Avoiding the Ostrich Syndrome

Greater Boston is one of nine US regions targeted for a new foreclosure prevention program by a partnership of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and Neighborworks America, national nonprofit that encourages home ownership. The goal: Find and help struggling homeowners before they end up in foreclosure. "The worst thing for them to do is put their heads in the sand and think its going to go away,'' said Douglas Robinson, spokesman for Neighborworks.

Robinson said the partnership is targeting Greater Boston area because foreclosure activity is brisk and Neighborworks has several affiliates in the region. The partnership will work with regulators, government officials, financial institutions, community groups and homeowners to develop prevention strategies. The other areas targeted in the program are: Wilmington, Del.; Baltimore; Chicago; Kansas City; Los Angeles; South Texas; Louisiana and Mississippi Gulf Coasts; and Alabama's Black Belt.