State Employees' Credit Union is helping its members stay in their homes through its new mortgage assistance program.Members who may be in delinquency or possible foreclosure or anticipate a loss of income in the near future can meet in person with a SECU senior officer to develop an individualized financial plan. Employees help members look at options such as mortgage loan extensions, mortgage loan modifications or refinances and partial payment alternatives. Budgeting, financial counseling and overall debt restructuring are also part of the program."As unemployment rates continue to rise and the job market wanes, more members are facing the difficult task of paying bills with less income. Some are facing home foreclosure and SECU will do everything we can to keep that from happening," said Phil Greer, senior vice president of SECU's loan administration department.Since the program started in February, SECU has helped over 1,400 members with loan balances totaling close to $140 million. In many cases, members were able to reduce their mortgage rate by two to three percentage points, which in some cases decreased monthly payments by several hundred dollars.In addition to the program, SECU developed a new product, the SECURE Mortgage, to give members the option of consolidating their SECU mortgage balances and any other loans owed to SECU under the security of a low-interest first mortgage loan.Financing may be up to 100% of the value of the member's primary residence. Also, funds up to $5,000 may be advanced to set up an emergency savings account to add peace of mind and promote savings.–[email protected]