Union Plus Mortgage Brings Peace of Mind to CWA Member

The Union Plus Mortgage Assistant Program helped CWA's Valerie Brown buy her dream home.

When Valerie Brown from Queens, NY, was nervous about buying her first home, she turned to her union, CWA, for advice on home ownership.

"I didn't want fears to keep me from doing something I really wanted to do — buy my own home. I knew that CWA members could take advantage of discounts and special programs, and I searched for union-backed mortgages on the internet. I found the Union Plus Mortgage Program and I learned I could save on closing costs and other protections for union members," says Brown. "I also liked that first-time homebuyers, like me, could be eligible for $500."

The Union Plus Mortgage Assistance Program was an important feature for Brown, who helps New York City residents feed their families through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as Food Stamps.

When she battled breast cancer a few years ago, she personally felt the vulnerability that comes when one can no longer work. "The thought of not being able to work is scary. I like the fact that the Union Plus Mortgage gives me peace of mind knowing that help will be available to me should I need it," she says.

Union members who experience unemployment or disability may qualify for interest-free loans to help with up to six monthly payments through the Union Plus Mortgage Assistance Program. Members who are on strike or locked out for 30 days or more may qualify for help with up to six monthly payments through grants that do not have to be repaid.

In addition, active and retired union members can apply for a $500 First-Time Homebuyer Award. After moving in last year, Brown made it a priority to tackle as many do-it-yourself projects as she could, including giving the home's interior a quick facelift with a fresh coat of paint. Inspired by her favorite home decorating television shows and a $500 check from Union Plus in hand, Brown was able to transform her house into a home.

Brown's 3-bedroom, 1 1/2 bath, single-family home is a dream come true. Friendly neighbors, summer barbecues and a 10-minute walk to work are the icing on the cake. "It's a good feeling when you work toward something, and you achieve it. It's nice to know that my house is mine. If I can do it, anyone can," says Brown.

Thinking about a new home of your own? Consider the Union Plus Mortgage Program. With savings on closing costs and security that no other mortgage program offers, it's the perfect mortgage — and it's only available for union members, their parents, and children.

Union Plus Mortgage Assistance is available to participants who have had their Union Plus mortgage for at least one year. Since the program's inception, over $9.3 million in mortgage assistance has been provided. To learn more about the Union Plus Mortgage, call 1-800-848-6466 or visit UnionPlus.org/Mortgage to find a loan officer near you.