Dennis.Harrison@jaxlegalaid.org

Facing overwhelming financial challenges, “Emma,” not her real name, and her husband, both self-employed, struggled to keep up with their bills after the birth of their son. Transitioning from a two-income household to just one, combined with the breakdown of their semi-truck, which was their primary income source, left them falling behind on their mortgage. Despite their tireless efforts to catch up, the mounting debt left them feeling as though they were sinking further into financial distress. As hope dwindled, Emma shared her mortgage troubles with a Jacksonville Area Legal Aid attorney, who referred her to HUD Housing Counselor Carmen. From their first conversation, Emma felt an overwhelming sense of relief. Carmen carefully explained the process, outlining the necessary steps, and reassured Emma that they could navigate through the crisis together. Carmen was proactive, always keeping Emma updated and following up regularly. When Emma mortgage company became difficult to work with, Carmen immediately stepped in to assist. Through a conference call that lasted an hour, Carmen worked alongside Emma to secure the necessary documents to access the City of Jacksonville’s Foreclosure Intervention Program funds that would help her get caught up on her payments. Within just two weeks of submitting everything, Emma’s mortgage was current again.

“Cynthia” came to Jacksonville Area Legal Aid after receiving a notice from her landlord demanding rent and threatening her with eviction. Soon thereafter, the landlord filed an eviction lawsuit. Cynthia believed at the time that she had paid what she owed. She had rented her unit with a Housing Choice Voucher, which covered part of the rent. Due to delays by the local housing authority, the portion of the rent she owed was unclear for several months. Once she received the correct information, she had to catch up, which she thought she had done. But in fact, she had underpaid.