The City of Lockport has announced that it will host a Foreclosure Prevention Resources Awareness Workshop on Thursday, Feb. 21, from 6-7 p.m. in the Common Council Chambers. The workshop is part of the city’s efforts made available through a grant received from the New York State Attorney General’s office to help clear blight and prevent “zombie” properties, or poorly maintained, vacant, bank-owned properties that are the result of bank foreclosures.
“Far too many communities throughout New York are impacted by zombie homes,” said Attorney General Letitia James. “Our office has focused on providing municipalities with the tools and programs needed to help revitalize their neighborhoods and I am pleased that Lockport has put them to good use. I look forward to the progress Lockport continues to make with the support of these funds.”
The workshop 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,” Lockport Mayor Michelle Roman said. “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 and 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. Free confidential one-on-one financial coaching sessions are also offered by CCCS. Interested individuals can call 716.712.2060 to set up an appointment. These coaching sessions take place in Lockport at the Dale Association, located at 33 Ontario St. in Lockport.