Tips for the Solar Eclipse Click Here

CCCS & City of Lockport Partner to Offer Foreclosure Prevention Workshop on July 29

Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS) is partnering with the City of Lockport to hold an event focused on foreclosure prevention Monday, July 29, 2019 from 1-4 p.m. at One Locks Plaza in Lockport.

Therese Melchiorre, HUD certified housing counselor with Consumer Credit Counseling Service, will be available to meet confidentially with individual homeowners to:

  • Review mortgage affordability and mortgage payment options
  • Explain next steps in applying for the appropriate option
  • Provide local community resources that may help reduce expenses and provide further support
  • Provide a free credit report and credit score

The event is part of the city’s efforts made available through a grant received from the New York State Attorney General’s office to clear blight and prevent “zombie” properties, or poorly maintained, vacant, bank-owned properties that are the result of bank foreclosures.

The Zombie Prevention Initiative through the attorney general’s office empowers New York communities to overcome the devastating effects of the foreclosure crisis and housing downturn and provides cities and towns with tools to help keep families in their homes. Funding through the AG’s office allows cities like Lockport to revitalize neighborhoods and prevent blighted homes.

The event will be led by Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS), a nonprofit organization that helps individuals and families with their credit and other complex financial issues. CCCS is recognized by the attorney general’s office as offering qualified housing counseling in Niagara County.

“No matter how much you plan and prepare, life happens. Whether you have suffered a medical issue that added on expenses, you lost a job or any manner of other challenges that can pile up your bills,” said Lockport Mayor Michelle Roman. “It is a stressful time; especially when your mortgage payment is due and you just don’t have the funds to cover it. Supports are out there for you and this workshop will help you learn about those resources to help you through the tough times.”

“It is critical that homeowners understand that there are advocates here that can assist them if they fall on hard times, and are having trouble making their mortgage payments,” said Noelle Carter, president & CEO of CCCS. “The options available to struggling homeowners can be confusing, and complex, so working with an experienced housing counselor who is looking out for the homeowner’s best interest, and assisting them with communicating with the mortgage servicer can be invaluable.”

The event is free and open to the public. Call 716.712.2060 to register or download a flier with more information on the city’s website.