The Housing Partnership Network has received an award of $7.4 million that will initially support the foreclosure mitigation counseling efforts of 24 Network member organizations operating in 18 states. Over the course of the year, it is expected that additional member groups will be funded, extending the geographic coverage. With this grant, Network members will provide assistance to 20,000 families.

The funding was provided by the National Foreclosure Mitigation Program, which was approved by Congress as part of the FY2008 federal budget, and is administered by NeighborWorks America.

“This funding will be a vital resource for our members as they help families throughout the country deal with the foreclosure crisis,” said Network CEO Tom Bledsoe. “In addition to paying for direct counseling, the grant will also provide much-needed resources for marketing, outreach, technology and other program-related support.”

Network members are among the highest capacity producers in the counseling industry, with close connections to their local markets, and strong partnerships with local government, financial institutions, and other nonprofit organizations that allow them to leverage a wide range of services for clients in foreclosure, such as emergency assistance funds, refinance products, legal services, and other social supports. The funds will allow Network members to double their capacity.