Minneapolis-based wholesale lender Homecomings Financial is offering mortgage relief, counseling, and other assistance to more than 14,000 households in the 53 counties and parishes that have been declared federal disaster relief areas in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama."We're prepared to do whatever we can to lessen the burden for our customers as they cope with this devastating situation," said Bob Appel, managing director. Customers in the hurricane disaster area are directed to call a toll-free hotline at 800-206-2901 to speak with a specially trained agent who is prepared to provide information on relief efforts and support agencies, including the American Red Cross, governmental agencies, and shelters in their areas. In addition, these agents can offer financial relief if necessary to customers who are experiencing financial hardships due to the hurricane and its aftermath. Homeowners should also call 888-995-HOPE to speak with counselors who can provide free foreclosure prevention counseling, a service offered through the Homeownership Preservation Foundation. Homecomings Financial and its parent company, GMAC-RFC, which is owned by Residential Capital Corp., plan to match hurricane relief donations made by its 4,700 employees, up to $1,000,000.
