Written By: Helena Jones
A few years into the Covid-19 pandemic, many people struggle to maintain the enormous responsibility of homeownership during a time when thousands of people are being laid off.
One of those people was Michael R., a single father caring for his two teenage sons while also balancing a career and burdensome mortgage. This Maryland family seemed to be doing well until Michael was laid off from multiple jobs during the height of the pandemic. Setbacks like these can really leave a family in a stressful and sometimes hopeless situation, but Michael persevered and went looking for help.
Not knowing exactly where to turn, Michael secured another job and then reached out to Neighborhood Housing Services of Baltimore for assistance with his mortgage payments and forbearance plan. From there, he was able to work with a housing counselor and apply for the Homeowner Assistance Fund of the State of Maryland. Within a few months, Michael was awarded a grant covering the mortgage arrears and a zero-interest loan, which is not due until the first mortgage loan is paid. Michael may even receive more assistance with payment reassessment or loan forgiveness at the end of his forbearance plan.
Neighborhood Housing Services of Baltimore takes the frustration and exhaustion out of situations like Michael’s by providing a plan with multiple options. Sudden life changes that affect homeowners can really make life feel unclear and worrisome, but having sources for help can calm those fears. Instead of worrying about how his family will be able to live comfortably, Michael can focus on helping his son transition into college. After all, those special moments can be easy to miss when a parent is focused on survival.
Neighborhood Housing Services of Baltimore is committed to providing tools for homeowners to feel secure in their decisions for their family and that is an excellent way to give back to your neighborhood.
Neighborhood Housing Services of Baltimore
Removing Barriers to Sustainable Homeownership Since 1974.