MADISON, Wis. –  Today, the Treasurers’ Homeowners Task Force met virtually to discuss how to help Wisconsinites stay in their homes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The public health crisis has affected nearly every aspect of daily life, and the economic impact has heightened the importance of the task force’s goals to decrease delinquencies and prevent foreclosures. 

“Before COVID-19, many homeowners were already facing challenges, particularly seniors and people of color,” said State Treasurer Sarah Godlewski. “When this pandemic hit, this coalition immediately began to work on ways we could mitigate the impact and help people keep their homes.”  

The public health crisis has laid bare already existing inequalities which the task force will also work to address in the coming months. Community housing advocates have discussed how the impact will affect both already vulnerable populations, as well as a newly affected population of people grappling with their ability to pay their mortgage because of a recent job loss or decrease in hours.  

“We know this pandemic is going to have a long-lasting impact, and the sooner we can connect people with resources and support the more likely they will be able to stay in their homes,” Godlewski said. “We are developing ways to help local treasurers connect with taxpayers to ward off foreclosure. If we’re able to help bridge the gap, we can help Wisconsinites get back on their feet and keep their homes.” 

Governor Evers took swift action banning evictions and foreclosures for 60 days, and the work of the Treasurers’ Homeowners Task Force will continue the all-hands-on-deck effort to support Wisconsinites through this public health crisis. 

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