Habitat for Humanity working on 8 Peoria homes

In a few months, Michel’le Dinkins will move into her first home — one she has helped construct, nail by nail.

The 22-year-old single mom, a part-time student and full-time St. Mary’s Food Bank employee, will get the key in February to one of eight Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona projects under way in Peoria.

The faith-based non-profit builds and renovates homes and sells them to low-income families at affordable prices with no-interest mortgages. The organization owns three vacant lots in Peoria not yet under construction and has built a new home and renovated seven others this year.

Read more: Habitat for Humanity working on 8 Peoria homes

Habitat for Humanity working on 8 Peoria homes

In a few months, Michel’le Dinkins will move into her first home — one she has helped construct, nail by nail.

The 22-year-old single mom, a part-time student and full-time St. Mary’s Food Bank employee, will get the key in February to one of eight Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona projects under way in Peoria.

The faith-based non-profit builds and renovates homes and sells them to low-income families at affordable prices with no-interest mortgages. The organization owns three vacant lots in Peoria not yet under construction and has built a new home and renovated seven others this year.

Read more: Habitat for Humanity working on 8 Peoria homes

Foreclosure help offered - USATODAY.com

Maricopa County residents in danger of losing their homes to foreclosure may seek help from Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix.

In a partnership with grocery chain Bashas', the non-profit housing organization is setting up a home-aid stand today at a Southwest Valley Food City grocery store to help troubled homeowners take the first step to getting help. Help will be available from 4- 7 p.m. today at Food City, 6544 W. Thomas Ave., Phoenix.

A similar opportunity was offered Wednesday at a Food City in Avondale.

Patricia Garcia Duarte, president and CEO of Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix, said that counseling won't be conducted at the home-aid stand but that homeowners can go there to begin getting help to save their homes through mortgage modification or to find a reasonable alternative to foreclosure, such as a short sale.

The workers at the stand will set up appointments for homeowners to see counselors and tell them which documents they need to take to those appointments.

"We will advocate for a better (mortgage) payment overall," Garcia Duarte said. "I would say to homeowners: Take advantage that we are here. We're a trusted source. We know what we're doing, and if there is a way, we're going to make sure we explore every avenue. The worst thing is not to do anything."

The housing-services group has been operating in Maricopa County for 37 years, offering a wide range of homeownership programs and services, Garcia Duarte said.
Neighborhood Housing Services is a member of the national NeighborWorks network, which gives it access to financial support, technical assistance and training.

Since 2009, the Phoenix housing services program has helped more than 1,580 families stay in their homes.

"There are too many people who are still not seeking help," Garcia Duarte said.
More information is available on at www.facebook.com/nhsphoenix.

By David Madrid, The Republic|azcentral.com Jun 9, 2012


Foreclosure help offered - USATODAY.com

Foreclosure help offered - USATODAY.com

Maricopa County residents in danger of losing their homes to foreclosure may seek help from Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix.

In a partnership with grocery chain Bashas', the non-profit housing organization is setting up a home-aid stand today at a Southwest Valley Food City grocery store to help troubled homeowners take the first step to getting help. Help will be available from 4- 7 p.m. today at Food City, 6544 W. Thomas Ave., Phoenix.

A similar opportunity was offered Wednesday at a Food City in Avondale.

Patricia Garcia Duarte, president and CEO of Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix, said that counseling won't be conducted at the home-aid stand but that homeowners can go there to begin getting help to save their homes through mortgage modification or to find a reasonable alternative to foreclosure, such as a short sale.

The workers at the stand will set up appointments for homeowners to see counselors and tell them which documents they need to take to those appointments.

"We will advocate for a better (mortgage) payment overall," Garcia Duarte said. "I would say to homeowners: Take advantage that we are here. We're a trusted source. We know what we're doing, and if there is a way, we're going to make sure we explore every avenue. The worst thing is not to do anything."

The housing-services group has been operating in Maricopa County for 37 years, offering a wide range of homeownership programs and services, Garcia Duarte said.
Neighborhood Housing Services is a member of the national NeighborWorks network, which gives it access to financial support, technical assistance and training.

Since 2009, the Phoenix housing services program has helped more than 1,580 families stay in their homes.

"There are too many people who are still not seeking help," Garcia Duarte said.
More information is available on at www.facebook.com/nhsphoenix.

By David Madrid, The Republic|azcentral.com Jun 9, 2012


Foreclosure help offered - USATODAY.com

Foreclosure help offered - USATODAY.com

Maricopa County residents in danger of losing their homes to foreclosure may seek help from Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix.

In a partnership with grocery chain Bashas', the non-profit housing organization is setting up a home-aid stand today at a Southwest Valley Food City grocery store to help troubled homeowners take the first step to getting help. Help will be available from 4- 7 p.m. today at Food City, 6544 W. Thomas Ave., Phoenix.

A similar opportunity was offered Wednesday at a Food City in Avondale.

Patricia Garcia Duarte, president and CEO of Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix, said that counseling won't be conducted at the home-aid stand but that homeowners can go there to begin getting help to save their homes through mortgage modification or to find a reasonable alternative to foreclosure, such as a short sale.

The workers at the stand will set up appointments for homeowners to see counselors and tell them which documents they need to take to those appointments.

"We will advocate for a better (mortgage) payment overall," Garcia Duarte said. "I would say to homeowners: Take advantage that we are here. We're a trusted source. We know what we're doing, and if there is a way, we're going to make sure we explore every avenue. The worst thing is not to do anything."

The housing-services group has been operating in Maricopa County for 37 years, offering a wide range of homeownership programs and services, Garcia Duarte said.
Neighborhood Housing Services is a member of the national NeighborWorks network, which gives it access to financial support, technical assistance and training.

Since 2009, the Phoenix housing services program has helped more than 1,580 families stay in their homes.

"There are too many people who are still not seeking help," Garcia Duarte said.
More information is available on at www.facebook.com/nhsphoenix.

By David Madrid, The Republic|azcentral.com Jun 9, 2012


Foreclosure help offered - USATODAY.com

Foreclosure help offered - USATODAY.com

Maricopa County residents in danger of losing their homes to foreclosure may seek help from Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix.

In a partnership with grocery chain Bashas', the non-profit housing organization is setting up a home-aid stand today at a Southwest Valley Food City grocery store to help troubled homeowners take the first step to getting help. Help will be available from 4- 7 p.m. today at Food City, 6544 W. Thomas Ave., Phoenix.

A similar opportunity was offered Wednesday at a Food City in Avondale.

Patricia Garcia Duarte, president and CEO of Neighborhood Housing Services of Phoenix, said that counseling won't be conducted at the home-aid stand but that homeowners can go there to begin getting help to save their homes through mortgage modification or to find a reasonable alternative to foreclosure, such as a short sale.

The workers at the stand will set up appointments for homeowners to see counselors and tell them which documents they need to take to those appointments.

"We will advocate for a better (mortgage) payment overall," Garcia Duarte said. "I would say to homeowners: Take advantage that we are here. We're a trusted source. We know what we're doing, and if there is a way, we're going to make sure we explore every avenue. The worst thing is not to do anything."

The housing-services group has been operating in Maricopa County for 37 years, offering a wide range of homeownership programs and services, Garcia Duarte said.
Neighborhood Housing Services is a member of the national NeighborWorks network, which gives it access to financial support, technical assistance and training.

Since 2009, the Phoenix housing services program has helped more than 1,580 families stay in their homes.

"There are too many people who are still not seeking help," Garcia Duarte said.
More information is available on at www.facebook.com/nhsphoenix.

By David Madrid, The Republic|azcentral.com Jun 9, 2012


Foreclosure help offered - USATODAY.com

34 years of keeping families in their homes

Rebecca Flanagan recently retired as the head of the Phoenix office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development after 34 years of fighting for affordable housing, stabilizing neighborhoods, finding food and clothing for struggling families and in the end keeping families in their homes and off the streets.

Flanagan's career with HUD started in 1977 after an unexpected discussion with a neighbor as she was pulling out of the driveway of her Denver home.

"Our neighbor flagged me down," Flanagan said. "I unrolled the window and she asked me if spoke Spanish. I said 'si,' and she told me that HUD's Denver regional office was looking for a part-time administrator who spoke Spanish."

Flanagan, who had two very young sons at the time, was interested in a part-time job and interviewed with HUD. Three months later, after she had considered selling hair products part time to bring in some extra cash for her family, HUD finally called back and offered her the job.

Flanagan's role with HUD quickly grew, and when she and her husband moved back to Southern California, she was able to keep working with the agency.

In 1990, Flanagan was named deputy director of the Phoenix field office of HUD. One of her first assignments turned into a project that changed the lives of thousands of Phoenix students and helped revitalize a neighborhood east of downtown. It's a project that spanned her career at HUD in Phoenix.

"One of the first things I did when I reached Phoenix was volunteer to be principal for the day at Wilson Elementary School," she said.

"I asked the principal what else we could do. He sent me a very long list."

The Wilson school, in a lower-income neighborhood in east Phoenix, needed a lot: mentors for both students and families and clothes, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, food and nearby affordable housing for not only residents but teachers.

Flanagan took it on. HUD employees are allowed to be paid for eight hours of non-profit work a month, so she tapped everyone she could to volunteer as mentors for a class of 20 at the elementary school. Chicanos Por La Causa redeveloped two homes near the school to provide more affordable housing.

Then, Phoenix took over a run-down apartment complex across the street from the school and renovated it for low-income residents.

A bank executive got involved, and students at a Tempe school, and soon every student at Wilson had new shoes and more food in their kitchens.

"Some of the kids had their only meal a day when they ate a school lunch," said Flanagan, who keeps in touch with the girl she mentored and went on to junior college and is married with a family.

That is one of Flanagan's favorite accomplishments at HUD.

One of her biggest disappointments is that during the past few years she and the agency couldn't do more to keep people from losing homes to foreclosure.

"It seemed like every federal housing program rolled out, we couldn't use in Arizona," she said.

"We had a special congressional meeting earlier this year to try to get the program adjusted to help the state's homeowners more. Not much has happened from that meeting yet, but I am still hopeful that Arizona be a pilot for programs that will work and help slow foreclosures."

by Catherine Reagor The Arizona Republic Nov. 11, 2011 05:01 PM




34 years of keeping families in their homes

34 years of keeping families in their homes

Rebecca Flanagan recently retired as the head of the Phoenix office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development after 34 years of fighting for affordable housing, stabilizing neighborhoods, finding food and clothing for struggling families and in the end keeping families in their homes and off the streets.

Flanagan's career with HUD started in 1977 after an unexpected discussion with a neighbor as she was pulling out of the driveway of her Denver home.

"Our neighbor flagged me down," Flanagan said. "I unrolled the window and she asked me if spoke Spanish. I said 'si,' and she told me that HUD's Denver regional office was looking for a part-time administrator who spoke Spanish."

Flanagan, who had two very young sons at the time, was interested in a part-time job and interviewed with HUD. Three months later, after she had considered selling hair products part time to bring in some extra cash for her family, HUD finally called back and offered her the job.

Flanagan's role with HUD quickly grew, and when she and her husband moved back to Southern California, she was able to keep working with the agency.

In 1990, Flanagan was named deputy director of the Phoenix field office of HUD. One of her first assignments turned into a project that changed the lives of thousands of Phoenix students and helped revitalize a neighborhood east of downtown. It's a project that spanned her career at HUD in Phoenix.

"One of the first things I did when I reached Phoenix was volunteer to be principal for the day at Wilson Elementary School," she said.

"I asked the principal what else we could do. He sent me a very long list."

The Wilson school, in a lower-income neighborhood in east Phoenix, needed a lot: mentors for both students and families and clothes, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, food and nearby affordable housing for not only residents but teachers.

Flanagan took it on. HUD employees are allowed to be paid for eight hours of non-profit work a month, so she tapped everyone she could to volunteer as mentors for a class of 20 at the elementary school. Chicanos Por La Causa redeveloped two homes near the school to provide more affordable housing.

Then, Phoenix took over a run-down apartment complex across the street from the school and renovated it for low-income residents.

A bank executive got involved, and students at a Tempe school, and soon every student at Wilson had new shoes and more food in their kitchens.

"Some of the kids had their only meal a day when they ate a school lunch," said Flanagan, who keeps in touch with the girl she mentored and went on to junior college and is married with a family.

That is one of Flanagan's favorite accomplishments at HUD.

One of her biggest disappointments is that during the past few years she and the agency couldn't do more to keep people from losing homes to foreclosure.

"It seemed like every federal housing program rolled out, we couldn't use in Arizona," she said.

"We had a special congressional meeting earlier this year to try to get the program adjusted to help the state's homeowners more. Not much has happened from that meeting yet, but I am still hopeful that Arizona be a pilot for programs that will work and help slow foreclosures."

by Catherine Reagor The Arizona Republic Nov. 11, 2011 05:01 PM




34 years of keeping families in their homes

34 years of keeping families in their homes

Rebecca Flanagan recently retired as the head of the Phoenix office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development after 34 years of fighting for affordable housing, stabilizing neighborhoods, finding food and clothing for struggling families and in the end keeping families in their homes and off the streets.

Flanagan's career with HUD started in 1977 after an unexpected discussion with a neighbor as she was pulling out of the driveway of her Denver home.

"Our neighbor flagged me down," Flanagan said. "I unrolled the window and she asked me if spoke Spanish. I said 'si,' and she told me that HUD's Denver regional office was looking for a part-time administrator who spoke Spanish."

Flanagan, who had two very young sons at the time, was interested in a part-time job and interviewed with HUD. Three months later, after she had considered selling hair products part time to bring in some extra cash for her family, HUD finally called back and offered her the job.

Flanagan's role with HUD quickly grew, and when she and her husband moved back to Southern California, she was able to keep working with the agency.

In 1990, Flanagan was named deputy director of the Phoenix field office of HUD. One of her first assignments turned into a project that changed the lives of thousands of Phoenix students and helped revitalize a neighborhood east of downtown. It's a project that spanned her career at HUD in Phoenix.

"One of the first things I did when I reached Phoenix was volunteer to be principal for the day at Wilson Elementary School," she said.

"I asked the principal what else we could do. He sent me a very long list."

The Wilson school, in a lower-income neighborhood in east Phoenix, needed a lot: mentors for both students and families and clothes, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, food and nearby affordable housing for not only residents but teachers.

Flanagan took it on. HUD employees are allowed to be paid for eight hours of non-profit work a month, so she tapped everyone she could to volunteer as mentors for a class of 20 at the elementary school. Chicanos Por La Causa redeveloped two homes near the school to provide more affordable housing.

Then, Phoenix took over a run-down apartment complex across the street from the school and renovated it for low-income residents.

A bank executive got involved, and students at a Tempe school, and soon every student at Wilson had new shoes and more food in their kitchens.

"Some of the kids had their only meal a day when they ate a school lunch," said Flanagan, who keeps in touch with the girl she mentored and went on to junior college and is married with a family.

That is one of Flanagan's favorite accomplishments at HUD.

One of her biggest disappointments is that during the past few years she and the agency couldn't do more to keep people from losing homes to foreclosure.

"It seemed like every federal housing program rolled out, we couldn't use in Arizona," she said.

"We had a special congressional meeting earlier this year to try to get the program adjusted to help the state's homeowners more. Not much has happened from that meeting yet, but I am still hopeful that Arizona be a pilot for programs that will work and help slow foreclosures."

by Catherine Reagor The Arizona Republic Nov. 11, 2011 05:01 PM




34 years of keeping families in their homes

34 years of keeping families in their homes

Rebecca Flanagan recently retired as the head of the Phoenix office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development after 34 years of fighting for affordable housing, stabilizing neighborhoods, finding food and clothing for struggling families and in the end keeping families in their homes and off the streets.

Flanagan's career with HUD started in 1977 after an unexpected discussion with a neighbor as she was pulling out of the driveway of her Denver home.

"Our neighbor flagged me down," Flanagan said. "I unrolled the window and she asked me if spoke Spanish. I said 'si,' and she told me that HUD's Denver regional office was looking for a part-time administrator who spoke Spanish."

Flanagan, who had two very young sons at the time, was interested in a part-time job and interviewed with HUD. Three months later, after she had considered selling hair products part time to bring in some extra cash for her family, HUD finally called back and offered her the job.

Flanagan's role with HUD quickly grew, and when she and her husband moved back to Southern California, she was able to keep working with the agency.

In 1990, Flanagan was named deputy director of the Phoenix field office of HUD. One of her first assignments turned into a project that changed the lives of thousands of Phoenix students and helped revitalize a neighborhood east of downtown. It's a project that spanned her career at HUD in Phoenix.

"One of the first things I did when I reached Phoenix was volunteer to be principal for the day at Wilson Elementary School," she said.

"I asked the principal what else we could do. He sent me a very long list."

The Wilson school, in a lower-income neighborhood in east Phoenix, needed a lot: mentors for both students and families and clothes, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, food and nearby affordable housing for not only residents but teachers.

Flanagan took it on. HUD employees are allowed to be paid for eight hours of non-profit work a month, so she tapped everyone she could to volunteer as mentors for a class of 20 at the elementary school. Chicanos Por La Causa redeveloped two homes near the school to provide more affordable housing.

Then, Phoenix took over a run-down apartment complex across the street from the school and renovated it for low-income residents.

A bank executive got involved, and students at a Tempe school, and soon every student at Wilson had new shoes and more food in their kitchens.

"Some of the kids had their only meal a day when they ate a school lunch," said Flanagan, who keeps in touch with the girl she mentored and went on to junior college and is married with a family.

That is one of Flanagan's favorite accomplishments at HUD.

One of her biggest disappointments is that during the past few years she and the agency couldn't do more to keep people from losing homes to foreclosure.

"It seemed like every federal housing program rolled out, we couldn't use in Arizona," she said.

"We had a special congressional meeting earlier this year to try to get the program adjusted to help the state's homeowners more. Not much has happened from that meeting yet, but I am still hopeful that Arizona be a pilot for programs that will work and help slow foreclosures."

by Catherine Reagor The Arizona Republic Nov. 11, 2011 05:01 PM




34 years of keeping families in their homes

34 years of keeping families in their homes

Rebecca Flanagan recently retired as the head of the Phoenix office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development after 34 years of fighting for affordable housing, stabilizing neighborhoods, finding food and clothing for struggling families and in the end keeping families in their homes and off the streets.

Flanagan's career with HUD started in 1977 after an unexpected discussion with a neighbor as she was pulling out of the driveway of her Denver home.

"Our neighbor flagged me down," Flanagan said. "I unrolled the window and she asked me if spoke Spanish. I said 'si,' and she told me that HUD's Denver regional office was looking for a part-time administrator who spoke Spanish."

Flanagan, who had two very young sons at the time, was interested in a part-time job and interviewed with HUD. Three months later, after she had considered selling hair products part time to bring in some extra cash for her family, HUD finally called back and offered her the job.

Flanagan's role with HUD quickly grew, and when she and her husband moved back to Southern California, she was able to keep working with the agency.

In 1990, Flanagan was named deputy director of the Phoenix field office of HUD. One of her first assignments turned into a project that changed the lives of thousands of Phoenix students and helped revitalize a neighborhood east of downtown. It's a project that spanned her career at HUD in Phoenix.

"One of the first things I did when I reached Phoenix was volunteer to be principal for the day at Wilson Elementary School," she said.

"I asked the principal what else we could do. He sent me a very long list."

The Wilson school, in a lower-income neighborhood in east Phoenix, needed a lot: mentors for both students and families and clothes, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, food and nearby affordable housing for not only residents but teachers.

Flanagan took it on. HUD employees are allowed to be paid for eight hours of non-profit work a month, so she tapped everyone she could to volunteer as mentors for a class of 20 at the elementary school. Chicanos Por La Causa redeveloped two homes near the school to provide more affordable housing.

Then, Phoenix took over a run-down apartment complex across the street from the school and renovated it for low-income residents.

A bank executive got involved, and students at a Tempe school, and soon every student at Wilson had new shoes and more food in their kitchens.

"Some of the kids had their only meal a day when they ate a school lunch," said Flanagan, who keeps in touch with the girl she mentored and went on to junior college and is married with a family.

That is one of Flanagan's favorite accomplishments at HUD.

One of her biggest disappointments is that during the past few years she and the agency couldn't do more to keep people from losing homes to foreclosure.

"It seemed like every federal housing program rolled out, we couldn't use in Arizona," she said.

"We had a special congressional meeting earlier this year to try to get the program adjusted to help the state's homeowners more. Not much has happened from that meeting yet, but I am still hopeful that Arizona be a pilot for programs that will work and help slow foreclosures."

by Catherine Reagor The Arizona Republic Nov. 11, 2011 05:01 PM




34 years of keeping families in their homes

34 years of keeping families in their homes

Rebecca Flanagan recently retired as the head of the Phoenix office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development after 34 years of fighting for affordable housing, stabilizing neighborhoods, finding food and clothing for struggling families and in the end keeping families in their homes and off the streets.

Flanagan's career with HUD started in 1977 after an unexpected discussion with a neighbor as she was pulling out of the driveway of her Denver home.

"Our neighbor flagged me down," Flanagan said. "I unrolled the window and she asked me if spoke Spanish. I said 'si,' and she told me that HUD's Denver regional office was looking for a part-time administrator who spoke Spanish."

Flanagan, who had two very young sons at the time, was interested in a part-time job and interviewed with HUD. Three months later, after she had considered selling hair products part time to bring in some extra cash for her family, HUD finally called back and offered her the job.

Flanagan's role with HUD quickly grew, and when she and her husband moved back to Southern California, she was able to keep working with the agency.

In 1990, Flanagan was named deputy director of the Phoenix field office of HUD. One of her first assignments turned into a project that changed the lives of thousands of Phoenix students and helped revitalize a neighborhood east of downtown. It's a project that spanned her career at HUD in Phoenix.

"One of the first things I did when I reached Phoenix was volunteer to be principal for the day at Wilson Elementary School," she said.

"I asked the principal what else we could do. He sent me a very long list."

The Wilson school, in a lower-income neighborhood in east Phoenix, needed a lot: mentors for both students and families and clothes, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, food and nearby affordable housing for not only residents but teachers.

Flanagan took it on. HUD employees are allowed to be paid for eight hours of non-profit work a month, so she tapped everyone she could to volunteer as mentors for a class of 20 at the elementary school. Chicanos Por La Causa redeveloped two homes near the school to provide more affordable housing.

Then, Phoenix took over a run-down apartment complex across the street from the school and renovated it for low-income residents.

A bank executive got involved, and students at a Tempe school, and soon every student at Wilson had new shoes and more food in their kitchens.

"Some of the kids had their only meal a day when they ate a school lunch," said Flanagan, who keeps in touch with the girl she mentored and went on to junior college and is married with a family.

That is one of Flanagan's favorite accomplishments at HUD.

One of her biggest disappointments is that during the past few years she and the agency couldn't do more to keep people from losing homes to foreclosure.

"It seemed like every federal housing program rolled out, we couldn't use in Arizona," she said.

"We had a special congressional meeting earlier this year to try to get the program adjusted to help the state's homeowners more. Not much has happened from that meeting yet, but I am still hopeful that Arizona be a pilot for programs that will work and help slow foreclosures."

by Catherine Reagor The Arizona Republic Nov. 11, 2011 05:01 PM




34 years of keeping families in their homes

34 years of keeping families in their homes

Rebecca Flanagan recently retired as the head of the Phoenix office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development after 34 years of fighting for affordable housing, stabilizing neighborhoods, finding food and clothing for struggling families and in the end keeping families in their homes and off the streets.

Flanagan's career with HUD started in 1977 after an unexpected discussion with a neighbor as she was pulling out of the driveway of her Denver home.

"Our neighbor flagged me down," Flanagan said. "I unrolled the window and she asked me if spoke Spanish. I said 'si,' and she told me that HUD's Denver regional office was looking for a part-time administrator who spoke Spanish."

Flanagan, who had two very young sons at the time, was interested in a part-time job and interviewed with HUD. Three months later, after she had considered selling hair products part time to bring in some extra cash for her family, HUD finally called back and offered her the job.

Flanagan's role with HUD quickly grew, and when she and her husband moved back to Southern California, she was able to keep working with the agency.

In 1990, Flanagan was named deputy director of the Phoenix field office of HUD. One of her first assignments turned into a project that changed the lives of thousands of Phoenix students and helped revitalize a neighborhood east of downtown. It's a project that spanned her career at HUD in Phoenix.

"One of the first things I did when I reached Phoenix was volunteer to be principal for the day at Wilson Elementary School," she said.

"I asked the principal what else we could do. He sent me a very long list."

The Wilson school, in a lower-income neighborhood in east Phoenix, needed a lot: mentors for both students and families and clothes, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, food and nearby affordable housing for not only residents but teachers.

Flanagan took it on. HUD employees are allowed to be paid for eight hours of non-profit work a month, so she tapped everyone she could to volunteer as mentors for a class of 20 at the elementary school. Chicanos Por La Causa redeveloped two homes near the school to provide more affordable housing.

Then, Phoenix took over a run-down apartment complex across the street from the school and renovated it for low-income residents.

A bank executive got involved, and students at a Tempe school, and soon every student at Wilson had new shoes and more food in their kitchens.

"Some of the kids had their only meal a day when they ate a school lunch," said Flanagan, who keeps in touch with the girl she mentored and went on to junior college and is married with a family.

That is one of Flanagan's favorite accomplishments at HUD.

One of her biggest disappointments is that during the past few years she and the agency couldn't do more to keep people from losing homes to foreclosure.

"It seemed like every federal housing program rolled out, we couldn't use in Arizona," she said.

"We had a special congressional meeting earlier this year to try to get the program adjusted to help the state's homeowners more. Not much has happened from that meeting yet, but I am still hopeful that Arizona be a pilot for programs that will work and help slow foreclosures."

by Catherine Reagor The Arizona Republic Nov. 11, 2011 05:01 PM




34 years of keeping families in their homes

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

On Wednesday afternoon, the Quinteros received one of their first housewarming gifts: a blue and green welcome mat for the front door of the family's new home.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Raphael Bostic, Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and others presented the gift after announcing that Arizona is receiving an additional $45 million to lift neighborhoods struggling through the foreclosure crisis and help more families like the Quinteros.

The state, three counties and eight cities were awarded the money through the federal government's Neighborhood Stabilization Program, aimed at reversing and preventing blight and abandonment from foreclosures. Phoenix received more than $16 million, the largest amount.

This is the third wave of NSP housing money from Uncle Sam. So far, Arizona has received more than $301 million, with more than $115 million going to Phoenix.

Local governments can use the money to buy, redevelop or raze foreclosed properties to fight blight and neighborhood deterioration that often occur when homes go into foreclosure. They can also use the money to provide loans that would prevent foreclosure or help qualified first-time homebuyers, like the Quinteros, with down-payment assistance.

In the living room of their new home in south Phoenix, Ignacio and Alma Susana Quintero talked about how it was a "miracle" for them to become homeowners. The family received $15,000 through NSP for the down payment on a $95,000, three-bedroom home that was previously foreclosed. Ignacio said the family wouldn't have been able buy the home without the down-payment assistance, which came from the first wave of federal housing money Phoenix received in 2009.

The family was living in an apartment, where rent was $1 less than the Quinteros' new monthly mortgage payment of $642.

It took three months for the Quinteros to close escrow on the home after applying for NSP funding. Ignacio, Alma and their 9-year-old son, Kevin, moved in Labor Day weekend.

"It was our dream to have our home," Ignacio said. "We thank God and we appreciate that we were able to do it so quickly."

Arizona and metropolitan Phoenix are among regions of the country hit hardest by the foreclosure crisis. Arizona ranks second to Nevada among states with the highest number of foreclosures, according to Realty Trac, which keeps an online database of bank-owned properties nationwide.

Bostic said NSP isn't a "silver bullet" that can address all of the nation's foreclosed properties, but the Quintero family shows that the program is working.

"This is a hard-working family, a middle-class family, that is just trying to get ahead in our society and our community, and it's a pleasure to see our resources and our program help out good people like this," Bostic said.

Foreclosed and vacant homes often have a negative impact on neighborhoods, creating blight, decay and reduced property values, Bostic said.

Among the country's 200 largest metropolitan areas, Phoenix ranks seventh in the number of foreclosures.

Phoenix received about $39.4 million in its first round of housing funding. In February, the city received an additional $60 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

So far, 172 homebuyers have purchased homes in the city using federal NSP loans distributed by Phoenix. In addition, more than 120 foreclosed homes have been purchased by the city or partnering non-profit organizations for rehabilitation and resale.

City officials estimate that at least 1,500 houses and apartment properties in Phoenix will benefit from the first two waves of the federal housing money.

"It's about putting taxpayer dollars that have already been paid back into neighborhoods to protect the community," Gordon said.

And for at least one member of the Quintero family, it's about being happy in a new house with more space.

"I have my own room," Kevin said. "I have a lot of room to play."

by Lynh Bui The Arizona Republic Sept. 9, 2010 12:00 AM

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

On Wednesday afternoon, the Quinteros received one of their first housewarming gifts: a blue and green welcome mat for the front door of the family's new home.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Raphael Bostic, Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and others presented the gift after announcing that Arizona is receiving an additional $45 million to lift neighborhoods struggling through the foreclosure crisis and help more families like the Quinteros.

The state, three counties and eight cities were awarded the money through the federal government's Neighborhood Stabilization Program, aimed at reversing and preventing blight and abandonment from foreclosures. Phoenix received more than $16 million, the largest amount.

This is the third wave of NSP housing money from Uncle Sam. So far, Arizona has received more than $301 million, with more than $115 million going to Phoenix.

Local governments can use the money to buy, redevelop or raze foreclosed properties to fight blight and neighborhood deterioration that often occur when homes go into foreclosure. They can also use the money to provide loans that would prevent foreclosure or help qualified first-time homebuyers, like the Quinteros, with down-payment assistance.

In the living room of their new home in south Phoenix, Ignacio and Alma Susana Quintero talked about how it was a "miracle" for them to become homeowners. The family received $15,000 through NSP for the down payment on a $95,000, three-bedroom home that was previously foreclosed. Ignacio said the family wouldn't have been able buy the home without the down-payment assistance, which came from the first wave of federal housing money Phoenix received in 2009.

The family was living in an apartment, where rent was $1 less than the Quinteros' new monthly mortgage payment of $642.

It took three months for the Quinteros to close escrow on the home after applying for NSP funding. Ignacio, Alma and their 9-year-old son, Kevin, moved in Labor Day weekend.

"It was our dream to have our home," Ignacio said. "We thank God and we appreciate that we were able to do it so quickly."

Arizona and metropolitan Phoenix are among regions of the country hit hardest by the foreclosure crisis. Arizona ranks second to Nevada among states with the highest number of foreclosures, according to Realty Trac, which keeps an online database of bank-owned properties nationwide.

Bostic said NSP isn't a "silver bullet" that can address all of the nation's foreclosed properties, but the Quintero family shows that the program is working.

"This is a hard-working family, a middle-class family, that is just trying to get ahead in our society and our community, and it's a pleasure to see our resources and our program help out good people like this," Bostic said.

Foreclosed and vacant homes often have a negative impact on neighborhoods, creating blight, decay and reduced property values, Bostic said.

Among the country's 200 largest metropolitan areas, Phoenix ranks seventh in the number of foreclosures.

Phoenix received about $39.4 million in its first round of housing funding. In February, the city received an additional $60 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

So far, 172 homebuyers have purchased homes in the city using federal NSP loans distributed by Phoenix. In addition, more than 120 foreclosed homes have been purchased by the city or partnering non-profit organizations for rehabilitation and resale.

City officials estimate that at least 1,500 houses and apartment properties in Phoenix will benefit from the first two waves of the federal housing money.

"It's about putting taxpayer dollars that have already been paid back into neighborhoods to protect the community," Gordon said.

And for at least one member of the Quintero family, it's about being happy in a new house with more space.

"I have my own room," Kevin said. "I have a lot of room to play."

by Lynh Bui The Arizona Republic Sept. 9, 2010 12:00 AM

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

On Wednesday afternoon, the Quinteros received one of their first housewarming gifts: a blue and green welcome mat for the front door of the family's new home.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Raphael Bostic, Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and others presented the gift after announcing that Arizona is receiving an additional $45 million to lift neighborhoods struggling through the foreclosure crisis and help more families like the Quinteros.

The state, three counties and eight cities were awarded the money through the federal government's Neighborhood Stabilization Program, aimed at reversing and preventing blight and abandonment from foreclosures. Phoenix received more than $16 million, the largest amount.

This is the third wave of NSP housing money from Uncle Sam. So far, Arizona has received more than $301 million, with more than $115 million going to Phoenix.

Local governments can use the money to buy, redevelop or raze foreclosed properties to fight blight and neighborhood deterioration that often occur when homes go into foreclosure. They can also use the money to provide loans that would prevent foreclosure or help qualified first-time homebuyers, like the Quinteros, with down-payment assistance.

In the living room of their new home in south Phoenix, Ignacio and Alma Susana Quintero talked about how it was a "miracle" for them to become homeowners. The family received $15,000 through NSP for the down payment on a $95,000, three-bedroom home that was previously foreclosed. Ignacio said the family wouldn't have been able buy the home without the down-payment assistance, which came from the first wave of federal housing money Phoenix received in 2009.

The family was living in an apartment, where rent was $1 less than the Quinteros' new monthly mortgage payment of $642.

It took three months for the Quinteros to close escrow on the home after applying for NSP funding. Ignacio, Alma and their 9-year-old son, Kevin, moved in Labor Day weekend.

"It was our dream to have our home," Ignacio said. "We thank God and we appreciate that we were able to do it so quickly."

Arizona and metropolitan Phoenix are among regions of the country hit hardest by the foreclosure crisis. Arizona ranks second to Nevada among states with the highest number of foreclosures, according to Realty Trac, which keeps an online database of bank-owned properties nationwide.

Bostic said NSP isn't a "silver bullet" that can address all of the nation's foreclosed properties, but the Quintero family shows that the program is working.

"This is a hard-working family, a middle-class family, that is just trying to get ahead in our society and our community, and it's a pleasure to see our resources and our program help out good people like this," Bostic said.

Foreclosed and vacant homes often have a negative impact on neighborhoods, creating blight, decay and reduced property values, Bostic said.

Among the country's 200 largest metropolitan areas, Phoenix ranks seventh in the number of foreclosures.

Phoenix received about $39.4 million in its first round of housing funding. In February, the city received an additional $60 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

So far, 172 homebuyers have purchased homes in the city using federal NSP loans distributed by Phoenix. In addition, more than 120 foreclosed homes have been purchased by the city or partnering non-profit organizations for rehabilitation and resale.

City officials estimate that at least 1,500 houses and apartment properties in Phoenix will benefit from the first two waves of the federal housing money.

"It's about putting taxpayer dollars that have already been paid back into neighborhoods to protect the community," Gordon said.

And for at least one member of the Quintero family, it's about being happy in a new house with more space.

"I have my own room," Kevin said. "I have a lot of room to play."

by Lynh Bui The Arizona Republic Sept. 9, 2010 12:00 AM

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

On Wednesday afternoon, the Quinteros received one of their first housewarming gifts: a blue and green welcome mat for the front door of the family's new home.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Raphael Bostic, Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and others presented the gift after announcing that Arizona is receiving an additional $45 million to lift neighborhoods struggling through the foreclosure crisis and help more families like the Quinteros.

The state, three counties and eight cities were awarded the money through the federal government's Neighborhood Stabilization Program, aimed at reversing and preventing blight and abandonment from foreclosures. Phoenix received more than $16 million, the largest amount.

This is the third wave of NSP housing money from Uncle Sam. So far, Arizona has received more than $301 million, with more than $115 million going to Phoenix.

Local governments can use the money to buy, redevelop or raze foreclosed properties to fight blight and neighborhood deterioration that often occur when homes go into foreclosure. They can also use the money to provide loans that would prevent foreclosure or help qualified first-time homebuyers, like the Quinteros, with down-payment assistance.

In the living room of their new home in south Phoenix, Ignacio and Alma Susana Quintero talked about how it was a "miracle" for them to become homeowners. The family received $15,000 through NSP for the down payment on a $95,000, three-bedroom home that was previously foreclosed. Ignacio said the family wouldn't have been able buy the home without the down-payment assistance, which came from the first wave of federal housing money Phoenix received in 2009.

The family was living in an apartment, where rent was $1 less than the Quinteros' new monthly mortgage payment of $642.

It took three months for the Quinteros to close escrow on the home after applying for NSP funding. Ignacio, Alma and their 9-year-old son, Kevin, moved in Labor Day weekend.

"It was our dream to have our home," Ignacio said. "We thank God and we appreciate that we were able to do it so quickly."

Arizona and metropolitan Phoenix are among regions of the country hit hardest by the foreclosure crisis. Arizona ranks second to Nevada among states with the highest number of foreclosures, according to Realty Trac, which keeps an online database of bank-owned properties nationwide.

Bostic said NSP isn't a "silver bullet" that can address all of the nation's foreclosed properties, but the Quintero family shows that the program is working.

"This is a hard-working family, a middle-class family, that is just trying to get ahead in our society and our community, and it's a pleasure to see our resources and our program help out good people like this," Bostic said.

Foreclosed and vacant homes often have a negative impact on neighborhoods, creating blight, decay and reduced property values, Bostic said.

Among the country's 200 largest metropolitan areas, Phoenix ranks seventh in the number of foreclosures.

Phoenix received about $39.4 million in its first round of housing funding. In February, the city received an additional $60 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

So far, 172 homebuyers have purchased homes in the city using federal NSP loans distributed by Phoenix. In addition, more than 120 foreclosed homes have been purchased by the city or partnering non-profit organizations for rehabilitation and resale.

City officials estimate that at least 1,500 houses and apartment properties in Phoenix will benefit from the first two waves of the federal housing money.

"It's about putting taxpayer dollars that have already been paid back into neighborhoods to protect the community," Gordon said.

And for at least one member of the Quintero family, it's about being happy in a new house with more space.

"I have my own room," Kevin said. "I have a lot of room to play."

by Lynh Bui The Arizona Republic Sept. 9, 2010 12:00 AM

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

On Wednesday afternoon, the Quinteros received one of their first housewarming gifts: a blue and green welcome mat for the front door of the family's new home.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Raphael Bostic, Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and others presented the gift after announcing that Arizona is receiving an additional $45 million to lift neighborhoods struggling through the foreclosure crisis and help more families like the Quinteros.

The state, three counties and eight cities were awarded the money through the federal government's Neighborhood Stabilization Program, aimed at reversing and preventing blight and abandonment from foreclosures. Phoenix received more than $16 million, the largest amount.

This is the third wave of NSP housing money from Uncle Sam. So far, Arizona has received more than $301 million, with more than $115 million going to Phoenix.

Local governments can use the money to buy, redevelop or raze foreclosed properties to fight blight and neighborhood deterioration that often occur when homes go into foreclosure. They can also use the money to provide loans that would prevent foreclosure or help qualified first-time homebuyers, like the Quinteros, with down-payment assistance.

In the living room of their new home in south Phoenix, Ignacio and Alma Susana Quintero talked about how it was a "miracle" for them to become homeowners. The family received $15,000 through NSP for the down payment on a $95,000, three-bedroom home that was previously foreclosed. Ignacio said the family wouldn't have been able buy the home without the down-payment assistance, which came from the first wave of federal housing money Phoenix received in 2009.

The family was living in an apartment, where rent was $1 less than the Quinteros' new monthly mortgage payment of $642.

It took three months for the Quinteros to close escrow on the home after applying for NSP funding. Ignacio, Alma and their 9-year-old son, Kevin, moved in Labor Day weekend.

"It was our dream to have our home," Ignacio said. "We thank God and we appreciate that we were able to do it so quickly."

Arizona and metropolitan Phoenix are among regions of the country hit hardest by the foreclosure crisis. Arizona ranks second to Nevada among states with the highest number of foreclosures, according to Realty Trac, which keeps an online database of bank-owned properties nationwide.

Bostic said NSP isn't a "silver bullet" that can address all of the nation's foreclosed properties, but the Quintero family shows that the program is working.

"This is a hard-working family, a middle-class family, that is just trying to get ahead in our society and our community, and it's a pleasure to see our resources and our program help out good people like this," Bostic said.

Foreclosed and vacant homes often have a negative impact on neighborhoods, creating blight, decay and reduced property values, Bostic said.

Among the country's 200 largest metropolitan areas, Phoenix ranks seventh in the number of foreclosures.

Phoenix received about $39.4 million in its first round of housing funding. In February, the city received an additional $60 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

So far, 172 homebuyers have purchased homes in the city using federal NSP loans distributed by Phoenix. In addition, more than 120 foreclosed homes have been purchased by the city or partnering non-profit organizations for rehabilitation and resale.

City officials estimate that at least 1,500 houses and apartment properties in Phoenix will benefit from the first two waves of the federal housing money.

"It's about putting taxpayer dollars that have already been paid back into neighborhoods to protect the community," Gordon said.

And for at least one member of the Quintero family, it's about being happy in a new house with more space.

"I have my own room," Kevin said. "I have a lot of room to play."

by Lynh Bui The Arizona Republic Sept. 9, 2010 12:00 AM

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

On Wednesday afternoon, the Quinteros received one of their first housewarming gifts: a blue and green welcome mat for the front door of the family's new home.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Raphael Bostic, Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and others presented the gift after announcing that Arizona is receiving an additional $45 million to lift neighborhoods struggling through the foreclosure crisis and help more families like the Quinteros.

The state, three counties and eight cities were awarded the money through the federal government's Neighborhood Stabilization Program, aimed at reversing and preventing blight and abandonment from foreclosures. Phoenix received more than $16 million, the largest amount.

This is the third wave of NSP housing money from Uncle Sam. So far, Arizona has received more than $301 million, with more than $115 million going to Phoenix.

Local governments can use the money to buy, redevelop or raze foreclosed properties to fight blight and neighborhood deterioration that often occur when homes go into foreclosure. They can also use the money to provide loans that would prevent foreclosure or help qualified first-time homebuyers, like the Quinteros, with down-payment assistance.

In the living room of their new home in south Phoenix, Ignacio and Alma Susana Quintero talked about how it was a "miracle" for them to become homeowners. The family received $15,000 through NSP for the down payment on a $95,000, three-bedroom home that was previously foreclosed. Ignacio said the family wouldn't have been able buy the home without the down-payment assistance, which came from the first wave of federal housing money Phoenix received in 2009.

The family was living in an apartment, where rent was $1 less than the Quinteros' new monthly mortgage payment of $642.

It took three months for the Quinteros to close escrow on the home after applying for NSP funding. Ignacio, Alma and their 9-year-old son, Kevin, moved in Labor Day weekend.

"It was our dream to have our home," Ignacio said. "We thank God and we appreciate that we were able to do it so quickly."

Arizona and metropolitan Phoenix are among regions of the country hit hardest by the foreclosure crisis. Arizona ranks second to Nevada among states with the highest number of foreclosures, according to Realty Trac, which keeps an online database of bank-owned properties nationwide.

Bostic said NSP isn't a "silver bullet" that can address all of the nation's foreclosed properties, but the Quintero family shows that the program is working.

"This is a hard-working family, a middle-class family, that is just trying to get ahead in our society and our community, and it's a pleasure to see our resources and our program help out good people like this," Bostic said.

Foreclosed and vacant homes often have a negative impact on neighborhoods, creating blight, decay and reduced property values, Bostic said.

Among the country's 200 largest metropolitan areas, Phoenix ranks seventh in the number of foreclosures.

Phoenix received about $39.4 million in its first round of housing funding. In February, the city received an additional $60 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

So far, 172 homebuyers have purchased homes in the city using federal NSP loans distributed by Phoenix. In addition, more than 120 foreclosed homes have been purchased by the city or partnering non-profit organizations for rehabilitation and resale.

City officials estimate that at least 1,500 houses and apartment properties in Phoenix will benefit from the first two waves of the federal housing money.

"It's about putting taxpayer dollars that have already been paid back into neighborhoods to protect the community," Gordon said.

And for at least one member of the Quintero family, it's about being happy in a new house with more space.

"I have my own room," Kevin said. "I have a lot of room to play."

by Lynh Bui The Arizona Republic Sept. 9, 2010 12:00 AM

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis

On Wednesday afternoon, the Quinteros received one of their first housewarming gifts: a blue and green welcome mat for the front door of the family's new home.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Raphael Bostic, Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and others presented the gift after announcing that Arizona is receiving an additional $45 million to lift neighborhoods struggling through the foreclosure crisis and help more families like the Quinteros.

The state, three counties and eight cities were awarded the money through the federal government's Neighborhood Stabilization Program, aimed at reversing and preventing blight and abandonment from foreclosures. Phoenix received more than $16 million, the largest amount.

This is the third wave of NSP housing money from Uncle Sam. So far, Arizona has received more than $301 million, with more than $115 million going to Phoenix.

Local governments can use the money to buy, redevelop or raze foreclosed properties to fight blight and neighborhood deterioration that often occur when homes go into foreclosure. They can also use the money to provide loans that would prevent foreclosure or help qualified first-time homebuyers, like the Quinteros, with down-payment assistance.

In the living room of their new home in south Phoenix, Ignacio and Alma Susana Quintero talked about how it was a "miracle" for them to become homeowners. The family received $15,000 through NSP for the down payment on a $95,000, three-bedroom home that was previously foreclosed. Ignacio said the family wouldn't have been able buy the home without the down-payment assistance, which came from the first wave of federal housing money Phoenix received in 2009.

The family was living in an apartment, where rent was $1 less than the Quinteros' new monthly mortgage payment of $642.

It took three months for the Quinteros to close escrow on the home after applying for NSP funding. Ignacio, Alma and their 9-year-old son, Kevin, moved in Labor Day weekend.

"It was our dream to have our home," Ignacio said. "We thank God and we appreciate that we were able to do it so quickly."

Arizona and metropolitan Phoenix are among regions of the country hit hardest by the foreclosure crisis. Arizona ranks second to Nevada among states with the highest number of foreclosures, according to Realty Trac, which keeps an online database of bank-owned properties nationwide.

Bostic said NSP isn't a "silver bullet" that can address all of the nation's foreclosed properties, but the Quintero family shows that the program is working.

"This is a hard-working family, a middle-class family, that is just trying to get ahead in our society and our community, and it's a pleasure to see our resources and our program help out good people like this," Bostic said.

Foreclosed and vacant homes often have a negative impact on neighborhoods, creating blight, decay and reduced property values, Bostic said.

Among the country's 200 largest metropolitan areas, Phoenix ranks seventh in the number of foreclosures.

Phoenix received about $39.4 million in its first round of housing funding. In February, the city received an additional $60 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

So far, 172 homebuyers have purchased homes in the city using federal NSP loans distributed by Phoenix. In addition, more than 120 foreclosed homes have been purchased by the city or partnering non-profit organizations for rehabilitation and resale.

City officials estimate that at least 1,500 houses and apartment properties in Phoenix will benefit from the first two waves of the federal housing money.

"It's about putting taxpayer dollars that have already been paid back into neighborhoods to protect the community," Gordon said.

And for at least one member of the Quintero family, it's about being happy in a new house with more space.

"I have my own room," Kevin said. "I have a lot of room to play."

by Lynh Bui The Arizona Republic Sept. 9, 2010 12:00 AM

Arizona gets $45 million for foreclosure crisis