For generations, owning a home has been one of the most effective ways for American families to build wealth, stability and long-term opportunity. But for far too many families, especially those who are Black and Latine, this opportunity remains out of reach.

Sustainable homeownership means giving people the tools and support they need to make informed decisions for long-term success.

That’s what housing counseling does. Usually working at nonprofit organizations, trained counselors certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) help individuals and families navigate every stage of the housing journey, from renting to buying to holding on to their homes during hard times.The advice of these counselors is unbiased, typically free and grounded in the best interests of families and communities. They help clients build budgets, improve credit, understand down-payment assistance programs and avoid scams.

When crises like illness or job loss strike, housing counselors are often the ones helping families avoid foreclosure.

This work has significant reach. HUD data shows that from October 2023 to September 2024, more than 4,600 HUD-certified counselors assisted more than........

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