Saturday, March 13, 2010

Mid-Shore Maryland Sees 812 Foreclosures in 2009

For homeowners, the thought of losing their home and all the hard work they have put into maintaining it can be paralyzing. But residents should know that there are programs available to help them keep there home, and that early action is the best prevention against foreclosure.

In 2009, there were 812 foreclosures filed in circuit court on the Mid-Shore- 219 in Queen Anne's County, 192 in kent, 154 in caroline, 146 in Talbot and 101 in Dorchester, according to Sandy Brown, executive director of Mid-Shore Pro Bono. (Mid-Shore Pro Bono is a new non-profit organization that provides free legal assistance to low-income families).

As soon as a homeowner sees they are going to be unable to make payments on their mortgage, contact me or Exit Gold Realty to speak to a Default Resolution Specialist. You don't have to lose your home.

CASA-What is this?

CASA of Queen Anne's & kent Counties screens, trains, and supervises volunteers to advocate in the best interests of abused, neglected, and abandoned children with the goal of ensuring they are placed in safe, permanent homes. Once trained, the volunteers are sworn in as officers of the court and become Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). CASA is part of a nationwide organization that was started in 1977. Since that time, more than 2 million children in the foster care system throughout the United States have been helped by the organization.



What does a CASA do?

A CASA serves as an officer of the court and acts as the eyes and ears of the judge.

Forms a unique relationship with the child and meets with all those who are involved in the child's life.

Provides information to assist the judge in making well-informed decisions.

Helps to ensure that the child receives appropriate services and feels safe, comfortable,and secure.

Is sometimes the only consistent supporting person in a foster child's life.



I just recently heard of this organization and had an opportunity to hear some of the children describe their plight of abuse and neglect, and how, with the aid of CASA now have loving supportive families. I was truly moved, not only by the children, but of the volunteers who act as voices for the children. I plan on becoming a part of this organization because I want to make a difference, not only in the real estate world, but to make a difference in the life of a local child...our future.