Resource Center

Housing

Provided by the Office of Senator Tom Harkin

The Obama Administration's Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan

Housing Choices for Iowans

Decent housing has become unaffordable for many hard working families and the federal government has a role to play in the affordable housing debate. It can promote community goals of environmental protection, access for people with disabilities, and better transportation planning, in the context of their financial impact on home buyers.

According to the National Association of Homebuilders, housing comprises about one-tenth of the United States economy and the housing construction and remodeling industries employ approximately two million people each year. Currently, housing prices are influx across the country and access to affordable mortgages is a challenge for many American families.

I am pleased to let you know that Congress has approved an increase in one very important affordable housing program that I have championed over the years: the Federal Housing Administration's (FHA) single family mortgage insurance loan limits.

Through this program, millions of American families are able to achieve the dream of home ownership at no cost to taxpayers. The previous loan limits restricted a large number of families from participating in this valuable program. As a result of these changes, thousands of families with the ability to make the mortgage payments on a decent home are now able to make the purchase with a smaller down payment. This is a step to make home ownership a reality for more families.

The benefits of increased home ownership are countless. Enabling more families to live in homes they own boosts home construction, and certainly benefits our economy. Please be assured that I will continue my efforts to ensure that the dream of home ownership becomes a reality for more Iowans.

I hope that you will find this resource center on housing resources helpful. It provides the names and numbers of a host of local, state, and federal programs to help you with any housing questions, concerns, or problems that may arise.

Assistance for Persons with Disabilities

Department of Housing and Urban Development

The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development can provide you with information on HUD news and Fair Housing issues, as well as HUD initiatives. The HUD website contains general information on accessibility guidelines and the American with Disabilities Act, as well as links to other housing and disability websites.

US Housing and Urban Development
210 Walnut Street
Room 239 Federal Building
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone 515-284-4512
Fax 515-284-4743
Website: hud.gov

Iowa Able Foundation

The Iowa Able Foundation offers loans to Iowans who need to purchase assistive technology such as specialized computers or software, wheelchairs, communication devices, home modifications, vehicle modifications and other devices. For general information, contact:

Iowa Able Foundation
c/o State Public Policy Group
200 10th Street, Fifth Floor
Des Moines, IA 50309
515-243-2000
641-856-3350 TTY
Email: info AT iowable.org

For loan information or an application, contact:

The Abilities Fund
410 North 18th Street
Centerville, IA 52544
(888)222-8943
(641)856-3350 TTY
Email: prlind AT abilitiesfund.org

Iowa Compass

Iowa Compass provides information and referral for Iowans with disabilities and their families.

Iowa Compass
Room S295 Center for Disability and Development
100 Hawkins Drive
Iowa City, Iowa 52242-1011
Toll-Free: 800-779-2001 (voice and TTY)
Phone: 319-353-8777
Fax: 319-384-5139
Website: www.iowacompass.org

Iowa Protection and Advocacy Services

For low income persons who have a mental illness diagnosis. Information and referral to other services, advocacy and legal representation, except for criminal matters, divorce, wills, civil commitment, "fee generating" or "social work" services.

Iowa Protection and Advocacy Services
950 Office Park Road #221
West Des Moines, Iowa 50265
Phone: 515-278-2502 or 800-779-2502
Fax: 515-278-0539
Website: www.ipna.org

Assistance with Foreclosures

Many Iowa homeowners continue to make a good-faith effort to make their mortgage payments on time and stay in their homes, but they are not able to do so. The result is that home prices across the country have fallen and foreclosures have dramatically increased in many places. This vicious cycle has left homeowners struggling and financial institutions crippled. In response to the growing number of mortgage defaults and foreclosure, the Iowa Attorney's General office with the Iowa Mediation Center established the Foreclosure Hotline and urges Iowans to call if they are at risk of losing their home to foreclosure. The HUD approved housing counseling agencies in Iowa can provide advice on buying a home, renting, defaults, foreclosures, credit issues, and reverse mortgages.

Iowa Foreclosure Hotline:
1-877-622-4866
Website: www.iowa.gov/government/ag/latest_news/releases/sept_2007/Foreclosure_Hotline.html

List of HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agencies in Iowa:

Website: www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm?webListAction=search&searchstate=IA

Consumer Assistance

Federal Citizen Information Center

The Federal Information Center is a program of the US General Services Administration. It is a nationwide toll-free number that assists the public in accessing the government's information and services. Among the most common questions asked: how to obtain a US passport, how to learn about federal job opportunities locally and nationwide, copyrighting and patenting, consumer issues, and purchasing government seized and surplus property.

Phone: 888-878-3256
Website: pueblo.gsa.gov

USA Services

The Federal Citizen Information Center handles inquiries from citizens trying to find answers to their questions regarding the federal government. Additionally, the consumer action handbook is available through USA Services. This handbook can give you helpful advice about consumer questions or problems.

Phone: 800-333-4636
Website: info.gov

Consumer Credit Counseling

You can rebuild good credit by handling credit responsibly. Counseling services can help. Many organizations, including credit unions, Iowa State University Extension Service, family services, and religious organization, can offer assistance.

Federal Trade Commission

Copies of consumer education materials about credit scams are available form the FTC's web site. To find out the latest news as it is announced, call the FTC News Phone recording at 202-326-2710 or 202-326-2222.

Federal Trade Commission
Consumer Response Center
600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Room 130
Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202-382-4357
Fax: 202-326-2012
Website: ftc.gov

National Foundation for Consumer Credit (Greenpath)

One source of information for credit counseling is the NFCC. The foundation has 1,400 members that provide money management techniques, debt payment plans and educational plans to help consumers learn to use credit wisely. To locate the nearest NFCC call the toll-free number 24 hours a day. Many operate under the name of Consumer Credit Counseling.

Phone: 800-550-1961
Website: www.greenpath.com

Debt Counselors of America (Myvesta)

DCA is the nation's first, non profit, Internet based debt counseling service. It assists families with debt, credit, money and financial problems or difficulties.

Phone: 800-MY-VESTA (698-3782)
Website: myvesta.org

Consumer Protection Office

This office can provide many consumer tips, including information on identity theft.

Consumer Protection Office
Office of the Attorney General
1305 East Walnut Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
Phone:515/281-5926Fax:515/281-6771
Toll-Free: 1-888-777-4590
Email: consumer AT ag.state.ia.us
Website: iowa.gov

Disaster Information

When a presidential disaster has been declared, several federal programs become available to help victims in the recovery process. At that time, there will be an 800 number published where you can call and register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).Once you are registered, you will receive a packet of information to complete. Inspectors will then come and look at your home to determine the amount of damage it received. Homeowners may be eligible for low interest loans through the Small Business Administration. For more information about FEMA, check out their website.

If you live in a flood plain, you should have flood insurance on your property. If you have questions about the National Flood Insurance Program, you can call 800-720-1090.

Domestic Violence Shelters

Hotlines can connect you to domestic violence shelters and programs in your area.

  • Iowa Statewide Domestic Violence Hotline 800-942-0333
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline 800-799-SAFE

Fair Housing/ Housing discrimination

Federal law prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, family status, or disability. If you feel your rights have been violated as you attempt to rent or purchase a home or apartment you can file a fair housing complaint with your local Civil Rights Commission, the State Civil Rights Commission, or with the federal Housing and Urban Development Agency.

Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity

The Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity administers and enforces federal laws and establishes policies that make sure all Americans have equal access to the housing of their choice.

Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
United States Department of Housing and Urban Development
451 Seventh Street SW Room 5116
Washington, DC 20410-2000
Phone: 800-669-9777
TTD: 800-927-9276
Website: www.hud.gov

United States Department of Housing and Urban Development
210 Walnut Street Room 239
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Attention: Cynthia Ferrell
Phone: 515-284-4456

Iowa Civil Rights Commission

The mission of the Iowa Civil Rights Commission is to eliminate discrimination in Iowa. In the area of housing, the ICRC works with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to investigate and resolve fair housing complaints.

Iowa Civil Rights Commission
400 East 14th Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50319-1858
Phone: 515-281-4121 or 800-457-4416
Fax: 515-242-5840
Website: www.iowa.gov

Iowa Legal Aid

Iowa Legal Aid can provide services in the area of federally subsidized housing rights, eviction issues, remedying housing defects, discrimination, and certain community development issues.

Iowa Legal Aid
1111 9th Street Suite 380
Des Moines, Iowa 50314-2527
Phone: 515-243-2151 or 800-532-1275
Fax: 515-244-4618
Website: iowalegalaid.org

Federal Housing Resources

USDA Rural Development

USDA Rural Development operates federal loan programs designed to strengthen rural businesses, finance new and improved rural housing, develop community facilities, and maintain and create rural employment. Direct and/or guaranteed loans are available for housing, water and waste systems, rural businesses, community facilities and telecommunications. A limited amount of grant funds are also available for some programs. Their mission is to enhance the ability of people in rural areas to create, build, and sustain ventures within communities by building partnerships and investing financial and technical resources in areas where there is the greatest need. Programs include guaranteed and direct loans for single family home ownership, as well as multi-family and senior housing; home improvement and repair loans and grants; self-help housing; and housing preservation grants for rehabilitation and repair.

Rural Housing Service Programs (RHS)

Rural Housing Service Programs (RHS) loans and grants provide rural residents with decent, safe and sanitary housing and community facilities. RHS programs help finance new or improved housing to over 65,000 moderate, low or very low income families each year.

USDA Rural Development
210 Walnut Street
Room 873 Federal Building
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone: 515-284-4663
Fax: 515-284-4821
Website: rurdev.usda.gov

US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides a wide range of assistance for housing and community development. Within HUD, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insures home mortgage loans for home purchase or repair, or for seniors who wish to convert home equity into cash for an improved standard of living. HUD/FHA also insures mortgage loans on multifamily developments and care facilities developed with private financing. HUD provides rental assistance through privately owned housing, and public housing through participating cities and towns, for low and moderate income families and persons. HUD also provides Community Development Block Grants to states and cities for home repairs, community infrastructure improvements and much more, for the benefit of low and moderate income households and neighborhoods. HUD also provides funds to help shelter the homeless, and specially designed housing for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities.

HUD is a strong advocate for Fair Housing, with full investigative and enforcement responsibilities for the Fair Housing Act.

HUD offers many diverse program options, designed to help individuals and communities with specific needs and visions. To learn more about these options, access HUD's website At this site, click on "reading room" for general information. This site will also contain information on current program funding availability and application directions. This information is generally, but not always, available between the months of March and June. However, it is advisable to check HUD's website regularly throughout the year for current funding information. For more detailed and complete program-by-program information, access hud.gov.

US Housing and Urban Development
210 Walnut Street
Room 239 Federal Building
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone: 515-284-4512
Fax: 515-284-4743
Website: hud.gov

VA HOUSING

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides loan guaranties to mortgage lenders willing to make home loans to eligible veterans. Because of the VA's backing, most loans are made with little or no down payment. Loans are made to purchase homes, and to refinance existing mortgages. The Regional Loan Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, is the full-service office for VA home loan benefits in Iowa. The Regional Office in Des Moines processes property appraisals as well as manages and sells VA-owned properties.

VA Regional Office #1049
210 Walnut Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone: 800-827-1000
Fax: 515-323-7407
Email: desmoines.query AT vba.va.gov
Website: va.gov

Federal Housing Grant Programs

Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)

The state CDBG program is funded by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and is administered by the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED).The state has set aside 25% of CDBG funds for housing, which are combined with state HOME funds in what is called the IDED "Housing Fund."CDBG funds may be used for rehabilitation of owner- and renter-occupied housing, home buyer programs, property acquisition and in limited circumstance, new construction in qualifying communities.

Emergency Shelter Grant Program

Iowa Department of Economic Development administers this HUD program. It funds a variety of facilities and services for homeless persons and for homelessness prevention. It is available through annual competition among local governments on behalf of one or more shelters within their jurisdiction.

Home Investment Partnership Program (HOME)

HOME is a federal program dedicated to affordable housing for low-income persons. HOME funds projects in rehabilitation, acquisition, new construction, home-buyer assistance and rental assistance. IDED administers the HOME program in Iowa and the funds are available state-wide. Applications for HOME are made on a continual basis through the "Housing Fund." Local governments and private proprietary and nonprofit entities may apply.

Government Books on Housing Sales and Financing

Consumer Information Center - You may also order booklets by calling toll free 888-878-3256 or by fax 719-948-9724. There is a $2.00 fee for each order containing free booklets to help defray program costs.

Government Sponsored Enterprises

Federal Home Loan

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines enhances the competitiveness and financial strength of community-based financial institutions by ensuring they have adequate liquidity to meet the housing finance and community credit needs of neighborhoods in communities. The Des Moines Bank's district includes: Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota. Programs include the Affordable Housing Grant Program for projects targeting families at or below 80 percent of the area median income. The Community Investment Program (CIP) assists in funding both community development and affordable housing projects that impact families at or below 115 percent of the area median income. (CIP's priorities included single-family loans for rental or owner occupied housing for households at or below 115 percent of area median income and for the elderly; revitalization of communities and neighborhoods, including home improvement and rehabilitation or construction loans; weatherization or energy, etc.) The First Home Fund is an annual program that provides money for down payment, closing and rehabilitation costs for first-time home buyers in rural communities.

Federal Home Loan Bank
801 Walnut Street Suite 200
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone: 800-544-3452
Fax: 515-281-1270
Website: www.fhlbdm.com

Habitat for Humanity Affiliates in Iowa

Affiliate contact information is available on the Habitat for Humanity of Iowa website.

Home Repair Assistance

Polk County Elderly
Phone: 515-286-3679

Des Moines Community Development
Phone: 515-283-4182

Rural Areas of Iowa (IDED)
Phone: 515-242-4812

USDA Rural Development Section 504 Direct Loans
Phone: 515-284-4663

Iowa Housing Resources

State of Iowa

Iowa.Gov is an electronic gateway to Iowa's government, communities and industries. The network in designed to make the lives of Iowans easier by putting many government interactions online.

Iowa Department of Economic Development

The Iowa Department of Economic Development can provide you information on growing or developing your business, traveling to and around our great state, as well as helping Iowa communities grow.

Iowa Department of Economic Development
200 East Grand Avenue
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone: 515-242-4700
Fax: 515-242-4809
Email: info AT iowalifechanging.com
Website: iowalifechanging.com

Iowa Finance Authority

The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) is the state's largest financier of affordable housing for low to moderate income Iowans. IFA's home buyer programs assist families in Iowa to become homeowners by providing grants for down payment/closing cost assistance, below market rate loans and other incentives to reduce the amount of interest that is paid on a home loan through programs like FirstHome and FirstHome Plus. IFA administers the Low Income Housing Tax Credit program to construct and rehabilitate affordable rental housing throughout the state. In addition, IFA oversees the Housing Assistance Fund which targets loan and grants for a variety of housing projects throughout the state. IFA is committed to maximizing its resources and to encourage the development of creative public/private partnerships to increase the supply of affordable housing for Iowans.

Iowa Finance Authority
2015 Grand Avenue
Des Moines, Iowa 50312
Phone: 515-725-4900 or 800-432-7230
Fax: 515-725-4901
Website: www.ifahome.com/en/for_home_buyers/

Southern Iowa Regional Housing Authority (SIRHA)

Southern Iowa Regional Housing Authority (SIRHA) provides rent assistance or rent subsidy to low income individuals, families, elderly or disabled who meet qualifying program guidelines.

Southern Iowa Regional Housing Authority (SIRHA)
219 N. Pine Street
Creston, Iowa 50801
Phone: 641-782-8585
Website: www.sirha-ia.org

Low Income Legal Assistance

Iowa Legal Aid

This office can provide many consumer tips, including information on identity theft.

Iowa Legal Aid
1111 9th Street, Suite 230
Des Moines, IA 50314-2527
515-243-2151 or 800-532-1275 ext. 1631
Website: iowalegalaid.org

The Iowa Legal Aid Website has a directory listing offices that serve the county you are in.

LIHEAP

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is a federally-funded program designed to help eligible low income households meet their home heating and/or cooling needs.

Applications are accepted on a first come/first served basis at your local Community Action Agency from November 1 through April 1 (October 1 for households with elderly/disabled member), Monday through Friday, or as posted at the local Outreach/Community Action Agency office.

The LIHEAP program in your community will determine eligibility for the program and the availability of LIHEAP funds are not guaranteed. Most often in Iowa, these funds are spent during the winter. The program may be able to offer you assistance with bill payment, energy crisis help.

Any public inquiries can be expressed at: (515) 281-4204. You may also visit the Iowa Department of Human Rights website for additional information.

Nonprofit Agencies Housing Resources

Iowa Coalition for Housing and the Homeless

The Iowa Coalition for Housing and the Homeless is a statewide nonprofit agency consisting of low-income housing and homeless service providers, advocates and low-income and homeless individuals. Through policy development, technical assistance and education, the ICHH works to create structural changes that alleviate poverty and empower low-income individuals and their allies in advocating for change. The ICHH can provide information and referrals regarding housing and housing assistance, fair housing issues and tenant legal assistance.

Iowa Coalition for Housing and the Homeless
713 East Locust Street
Des Moines, Iowa 50309
Phone: 515-288-5022
Fax: 515-282-1810

Iowa Home Ownership Education Project

The Iowa Home Ownership Education Project is an alliance of organizations committed to establishing a statewide home ownership education and counseling initiative.

Iowa Home Ownership Education Project
P.O. Box 6200
8800 NW 62nd Avenue
Johnston, IA 50131
Phone: 515-286-4300
Fax: 515-280-4140
Website: www.ihoep.com

National Housing Trust

The National Housing Trust is a national nonprofit organization formed to preserve federally-assisted housing for low and moderate income use. The Trust's emphasis is on preserving federally-assisted and insured properties in jeopardy of being lost from the affordable housing stock and on resolving the problems of "troubled" projects that suffer from physical deterioration and/or financial and social distress. The Trust acts as a "hands on" intermediary, while at the same time communicating their experience in and lending expertise to policy makers. The Trust's activities fall into four categories: 1.) Technical assistance to local nonprofit organizations, resident associations and public agencies that are acquiring federally-assisted and insured development to preparing local preservation strategy; 2.) Research and education; 3.) Serving as an information clearinghouse on both LIHPRHA and HUD-assisted and insured "Mark to Market" properties; and 4.) Public policy development. In addition, the Trust recently launched a $2 million pre-development loan fund for acquisition of multifamily properties by nonprofit purchasers. The Trust will consider, on a selective basis, the purchase of HUD properties on its own behalf.

National Housing Trust
1101 30th Street NW Suite 400
Washington, D.C.20007
Phone: 202-333-8931
Fax: 202-833-1031
Website: www.nhtinc.org

Professional Association

These associations have the most up-to-date information on the local housing market.

Iowa Association of Realtors
1370 NW 114th Street
Suite 100515/453-1064
Clive, IA 50325
Fax: 515-453-1070

Iowa Manufactured Housing
1400 Dean Avenue
Des Moines, Iowa 50316
Phone: 515-265-1497
Website: www.manufacturedhousing.org

Iowa Landlord Association
Phone: 515-270-2796

Public Housing and Rental Assistance

Affordable Housing

Affordable Housing Online can help you find Section 8 housing rentals, low income housing, and senior housing.

Local Area Housing and Rental Assistance

Your local area housing commission ensures safe, decent, and affordable housing, and creates opportunities for residents' self-sufficiency. To locate your area housing commission, please visit the US Department of Housing and Urban Development website.

You may also wish to contact your County Department of Human Services (DHS) office. DHS can put you in touch with local housing agencies that may be able to provide vouchers as well as other housing assistance.

Landlord Tenant Disputes

Des Moines Area
Mediation Services are provided by:
HOME Inc,
1111 9th Street Suite 210
Des Moines, Iowa 50314-2527
Phone: 515-243-1277

Legal Aid of Polk County
Phone: 515-243-2151

STATEWIDE
Iowa Legal Aid
1111 9th Street Suite 230
Des Moines, Iowa 50314-2527
Toll-Free: 800-532-1275
Phone: 515-243-2151
Fax: 515-244-4618
Website: www.iowalegalaid.org

Resources for Renters

Community Action Agency

Community Action Agencies serve the needs of low income Iowans. Community Action can help you meet your needs in finding long-term solutions to poverty in five areas: coordinating assistance, housing, family support, education and training, and employment. There are 18 regions. The Iowa Department of Human Rights has a directory to help you locate the office nearest you.

Safe Neighborhoods

Whether you live in an apartment building or own your own home, you will want to live in a safe neighborhood. There is city, state and national groups/agencies that can help you with your questions or in organizing a neighborhood watch association to meet your common goals. Your local police department or community development department should be able to inform you if there is an existing neighborhood watch or neighborhood association. The following agencies could provide some useful information:

Iowa Crime Prevention Association, Inc
321 Walnut St
P.O. Box 160
Desoto, IA 50069-0160
Toll-Free: 800-355-IOWA
Phone: 515-834-9036
Email: iowacrimeprevention AT hotmail.com

National Crime Prevention Council
Website: www.ncpc.org

Governor's Office on Drug Control Policy

GASA coordinates and monitors all statewide narcotics enforcement efforts, state and federal substance abuse treatment grants and programs, and statewide prevention and education programs in communities and schools. The Iowa SAFE (Substance Abuse Free Environment) Community Program is a community mobilization program which serves as a catalyst to help communities to develop a coordinated multifaceted approach to reducing substance abuse at the community level. The centerpiece of the SAFE program is the cooperation and coordination among all segments of the community.

Governor's Office on Drug Control Policy
Lucas State Office Building
321 East 12th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone: 515-242-6391
Website: www.iowa.gov

The National Association of Town Watch

Neighborhood Association Tool Kit - A basic "how-to" guide for neighborhood associations. This kit includes information on such topics as leadership, meetings, committees, communication tools, finances, stumbling blocks, neighborhood plan guidelines, sample agendas, sample minutes, sample fliers, and publisher information.

The National Association of Town Watch
1 Wynnewood Road, Suite 102
PO Box 303
Wynnewood, PA 19096
Toll-Free: 800-NITE-OUT
Phone: 610-649-7055
Email: info AT natw.org
Website: www.nationaltownwatch.org

National Center for Neighborhood Enterprise

NCNE's mission is to empower neighborhood leaders to promote solutions that reduce crime and violence, restore families, revitalize low-income communities, and create economic enterprise.

National Center for Neighborhood Enterprise
1424 Sixteenth Street NW
Washington, DC 20036-2211
Phone: 202-518-6500
Fax: 202-588-0314

Weatherization Assistance Program

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federal grant program established to help reduce the heating and cooling costs for low income persons, particularly the elderly, disabled, and children, by improving the energy efficiency of their homes. The WAP has developed from a program that stressed low cost, temporary measures installed by volunteers, to a program that uses trained crews and contractors to install permanent cost effective measures that address both the building shell and the heating and cooling systems in the dwelling.

The installation of energy efficiency measures for each dwelling is based on a computerized energy audit which determines the cost effectiveness of each measure. Energy efficiency measures include high density wall and attic insulation and blower door - guided infiltration reduction. Because the weatherization procedures result in "tightening" homes, indoor air quality and other client health and safety issues are also addressed. Health and safety measures include safety checks of all combustion appliances.

Besides the obvious benefit of conserving energy, the Iowa WAP also provides other benefits to Iowa and its residents. The program results in millions of dollars of additional value added to the Iowa economy. The program also mitigates certain health and safety problems in the client's homes, maintains affordable housing for low-income persons, reduces utility averages, and reduces environmental pollution.

For more information, see below or visit the following sites: