Grant to save Niles residents from foreclosure

STAFF REPORT

NILES — A number of Niles residents may save their homes from foreclosure with the help of a state grant.

Earlier this month, the city received a $25,000 Community Housing Improvement Program grant to assist a total of eight households in danger of foreclosure due to delinquent mortgage payments, property taxes or back utility bills.

Youngstown-based CT Consultants will oversee the disbursement of the grant after an application process through Catholic Charities Regional Agency.

George Zokle of CT Consultants said applicants must meet requirements to receive a maximum of $3,000 over a three-month period.

In addition to proof of need, residents must own only one house, in which they live. To be considered, residents also must earn 80 percent of the current median income or less — $41,700 for a family of four or $29,000 for a single homeowner.

An important part of the grant, Zokle added, is the accountability of the recipient.

“If we think that they’re not going to be able to continue making [mortgage] payments after the assistance, we won’t assist them,” he said.

CCRA will provide mandatory credit counseling along with the screening of participants.

For more information and to apply, call the program at (330) 393-4254.