Lt. Governor Becky Skillman is committed to helping Hoosiers realize the American dream of home ownership. Thanks to the leadership of Governor Mitch Daniels and Lt. Gov. Skillman, Indiana is overcoming its challenges and restoring our heritage as a great place to live, work and raise a family. As the Hoosier economy continues to grow through new jobs, the work of building strong communities, providing affordable housing options and creating prosperity for each Hoosier has become even more important.

In 2007, under Becky�s leadership, the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) granted $18 million for the rehabilitation and new construction of affordable housing and community projects, resulting in an estimated 600 additional jobs and more than $100 million in local income and wages.

Through the state�s First Home Program, qualifying Hoosiers acquire below market interest rate loans on 30-year fixed rate mortgages. In 2007, more than 2700 Hoosiers were given the opportunity to become first-time homeowners through this program.

Last year, Becky announced an expansion of the First Home program designed to give back to the veterans who have given so much in service to this country. Now, Hoosier veterans can use the program on any home they purchase, not just their first home.

Another program that helps Hoosiers put a safe and affordable roof over their heads is the Affordable Housing and Community Development Fund. Becky is proud that the fund has provided $19 million in loans and $1.5 million in grants, to develop more than 1,400 affordable housing units. Every dollar of that money is leveraged for $5 in other funds, generating 1,600 new jobs, $52 million in new wages, and $83 million in income for other industries.

Last year, Lt. Governor Skillman supported legislation that increased funding to continue the important work of the Development Fund. Last fall, Becky announced the launch of a major statewide initiative to assist Hoosiers who are in danger of losing their homes. Under her leadership, the Indiana Foreclosure Prevention Initiative was developed by a coalition of lenders, banks, community organizations and housing-related agencies known as the Indiana Foreclosure Prevention Network (IFPN). Through this unique partnership of the public, private and nonprofit sectors, a toll-free helpline, 1-877-GET-HOPE, and a website, www.877gethope.org, were established. They provide free, confidential financial counseling with no obligation or commitment. Thousands of Hoosiers have already accessed this resource and are working to stay in their homes.

Becky Skillman believes that all Hoosiers deserve a safe, affordable place to live. To make that vision a reality, she has worked with nonprofit organizations to fight homelessness, supported IHCDA�s efforts to fund affordable housing and provide help and advice to first-time homebuyers, and led an initiative to stop foreclosure in our state in its tracks. Becky will continue to work hard to help Hoosiers achieve the American dream: a home to call their own.