Rescuing Home: A Fight Against Foreclosure

March 16, 2026

A 75-year-old Houston grandmother is at risk of losing her home.

Last October, Mrs. Villarreal’s family came to Avenue after her husband passed away and a reverse mortgage lender began foreclosure. The situation was complicated:

  • An older reverse mortgage that didn’t protect surviving spouses
  • Her name was on the home, but not on the loan
  • The lender required a $5,000 insurance payment
  • Unexpected legal and lien issues came up
  • She was living on just $831/month in Social Security
Stock Photo by Vitaly Gariev on Unsplash

Because of grant funding and philanthropic support our Certified Foreclosure Prevention Counselor, Diane Jasso was able to step in, not just to give information but real strategy, case management and guidance.

Diane identified the Mortgagee Optional Election (MOE) program (a lesser-known option that could allow Mrs. Villarreal to remain in her home for life). She guided the family through lender barriers, helped resolve legal challenges, and secured critical documents just three days before the deadline.

Today, we’re awaiting final approval that could allow Mrs. Villarreal to remain in her home for life.

Affordable housing isn’t only about building new units. Sometimes it’s about protecting the homes families already have. 
Your support makes success stories like this possible. Thank you.