OUT of the mainland came news this week that many Americans are putting their homeownership dreams on hold. Others, who’ve seen the value in their homes decline over the last few years, no longer think owning a home is as important to the American Dream as it used to be.

In Georgia, for example, a survey by the state’s Credit Union Association showed about one-sixth of members are putting their dreams of owning their own home on hold. They say while owning a home used to be important, it is no longer a current goal. Surveys elsewhere in the country reveal a similar shift in attitude.

Here on Guam, however, the Calvo administration is encouraging the dream with affordable housing projects and, this week, a plan that will provide up to $10,000 to first-time home buyers to assist them with closing costs, which along with a down payment are the most difficult hurdles to overcome, even for working Guamanians who earn enough otherwise to qualify.

“It’s really hard for struggling families working toward purchasing a home,” said Gov. Eddie Calvo in a news conference, during which the initial families to be helped by the program were announced. “I’m so proud to stand with these families today,” the governor added. “The home is the center of every family and we are working to help everyone achieve the dream of owning a home.”

Calvo was on hand as five grant recipients took advantage of the First Time Homeowners Assistance Program, which provides money for mortgage fees and closing costs for qualified applicants. The program is funded by the Housing Trust Fund Program, through the Guam Housing Corporation which has $500,000 for the grants.

Sen. Tina Muña-Barnes, a partner in the governor’s affordable housing vision, was also there to watch the program being launched. She said she was proud to work across the aisle with this Republican administration in turning affordable housing into a reality. “It’s about building dreams and giving families the opportunity – that little bit of extra help – to make it happen,” said the senator, a Democrat.

There are lots of promises being made and charges being leveled against political opponents in this election year. So it was nice to see a bit of cooperation between the Legislature and the administration in this laudable area. Whether it’s Habitat for Humanity or loans for veterans or a program such as this to help with closing costs, when the government and our elected officials come together on a worthwhile project such as this, they deserve praise.

If you’d like more information on this program, call the Guam Housing Corporation at 647-4143.