A lot of the region's homeowners are still hurting.

That's why Bank of America continues to reach out to delinquent borrowers by hosting foreclosure-prevention events, according to Jessica Garcia, vice president of Bank of America National Mortgage Outreach.

The lender will host a free event 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 14 and 15 at the Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey Hotel, 4650 Lindle Road, in Harrisburg. Specialists will be on hand to review customer finances and possibly create a payment plan suitable for their individual situations.

Bank of America has identified 8,600 customers, within 75 miles of the state capital, who are at least 60 days delinquent on their home loans, Garcia said.

The goal is to "sit down and help as many of those customers as possible" to make consistent payments they can afford and avoid the home foreclosure process, she said.

"We've found talking face-to-face is most effective," Garcia said.

Bank of America has modified more than 24,000 loan agreements since the recession hit in 2008. But nearly 27,000 of the bank's Pennsylvania borrowers remain delinquent, she said.

Common causes for late or missed payments include unemployment and underemployment, she said.

"One paycheck can make all the difference," Garcia said.

To help struggling customers, Bank of America specialists work to modify payment arrangements. Customers seeking such assistance are asked to bring their most recent tax returns, verification of income and proof of other debt - including everything from car loans to cellphone bills.

Specialists work with borrowers to establish an affordable payment agreement. Sometimes that means extending the term of the loan or changing the interest rate.

Other times, specialists have to help customers completely redo their budgets, eliminating unnecessary spending.

"Folks might have a new reality they haven't quite adjusted to," Garcia said.

To obtain assistance, Bank of America is asking customers to register for the event at www.bankofamerica.com/homeownerevent or by calling 1-855-201-7426.

- Candy Woodall can also be reached at cwoodall@yorkdispatch.com.