Usually, the best time to buy a house is in the late summer or early fall — but 2020 is turning out to be anything but a usual year. With the economy expected to tip into a recession, homebuying is probably the last thing on many people’s minds. On the other hand, mortgage rates are […] A lot of people are struggling with unemployment or losses of income during shutdowns related to the COVID-19 pandemic. MVI staff members have compiled this list of tips and suggestions that may be helpful. What do I do if I can’t make my home loan or rent payment? If you have a mortgage and can’t […] I hope everyone is staying safe and healthy in these uncertain times. I just wanted to reach out and remind everyone about the importance of the 2020 Census. Historically, the Mon Valley region has been under-counted, impacting funding for schools, roads, emergency services and other vital resources. While Allegheny, Washington and Westmoreland counties are reporting […] MVI housing counselor offers tips, help for homeowners Homeowners who have been laid off due to the coronavirus pandemic should act quickly to see if mortgage payments and other bills can be temporarily deferred. That’s the advice of Jonathan Weaver, a housing counselor at Mon Valley Initiative, who says most lenders are willing to be […] Based on updated guidance from the Allegheny County and Pennsylvania health departments as well as the CDC, we will keep our Homestead and Charleroi offices closed to the public until at least May 8. However, we are open for business and are continuing to provide financial and employment coaching and housing counseling services both online […] The following is a message from Allegheny County Economic Development: Because of the need to take action to “flatten the curve” of the spread of COVID-19, Allegheny County Economic Development is cancelling two Needs Hearings scheduled for next week: Wednesday, March 18, 7 to 8 p.m., Harmar Township Municipal Building; and Thursday, March 19, 6 […] Jane Black, employment and financial coach in Mon Valley Initiative’s Mid-Mon Office, was surprised March 5 when representatives of the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation presented her with an OVR Business Award. Shown presenting the award to Jane (third from left) are Jeffrey Durmis and Joanne Slappo, both vocational rehabilitation counselors; and Danielle Dawgiello, vocational […] If you’re applying for a job — or doing almost anything — in 2020, you almost certainly need basic computer skills. (No, Facebook and texting aren’t enough!) At our computer lab in Homestead, we offer free, self-paced, individual instruction in keyboard and web basics, sending and managing email, creating files, using Microsoft Office applications (Word, […] If you’re looking for a job, Mancan McMurray is looking for you! Mancan represents several employers in the valley and is staffing Closetmaid for three shifts at its Rostraver Township location. Mancan will be at our Mid-Mon Office, 435 McKean Ave., Charleroi from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. this Wednesday (Dec. 18). Bring two forms […] For the third year in a row, Mon Valley Initiative wants to help local residents stop fumbling their finances, and instead develop winning strategies for saving money, buying a house and finding a better job. “Tackle Your Financial Goals III” is a free workshop on financial literacy. The event, featuring a football theme and door […]
Interest rates are at historic lows. Is it time to go house-hunting?
Q&A: What should I do if I can’t pay my bills?
Census response falling behind in Mon Valley towns
Laid off? Don’t wait to defer mortgage payments, counselor says
COVID-19 Update: We are open and ready to serve you
ACED cancelling public hearings next week
OVR surprises employment coach with award
Free computer literacy classes available
Mancan recruitment event Wednesday in Charleroi
Fun, free event Nov. 7 promotes smart financial choices
