State officials introduced the “Save the Dream” billboard advertisements at a news conference in Columbus.

The billboards promote the Save the Dream campaign – the State’s foreclosure prevention effort -- and encourage Ohioans who are possibly facing foreclosure to call the Save the Dream hotline at 888-404-4674 or visit the campaign’s website at www.savethedream.ohio.gov. The billboards complement the “Save the Dream” multi-media campaign, which also includes radio and television advertisements being run statewide.

Lt. Governor and Director of Development Lee Fisher, Director of Commerce Kimberly Zurz, Treasurer Richard Cordray, and Attorney General Nancy Rogers encouraged Ohioans facing the possibility of foreclosure to take action to save their dream of homeownership.

In June, RealtyTrac reported that Ohio was sixth among the states in the rate of foreclosures.

“The State of Ohio is focused on doing everything we can to help Ohioans stay in their homes,” said Lt. Governor Fisher. “The Save the Dream campaign directs Ohioans to the information and organizations they need to contact and work with to save their homes.”

Lt. Governor Fisher advised homeowners concerned about foreclosure to immediately contact their mortgage loan servicer, obtain information on the Save the Dream website, call the hotline, and work with a HUD-approved housing counselor and/or a pro bono or Legal Aid attorney.

The approximately 300 billboards are appearing at locations throughout the state during the months of July and August. The billboards are planned to appear in the counties with the highest foreclosure rates as well as some rural counties. Marion County will be included in the campaign.