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Single Mom Saves Home with Help from GLCU Foundation’s Housing and Financial Counselor
CommunityJune 12, 2024
A series of unfortunate events began snowballing for Christine V. during the COVID-19 pandemic: she lost her job, her kids contracted COVID, and she was unable to find work. It wasn’t long before she found herself more than $33,000 behind on her mortgage payments.
On the brink of losing her home to foreclosure, Christine recalls being “extremely overwhelmed and discouraged.” She knew she had to do something to keep a roof over her family’s head because, as she said, “that’s all we have.”
Determined to save their family home, Christine sought help. Through the Illinois Housing and Development Authority (IHDA), she discovered that Great Lakes Credit Union (GLCU) is one of only five credit unions in the nation to offer a HUD-approved housing and financial counseling program. She reached out to the GLCU Foundation’s financial and housing counseling team and was referred to Jessie Flores, one of the GLCU Foundation’s six housing and financial counselors.
Jessie discovered Christine’s mortgage lender had started foreclosure proceedings. She worked with Christine to apply for a grant through the Illinois Emergency Homeowner Assistance Fund (ILHAF).
Meanwhile, Jessie helped Christine review her expenses and determine the status of her financial situation. Not only was Christine’s mortgage severely in default, but she was also at risk of having her water shut off. Jessie immediately helped Christine create an action plan.
The two worked together tirelessly for two months, during which time Jessie provided much-needed direction, resources, and support to Christine. Christine applied for assistance with her water bill through Kendall Grundy Community Action. She applied for the SNAP program, as well as the Nicor and ComEd financial assistance programs to help bring her utilities current.
Their persistence paid off. During a follow-up call, Christine was happy to report she was approved for all the programs she applied for! Her mortgage is current, and her utility bills are affordable now.
Bad things happen to good people all the time. But it’s especially sweet when there’s a happy ending. Christine’s decision to act quickly and seek help saved her home, and she said she’s grateful to the GLCU Foundation for helping her turn her financial situation around for the better.
“I’m so thankful to Jessie and the GLCU Foundation! I really appreciate all the support they have given me,” Christine said.
If you or someone you know is in need of free financial and housing counseling assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a free screening.
The information in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. You should consult a licensed financial advisor before investing in any financial product or service.