Programs set to help first-time home buyers

The Elgin Community Network and the NHS of the Fox Valley will offer two October programs and new initiatives designed to bolster first-time home buyers and lagging areas of the city.

NHS of the Fox Valley is now offering home buyer education classes in both English and Spanish.

This four-class curriculum is offered from 6 to 8 p.m. starting today at The Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way. Classes alternate each week between English and Spanish. Potential home buyers can register for these free classes by calling (800) 660-1995.

In addition, the new NHS Fox Valley is partnering with the Elgin Community Network in hosting two upcoming seminars designed to help homeowners reduce winter energy costs.

The free sessions are scheduled at 6 p.m. Thursday at The Centre, and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. Home improvement experts will discuss ways to maximize winter energy savings while learning about loans and other financial assistance from NHS of the Fox Valley.

If you would like to get involved with NHS of the Fox Valley's Neighborhood Advisory Council, call John Groene at (847) 695-0399 or (773) 329-4170.

Advisory council members will assess Elgin neighborhoods and recommend investment strategies to bolster the area's appearance and percentage of homeowners compared to renters.