The two-day Border Economic Summit wrapped up Thursday with business and financial leaders from across the country getting together in McAllen to focus on improving the local economy.
It all boils down to helping struggling families get ahead.
The future is looking bright for Greta Ramirez, ever since she got the keys to her new house in San Juan last year, thanks to the National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders.
"You know we got our house for Christmas so we had the best Christmas," said Ramirez.
The Ramirez family home was no gift but they certainly got a helping hand.
NALCAB hosted over 150 industry leaders and federal officials Thursday, to share ideas on improving living conditions for low income valley families.
Housing and Urban Development official Mercedes Marquez has secured over $7 billion dollars nationally, for communities in need.
"The border region is probably ground zero for foreclosure crisis in all of Texas," said Marquez.
One of the issues: families that can not afford to make their mortgage payments and in Ramirez's case, simply do not qualify for reasonable interest rates.
"When we went and applied at other places for getting a house there were big rates," said Ramirez.
Robert Calvillo with Affordable Homes of South Texas says the non-profit group makes it easier for people like Ramirez to find a home they can afford.
"If we can help them with credit report a lot of times that's what’s causing probably why they cant get a loan in the private sector. We have credit counselors work with them and get them qualified so they can get into a house," said Calvillo.
"When they give you the keys it feels great because you're investing your money into something that will one day belong to you and your family," said Ramirez.
The idea: if struggling families can get ahead they'll be able to contribute to the local economy.
Qualifying for assistance with affordable homes like Ramirez did... depends on the number of people in your household and your income.
Click here to go to the Affordable Homes of South Texas website
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