In this time of high foreclosures and job loss, there are many companies out there that are victimizing the already overwhelmed in need with help in their housing situations. I know of two dependable legitimate agencies that are above the rest.

Fair Housing is very important to Houlihan Lawrence Real Estate. They have Ann Seligsohn of WRO "Westchester Residential Opportunities" visit each of the offices over the course of the year and every year. The meetings with Ann are mandatory and if we miss ours we have to make it up in another office. She comes to discuss and review our role as Real Estate Agents and Brokers in regards to Fair Housing Rights whether they are in keeping or in violation of Federal, State or County Fair Housing Laws. She tells us of recent cases in order to illustrate the fact that it is a very HUMAN and ongoing situation they are dealing with. She tries to right the many wrongs that are out there either out of ignorance or lack of education and yes, even caring about our fellow man. She also brings a quiz of situations that are read aloud and we have to decide whether we feel it is in violation or not and at what level. Then we discuss and clarify the laws in each situation. We also work on helpful dialog in dealing with these situations.

A new mention was made this year of the fact that WRO, a not for profit organization, is now helping people facing possible foreclosure stay in their homes. They have 5 full time counselors from all over Westchester County that are familiar with the municipalities and banks.

WRO is a HUD-certified Housing Counseling agency. They are holding "Mortgage Default Orientation Sessions" three times each Tuesday in their White Plains office. They are held to help you understand the options and assistance they provide.

Westchester Residential Opportunities (www.wroinc.org)
470 Mamaroneck Avenue
White Plains, NY 10605
914-428-4507
housinghelp@wroinc.org

The Bridge Fund Of New York (www.thebridgefund.org)
"…One of the strongest weapons against homelessness that Westchester County has – The Bridge Fund."

Another Agency that I have known for the past several years is The Bridge Fund of New York. They now have a Westchester Division. They primarily help people facing evection from their apartments but as my Mother used to say - "Same story, different Address." They also handle foreclosures. It is still about housing whether it be for a family or individual whether you rent or own. These are people that make too much money to apply for Federal Assistance and they usually need the money for the short term and most of them eventually pay it back. It really is a shining star of an agency. There are wonderful case studies on their website.

Last year they:

• prevented 292 evictions
• helped 726 people
• issued 265 loans & grants
• handled 2,175 requests for assistance

Their Motto is:" Preventing Homelessness Among the Working Poor"

Posted By: Karen Benvin Ransom