Following an article on predatory lending that appeared in the November 9 edition of The Queens Courier, Mary Louissaint got action.
For Cambria Heights resident Mary Louissaint, rescue came in a technicality. With the help of Peggy Morris, executive director of Jamaica Housing Improvement, Inc., Louissaint discovered that the last possible day to overturn her eviction was scheduled the day after a holiday, giving her extra time to combat the ruling. After Louissant paid delinquent fees with money she had saved while Morris looked into her case, the 66-year-old grandmother had her eviction overturned.
In addition, Louissaint and Morris continued to look into whether Premiere Mortgage had included fraudulent information within the deed transfer contract.
Louissaint, who lives with her 9-year-old and 27-year-old grandsons (the elder is currently stationed in Iraq) for now will be allowed to remain in the two-story house that she purchased with her husband 29 years ago.
“As far as I know I don't have to move out,” she said. But unless a fair contract can be worked out, Louissaint must come up with about $2000 every month for her rent payments. On her fixed budget, she is unsure about how she will be able to do this.
Morris is currently seeking aid from local politicians and South Brooklyn Legal Services to call attention to the case.
She hopes that Louissaint's contract is in violation of 2003 state law aimed to reduce predatory lending.
“The problem is still festering, and we need help,” Morris said.
