The effects of foreclosures on a community can be devastating. Foreclosed properties often become abandoned homes which are used for crime and ultimately reduce property values. “Foreclosure is a serious problem in our community. We must address the problem head on” says Sylvia Poitier, Vice Mayor of Deerfield Beach. The city in association with Freedom Debt Management recognized the problem and sought to make a change. They have joined forces to coordinate with lenders, public agencies, attorneys, and local nonprofit organizations to host a Housing and Foreclosure Prevention Workshop Saturday, October 18, 2008. The event will be held at Deerfield Beach Middle School, 701 SE 6th Avenue, Deerfield Beach, FL from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Eastern. “Education is the key” says Darish Still, Director of Education for Freedom Debt Management. “When people understand what their rights and options are, they’re more inclined to make wise financial decisions. We want people to know that they can choose to remain in their homes”.
Initially charged as a “foreclosure only” event, Anthony Jurasinski, President of Freedom Debt Management argued, “Preventing foreclosure is only part of the problem, we must begin to revive the community by placing families in the increasing amount of vacant homes in the area”. Community leaders agreed and expanded the focus of the event to include the first time home buyer. Debra Chatman, Deerfield Beach Community Development Coordinator says “Although we want to put people into these homes, we do not want it to be revolving door”. Her view is that any effort to sell these homes should be combined with housing counseling and financial education to ensure that qualified borrowers are placed into affordable housing. “That is what this event is about”, says Jurasinski.
These workshops are becoming more popular as local governments see their positive effects. “Building a better community starts with building the people in the community”, says Still. At this event attendees will receive information on budgeting, credit, assistance programs, foreclosure intervention and the mortgage qualification process. We encourage all Palm Beach and Broward County residents to come out and participate.
For additional information on this event or other Freedom Debt Management efforts, contact Darish Still.
Darish K. Still, Director of Education
Freedom Debt Management, Inc.
561-362-3011
http://www.freedomdm.org
