Franklin Square, NY – Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, in partnership with the Office of New York State Attorney General Letitia James, hosted a comprehensive Homeowners and Housing Workshop on September 21st at the Franklin Square Public Library. This community-focused event was designed to provide crucial guidance and support to homeowners, tenants, landlords, and ratepayers navigating housing-related challenges, with an emphasis on affordability, legal protections, and available assistance programs.

The workshop featured a diverse group of housing service organizations, utility advocacy groups, and state agencies, all dedicated to equipping residents with the tools they need to secure and maintain stable housing. Among the organizations participating were Long Island Housing Services, the Public Utility Law Project of New York, the State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA), National Grid, and Community Development Long Island. Attendees were able to connect directly with experts, receive free informational materials, and learn about programs tailored to address a range of housing needs, from foreclosure prevention to energy assistance.

One of the primary topics covered at the event was the growing issue of deed theft, a form of fraud that disproportionately impacts vulnerable homeowners, often those in financial distress or the elderly. Representatives from the Office of Attorney General James provided in-depth presentations on how to recognize, prevent, and respond to deed theft scams. These fraudulent schemes involve scammers using deceitful tactics to transfer ownership of a property by tricking homeowners into signing documents that unknowingly relinquish their property rights.

To combat this predatory practice, recent legislation has strengthened the Attorney General’s ability to prosecute deed theft, classifying it as a serious criminal offense. Attendees were given detailed guidance on how to safeguard their property titles and were informed about the legal avenues available to them should they encounter such threats.

“Housing affordability and security are urgent concerns for countless Long Islanders,” said Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages. “This workshop was an opportunity to connect residents with the resources and protections they deserve. I am deeply grateful to Attorney General James and our local housing advocates for coming together to empower our community with knowledge and support. Housing is more than just shelter – it’s a foundation for stability and opportunity. As we face an affordability crisis, I am committed to ensuring that no one is left behind.”

“Every homeowner should know how to protect themselves and their homes from deed theft,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James. “In addition to advancing new laws that will strengthen our ability to prosecute deed theft and protect New Yorkers’ most valuable assets, my office has secured numerous convictions to stop the perpetrators of this heartless crime. New Yorkers work their entire lives to afford a home, and they should feel secure knowing their property is protected. I thank Assemblymember Solages for her work to spread awareness of deed theft, and I was proud to lend my office’s support to help educate New Yorkers about how to stop it.”

In addition to addressing fraud prevention, the workshop also provided attendees with a wealth of information on housing assistance programs available through state and local agencies. Long Island Housing Services offered insights into tenant and homeowner rights, foreclosure prevention strategies, and rent assistance options. The Public Utility Law Project of New York presented on how ratepayers can manage utility costs, and SONYMA shared details on mortgage assistance and financing options for first-time homebuyers. National Grid discussed energy-saving programs, while Community Development Long Island highlighted services to support community development, affordable housing, and home rehabilitation projects.

Throughout the event, community members expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn directly from experts and advocates, gaining a clearer understanding of the resources and protections available to them. The workshop fostered an atmosphere of support and engagement, with many attendees leaving with actionable steps to address their housing challenges and enhance their financial security.

As housing costs continue to rise and the risk of fraudulent practices like deed theft increases, Assemblywoman Solages reaffirmed her commitment to working with state and local partners to advocate for stronger housing protections, expanded affordability programs, and increased access to legal support for homeowners and tenants alike. Her office will continue to hold similar workshops in the future to ensure that Long Islanders have the tools they need to safeguard their homes and financial well-being.