The Florida Supreme Court issued an Administrative Order on December 28, 2009 which "provided for each judicial circuit to create a residential mortgage foreclosure mediation" program. This mandated mediation program, allows the borrower/homeowner and the lender to  take advantage of an opportunity to discuss loan modification or other settlement options, such as a short sale or deed-in-lieu; and gives the homeowner assistance in obtaining a mediation date. Two program managers were selected for this area, foreclosures filed after July 1, 2010 in Pinellas & Pasco counties will receive notice from Mediation Managers, Inc. (MMI) Those homeowners in Hillsborough county will receive notice from the Hillsborough County Bar Association. This mediation program has been reported in local newspapers, however, many homeowners in a financially distressed situation may not have seen the article in the newspaper and can be confused by numerous letters and offers received in their mailbox daily. Homeowners will be required to submit financial documents and attend financial counseling. www.mediationmanagersinc.com  for those in Pinellas & Pasco counties, the MMI web site offers answers to many frequently asked questions, phone and email contact information, as well as a complete explanation of the program.  Those in Hillsborough will find program details on www.hillsbar.com  by clicking on 'residential mortgage foreclosure program'. Please be sure to give this information to any friends or family members facing this financial hardship and possible loss of their homes ... they will appreciate the assistance you have offered. And I am also available to answer questions and provide phone numbers, etc. for these programs.