Lorna* had lived in her home for fourteen years. She was the primary support person for her disabled brother, Sam*. But, in 2022, Lorna lost her job, which was devasting. Due to the job loss, she missed several mortgage payments. Lorna's mortgage company started the foreclosure process shortly after those first few missed payments.
Lorna made every attempt to keep her and Sam's home. She tried to take money out of her 401K to pay off the mortgage balance, but was met with roadblocks at every point in the process. Just before her home was set to be sold in a foreclosure auction, Lorna was referred to United Way agency, Legal Aid Society (LAS). The LAS attorney quickly stepped in and began advocating on Lorna's behalf. He worked with her mortgage company to get the foreclosure sale canceled. The attorney then helped Lorna gather the appropriate paperwork and helped her apply for the Homeowners Assistance Fund (HAF). With help from Legal Aid Society, Lorna was approved for almost $13,000 in Homeowner Assistance Funds. The amount paid off the past due balance on her mortgage and allowed her to keep her home! This process also allowed her to maintain the same low monthly mortgage payment she previously had. Lorna and her brother remain in their home; Lorna has secured another job; and they are moving forward with their lives.
Lorna’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when neighbors, agencies, and community support come together. Through the United Way of Sumner County network, families like Lorna’s can access the resources they need in times of crisis and find hope for the future. Together, we’re strengthening lives and building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
*Names changed for confidentiality.