The city of Oakley will be hosting a free seminar for those facing foreclosure. The seminar will be held Wednesday, May 28 at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall.

The city is pleased to host this meeting that will give residents information about dealing with foreclosure, said Oakley Mayor Bruce Connelley. This is a tough time for many families and we want to make convenient access to the many resources out there to help them.

With foreclosures on the rise, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is reaching out to people concerned about losing their homes and has partnered with cities and several nonprofit organizations to provide counseling and other services to those facing foreclosure.

On hand for the seminar in Oakley will be HUD representatives, the Community Housing Development Corporation, Bay Area Legal Aid and HERA Housing and Equal Rights Advocates. Attendees will learn how foreclosures work, receive tips on avoiding scams and fraud, review options to help avoid foreclosure and discuss realistic objectives for those dealing with the foreclosure process. Counselors and other housing experts will be on hand.

If you are facing possible foreclosure, get help immediately, said Connelley. Contact your lender. Access the many resources that are out there. I am convinced that many people will be able to stay in their homes and get through this storm. This seminar is one way to help.