With the number of home foreclosures possibly on the rise, struggling homeowners are turning to the Long Island Housing Partnership for help.

Suffolk Executive Steve Levy encourages homeowners who run into financial trouble to contact LIHP. Foreclosures in Suffolk are expected to rise from 4,000 in 2005 to as many as 10,000 in 2008. "This program is helping to provide bridge loans to get them by," Levy said.

Matilda Amico, of Mastic, fell seven months behind in her mortgage payments before reaching out to LIHP. Amico, a single mother, said she suffered financially when her hours were cut at work. LIHP counseled Amico on her finances and helped her procure a loan. Upon receiving the loan, Amico said she "literally cried for joy." Amico is now current on her mortgage payments.

To watch the complete interview with Matilda Amico, recipient of a Long Island Housing Partnership loan, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.

Related Information:Foreclosure Prevention Hotline - 631-853-4800