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Keeping the American Dream alive, one home at a time
Posted: 03.14.2009 at 11:44 PM
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Foreclosures have been disastrous to homeowners across the country.  And in Columbia, homeowners are facing the same grim reality.  But help has arrived.  The Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America has set up shop at the Carolina Coliseum to assist homeowners looking to keep their American dream alive.

"They actually helped," said homeowner Evonne Hanson.  "It's not a million dollars but it feels like a million dollars."

Hanson represents the thousands of folks who showed up at the Carolina Coliseum, hoping to save their home.

"I bought the American dream," said Hanson.  "I got a divorce and loss of income.  And I was still trying to live the American dream on just one income."

Her story is unfortunately like many troubled homeowners.

"We don't have an income to continue the house payments because my husband is receiving disability and I am unemployed at this point in time," said homeowner Maxine Dottin.

"I lost my job last fall," said another homeowner Mike Hicks.  " And I'm currently employed but my income has changed."

The Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America, or NACA, has been helping those in need.  NACA has provided counseling sessions to see how they can restructure the homeowners mortgage.  After the counseling session folks are then on their way to a solution, where million dollar dreams are being saved.

Homeowners are keeping their homes at lower rates.

"I went from a seven-and-a half, to a five-percent rate," said Hanson.  "And that $200 a month is definitely going to help."

It not only helps Hanson, it gives her a sense of security back.

"I'm sleeping better at night," said Hanson.  "I mean I'm feeling better about keeping that home.  Staying in my home."

The "Save the Dream" tour runs all weekend, into Monday at the Carolina Coliseum.  At least 7,000 people are expected to attend. 

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