for accounting, project management, and a central database or CRM are wise investments for tracking grant-related data, deadlines, and documents.

Executing, Monitoring, and Reporting

Diligent execution and transparent reporting are key to maintaining a funder's trust.

• Track Programmatic Performance: Consistently track progress toward the goals and objectives outlined in your proposal.
• Monitor the Budget: Regularly conduct a "budget vs. actual" analysis to monitor spending rates and identify potential issues early.
• Submit Timely and Accurate Reports: Submitting required financial and programmatic reports completely, accurately, and on time is a fundamental requirement.
• Prepare for Audits: Always operate as if you will be audited by maintaining well-organized, comprehensive, and easily accessible documentation.

Conclusion: The Evolving Landscape of Federal Homelessness Policy

A Shifting Policy Landscape

The federal government's investment in programs to address homelessness remains the single most important factor in a community's ability to provide shelter and services. Recent years have seen significant resource infusions, such as the Emergency Housing Vouchers from the American Rescue Plan Act. However, these investments have occurred against a backdrop of rising homelessness nationwide, which has reached its highest point since tracking began.

For nearly two decades, federal policy has been anchored in the evidence-based "Housing First" model. This approach prioritizes immediate access to permanent housing without preconditions, followed by voluntary supportive services. The success of programs like HUD-VASH has provided powerful validation for this model.

The Rise of "Treatment-First"

Recent policy signals, however, indicate a potential pivot away from this consensus. An emerging framework challenges the core tenets of Housing First by suggesting a shift toward "treatment-first" models. This could involve conditioning housing assistance on participation in behavioral health treatment and prioritizing funding for jurisdictions that enforce laws against public camping.

This creates a potential collision course for service providers. The federal government, through the scoring criteria in competitive grants, may begin to reward program models that contradict the low-barrier principles of Housing First. This is not merely a philosophical debate; it is a strategic crisis with profound financial implications for non-profit organizations.

A Strategy for Organizational Resilience

In this complex and shifting landscape, organizational resilience will depend on a multi-faceted strategy.

• Advocacy: It is more important than ever for providers and local leaders to engage in advocacy, communicating the on-the-ground impact of policy changes to federal agencies and elected officials.
• Funding Diversification: Organizations must proactively diversify their revenue streams by cultivating relationships with private foundations, corporate funders, and individual donors to build a more resilient financial base.
• Data and Evidence: The ability to prove program effectiveness with high-quality, outcome-oriented data is the most powerful tool an organization possesses. Rigorous data collection and evaluation are essential for making a compelling case for support to any funder.
• Strategic Adaptability: The organizations that will thrive will be those that remain steadfast in their mission, are deeply engaged in their communities, and are rigorously data-driven, while also demonstrating the agility to adapt to a changing policy environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Facing financial hardship that puts your home at risk is an incredibly stressful experience. For homeowners in North Dakota struggling with mortgage payments, the primary North Dakota mortgage relief program is ND Help for Homeowners. This state-administered initiative provides a crucial financial lifeline to promote housing stability.

Knowing your options is the first step toward regaining financial control. This resource provides a complete overview of the financial relief and foreclosure prevention programs available to North Dakota residents, including state, federal, and local support systems designed to help you stay in your home.

ND Help for Homeowners: The State's Primary Relief Program

The ND Help for Homeowners program is the cornerstone of mortgage assistance in the state. It was created to address the needs of homeowners facing the risk of losing their homes due to financial difficulties, offering a direct route to stability.

Program Overview and Administration

ND Help for Homeowners is North Dakota's version of the national Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF). The HAF is a federal program established by the American Rescue Plan Act to prevent mortgage delinquencies, defaults, and foreclosures across the country. The program's goal is to stop the loss of utilities or home energy services that could lead to displacement.

The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is responsible for managing and distributing these funds. While the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) helped develop the statewide plan, HHS administers the program due to its experience with other public assistance initiatives.

Critical Update: Program Status and Changes

It is vital for homeowners to have the most current information. As of November 10, 2023, the ND Homeowner Payment Assistance Program (HPA) component was discontinued. This specific part of the program provided up to $6,000 for future mortgage payments.

While this forward-looking assistance has ended, the broader ND Help for Homeowners program remains active. It continues to provide crucial financial support for past-due expenses, prioritizing homeowners who are already delinquent and in immediate danger of foreclosure or utility disconnection.

Who is Eligible for Assistance?

To qualify for aid, applicants must meet specific criteria related to their property, income, and the nature of their financial hardship.

Homeowner and Property Requirements:

• You must own and occupy the property as your primary residence.
• Eligible properties include single-family homes, condominiums, and manufactured homes. One-to-four-unit properties are also eligible as long as one unit is owner-occupied.

Financial Hardship and Income Requirements:

• Applicants must have experienced a financial hardship after January 21, 2020, related to the COVID-19 pandemic. This can include a loss of income or a significant increase in living expenses.
• Household income must generally be at or below 100% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
• For the mortgage reinstatement program, households may qualify with an income of up to 150% of the AMI, expanding eligibility for this critical aid.

Types of Financial Relief Available

The program covers a variety of delinquent housing-related expenses to help homeowners catch up. All payments are made directly to the mortgage servicer, utility company, or other relevant entity.  

Available assistance includes:

• Mortgage Reinstatement: Funds to pay past-due mortgage principal and interest to bring your loan current and stop foreclosure.
• Delinquent Housing Expenses: Help with other past-due costs like property taxes, homeowner's insurance, and HOA fees.
• Past-Due Utility Bills: Funds for delinquent payments for electricity, home energy, water, and garbage services.
• Home Repair Program: Grants for essential repairs that affect the home's insurability or accessibility for homeowners who faced a pandemic-related hardship.

The program has a total maximum assistance cap of $40,000 per household across all components. The home repair portion is capped at $30,000.

How to Apply for ND Help for Homeowners

The application process is managed by the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services. Homeowners can apply online through the official state portal.

• Online Application: To apply, visit the official ND Help for Homeowners website at https://www.applyforhelp.nd.gov/housing.
• Application Support: For help with your application, you can contact a specialist directly.
• Phone: (701) 328-1907 or 711 (TTY).  
• Email: haf@nd.gov.

Other Housing Support from the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA)

While HHS manages the primary mortgage relief program, the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) is another vital resource for the state's homeowners. It is important to understand its specific role.

Clarifying NDHFA's Role: Homebuyer Assistance vs. Mortgage Relief

NDHFA's main mission is to make housing affordable by offering financing to purchase a home. As a self-supporting state agency, it is not designed to distribute emergency grant aid. NDHFA explicitly states that it does not provide emergency assistance.

NDHFA's primary programs are for homebuyers and include:

• First Home: Provides low-cost financing for first-time homebuyers.
• Home Access: Offers similar benefits to single parents, veterans, and households with elderly or disabled members.
• Start and DCA Programs: Provide down payment and closing cost assistance.
• North Dakota Roots: An option for homebuyers with incomes above the limits for other programs.

Programs for Existing Homeowners

Although NDHFA does not offer emergency relief, it has several programs that can help existing homeowners with property improvements.

• Major Home Improvement Program: Provides affordable loans to refinance a current mortgage and rehabilitate the home.
• Rehab Accessibility Program (RAP): Offers grants to lower-income individuals with physical disabilities for renovations like installing ramps or walk-in showers.
• Helping HAND Program: Provides grants for essential home repairs, such as roof replacement, to ensure the property is safe.

Guidance for Homeowners with an NDHFA Mortgage

If your mortgage is already financed by NDHFA and you are struggling with payments, you should contact their loan servicing department immediately to discuss your options.

• Phone: (800) 292-8621 or (701) 328-8080.
• Email: hfaservicing@nd.gov.

Federal and Specialized Mortgage Assistance Programs

Beyond state programs, federal and specialized initiatives offer additional support for specific groups of North Dakota homeowners.

USDA Rural Development Programs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers programs for homeowners in eligible rural areas. These can be a vital resource for those living outside major cities.

• Section 504 Home Repair Program: This program provides loans up to $40,000 for home repairs and grants up to $10,000 for elderly homeowners (age 62+) to remove health and safety hazards.
• Section 502 Direct Loan Program: This program helps low-income applicants in rural areas purchase homes by providing payment assistance to reduce their mortgage payments.

Homeowners can check property eligibility on the official USDA Eligibility Site.

Housing Support for North Dakota Veterans

Veterans facing housing instability have dedicated resources. The North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs connects former service members with financial assistance programs for mortgages, rent, and utilities.

Available resources include:

• VA Home Loans
• American Legion Temporary Financial Assistance
• Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Emergency Assistance
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Financial Grants
• Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF).

Essential Foreclosure Prevention Resources

In addition to applying for programs, there are proactive steps every homeowner facing financial difficulty should take to protect their home.

The First Step: Contacting Your Mortgage Servicer

The most critical action is to contact your mortgage servicer immediately if you are struggling with payments. Early communication can unlock solutions before the situation escalates to foreclosure.

Servicers offer loss mitigation options to help borrowers avoid foreclosure, which may include:

• Forbearance: A temporary pause or reduction in your mortgage payments.
• Loan Modification: A permanent change to your loan terms to make payments more affordable.
• Repayment Plan: An agreement to catch up on missed payments over time.

The Power of Professional Guidance: HUD-Approved Housing Counseling

Navigating financial hardship can be overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) supports a network of counseling agencies that provide free or low-cost expert advice.

A HUD-approved housing counselor can:

• Help you understand your state's foreclosure process.
• Review your finances and create a budget.
• Explain your options and help you communicate with your servicer.
• Assist you in applying for programs like ND Help for Homeowners.

You can find a HUD-approved agency through the official search tools from HUD or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Local agencies in North Dakota include the Community Action Partnership in Minot and the Southeastern North Dakota Community Action Agency (SENDCAA) in Fargo. 

Know Your Rights: North Dakota Foreclosure Timeline

Understanding the legal process empowers you to act in a timely manner. In North Dakota, lenders must file a lawsuit to foreclose. Before they can do so, they are required to send a pre-foreclosure notice.

This notice gives the borrower a 30-day window to pay the past-due amount and "cure the default," avoiding the foreclosure action entirely. This 30-day period is a critical opportunity to contact your servicer, apply for assistance, and connect with a housing counselor.

Charting a Path to Housing Stability

Facing the potential loss of a home is a daunting challenge, but North Dakota homeowners have multiple avenues for support. The key to navigating this period is prompt, informed action.

The state's primary resource for immediate distress is the ND Help for Homeowners program, which provides grants for past-due mortgage, utility, and property tax payments. Additional support is available through the NDHFA, the USDA, and the ND Department of Veterans Affairs.

Regardless of which program fits your situation, two steps are universal: communicate early with your mortgage servicer and connect with a free, HUD-approved housing counselor. These resources exist to help you achieve financial recovery and maintain the stability of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

For homeowners facing financial hardship, the primary state-level mortgage relief program, the NC Homeowner Assistance Fund (NCHAF), is no longer accepting new applications. The program officially closed to new applicants in November 2023.

While this development may be concerning, it is critical to know that North Carolina continues to offer a strong network of alternative resources. A variety of active foreclosure prevention programs, financial assistance options, and free, expert counseling services are available to help homeowners navigate their financial challenges and secure their housing.

A Look Back: The NC Homeowner Assistance Fund (NCHAF)

To provide context for homeowners who may still be searching for this specific program, it is useful to understand its history. The NCHAF was a temporary emergency measure created to address the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Purpose: The fund was established to prevent mortgage delinquencies, defaults, and foreclosures for homeowners experiencing financial difficulties related to the pandemic.
• Funding: It was supported by a $273 million federal grant from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and administered by the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA).
• Assistance Provided: The NCHAF offered eligible households up to $40,000 in aid. These funds covered past-due mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA fees. Payments were made directly to the service provider, not the homeowner.
• Impact: The program was a vital lifeline, successfully assisting over 18,000 North Carolina homeowners in keeping their homes during a period of unprecedented economic uncertainty.

Despite its success, the program faced some administrative hurdles, including initial payment processing delays. The closure of such a high-profile fund has created an information gap, sometimes leading homeowners to predatory companies that charge high fees for services available for free. The following sections provide a clear path to legitimate and currently available assistance.

Immediate Steps to Prevent Foreclosure in North Carolina

If you are falling behind on mortgage payments or anticipate a future struggle, taking immediate action is the most effective way to prevent foreclosure. Delaying significantly reduces your available options. The two most critical first steps are communicating with your mortgage servicer and seeking expert guidance from a housing counselor.

Step 1: Contact Your Mortgage Servicer

Your mortgage servicer—the company you send payments to—should be your first call. It is essential to open all mail from your lender and communicate your financial situation honestly and early. Many lenders have internal loss mitigation programs designed to help borrowers through temporary hardship.

Common solutions include:

• Loan Modification: A permanent change to your loan terms, such as lowering the interest rate or extending the repayment period, to make your monthly payment more affordable.
• Forbearance Agreement: A temporary pause or reduction in your mortgage payments for a limited time. Missed payments must be repaid at the end of the forbearance period.
• Repayment Plan: An agreement to pay your standard monthly mortgage amount plus an additional sum each month to gradually catch up on what you owe.

Step 2: Access Free, Professional Housing Counseling

Before or during your communication with a servicer, connect with a HUD-approved housing counselor. These certified professionals work for non-profit agencies and provide their services for free, acting as an expert advocate on your behalf.

A housing counselor will:

• Confidentially review your finances.
• Explain all available options and assistance programs.
• Negotiate directly with your mortgage servicer to find the best solution.
• Help you prepare and submit applications for financial aid.
• Refer you to free legal services if your situation requires it.

You can find a certified counselor through these official channels:

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): Use the online locator tool at consumerfinance.gov/find-a-housing-counselor/.
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): Call the hotline at 1-800-569-4287.
• State Home Foreclosure Prevention Project: Call 1-888-442-8188 to connect with a North Carolina counseling agency.

Active Foreclosure Prevention and Financial Assistance Programs

North Carolina's support system for homeowners is a network of specialized services. Eligibility often depends on factors like income, location, and the cause of the financial hardship. A housing counselor can help you identify the most suitable programs for your situation.

State Home Foreclosure Prevention Project (SHFPP)

This is North Carolina's primary initiative for homeowners at risk of foreclosure. It is a counseling-focused project administered by the NC Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) in partnership with the NC Commissioner of Banks.

The SHFPP provides free, expert foreclosure prevention counseling to any North Carolina homeowner. Counselors work with you to assess your finances and negotiate a "workout" plan with your mortgage servicer to make payments manageable. For low-income homeowners, the project also serves as a gateway to free legal services. To get started, call the NCHFA's dedicated call center at 1-888-442-8188.

Note on a Legacy Program: The NC Foreclosure Prevention Fund

You may see information about the NC Foreclosure Prevention Fund, an earlier program funded by the U.S. Treasury's Hardest Hit Fund®. This fund offered zero-interest, deferred loans to help unemployed homeowners. While this specific loan is no longer active, the counseling infrastructure it helped build remains the foundation of the state's current efforts through the SHFPP.

Emergency Assistance for Families in Crisis

For families facing an immediate financial emergency, the NC Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS) offers short-term aid through its Work First program. This program can provide funds to pay for housing and utilities to prevent eviction or disconnection.

To qualify, a family must include a child, have a household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, and provide proof of identity and citizenship. Applications must be submitted at your local County Department of Social Services office.

Disaster-Specific Mortgage Relief

Some housing aid in North Carolina is tied to specific, federally declared disasters. You are only eligible if your financial hardship is a direct result of such an event.

• FEMA Individual Assistance: Following a presidential disaster declaration, FEMA may provide grants for temporary housing and essential home repairs not covered by insurance. Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• SBA Disaster Loans: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest, long-term disaster loans to homeowners and renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged property.
• Re Build NC Homeownership Assistance Program (HAP): This state program provides down payment assistance to homebuyers in counties impacted by Hurricanes Florence and Matthew. The program's application window opens and closes based on funding availability.

Targeted Assistance for Seniors and Home Repairs

Several programs focus on helping specific populations maintain their homes and prevent small repair issues from becoming major financial burdens.

• Housing and Home Improvement Assistance (NC DHHS): Available to North Carolinians aged 60 and older, this program provides up to $7,000 per year for minor home repairs and accessibility improvements.
• USDA Rural Development Home Repair Loans and Grants: The Section 504 Home Repair program assists very-low-income homeowners in eligible rural areas with loans and grants to repair, improve, or remove health and safety hazards from their homes.

Legal Support and Homeowner Rights

When financial negotiations are not enough, understanding your legal rights and accessing professional legal help is critical.

Accessing Free Legal Services

For homeowners who cannot afford an attorney, Legal Aid of North Carolina is the state's primary provider of free legal services in civil cases for low-income residents. Its Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Project (MFP) is a specialized team dedicated to foreclosure defense.

Services are generally available to households with incomes at or below 125% of the federal poverty level. To apply for help, call the statewide helpline at 1-866-219-LANC (5262).

Understanding the North Carolina Foreclosure Process

North Carolina primarily uses a non-judicial foreclosure process, which is generally faster than a judicial one. The process typically begins when the lender files a notice of hearing with the clerk of court.

A key feature of state law is the 10-day "upset bid" period that follows the foreclosure auction. During this window, the sale is not yet final, and another party can place a higher bid. This period also represents a final opportunity for the homeowner to redeem the property by paying off the total debt owed. This 10-day clock highlights the importance of acting quickly.

Local and City-Specific Homeowner Programs

In addition to state and federal programs, many municipal and county governments offer their own housing assistance. Homeowners should always investigate what is available in their immediate community.

Spotlight on Municipal Assistance

Many local programs focus on helping first-time homebuyers, but some may offer emergency grants or repair programs. Check with your local housing department for available aid.

Examples of city-run programs include:

• Greensboro: The Low-Income Homeowner Assistance Program provides a reimbursement to eligible homeowners to offset property tax increases.
• Raleigh: The Homebuyer Assistance Program offers zero-interest, deferred loans of up to $45,000 (or up to $65,000 in certain areas) to help with down payment and closing costs.
• Other Cities: Major cities like Charlotte and Durham run similar initiatives, indicating a statewide trend of municipal investment in housing.

How to Find Local Resources

Identifying local aid is easier with centralized resources.

• NC Community Action Association: This is a network of 34 local agencies that often provide housing and energy assistance.
• Local Department of Social Services (DSS): This is the entry point for state-administered programs like Emergency Assistance.
• NC 211: This free, confidential, 24/7 referral service from the United Way of North Carolina can connect you to a wide array of local resources. Simply dial 2-1-1.

Essential Resources and Contact Directory

This directory consolidates the most critical contacts for North Carolina homeowners seeking mortgage relief and foreclosure prevention assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions