Georgetown, Del., June 26, 2008: Foreclosure troubles in Delaware and across the United States have dominated headlines in recent months.

With that in mind, the Sussex County Department of Community Development & Housing will host a free foreclosure prevention seminar from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 17, 2008, at Laurel Town Hall, 201 Mechanic St. The event is open to the public.

In May, Delaware experienced a dramatic rise in the number of foreclosure filings statewide. Sussex County recorded 110 filings, a 139 percent increase from May 2007. ZIP code analysis of data shows that the areas of Laurel and Seaford in western Sussex County were most affected by the current foreclosure trend. Officials hope to reverse that trend through public education.

“It is absolutely essential to combat the foreclosure issue with homeowner education,” said Brandy A. Bennett, housing coordinator for the Community Development & Housing office.

Gerry Kelly of the Office of State Bank Commissioner will discuss the foreclosure timeline in Delaware, various options available to people behind in their mortgage payments, and the latest information on programs available to residents.

In addition to Mr. Kelly, foreclosure counselors will be available to field questions from homeowners. There also will be an opportunity to have one-on-one sessions with the specialists after the seminar.

For more information, call (302) 855-7777.

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