July 2, 2026

Greetings from OCCHC!

In between cheering on our favorite World Cup teams and celebrating their victories, the Orange County Community Housing Corporation (OCCHC) hosted its 5th Annual Housing Resource Fair during National Homeownership Month. The event welcomed more than 220 community members to a free day of education, resources, and support that was designed to connect individuals and families with trusted professionals and organizations who can help families navigate the path toward housing stability and homeownership.

As one of the few HUD-approved agencies in Orange County specializing in homeownership and housing counseling, OCCHC is committed to helping residents access the information and resources needed to achieve their housing goals. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with a variety of community partners and industry professionals offering fair housing information, rental and home buying guidance, down payment assistance programs, lending opportunities, refinance and HELOC resources, estate planning services, and consultations with HUD-certified housing counselors.

Representatives from the Mexican Consulate were also on-site to share information about available services, answer questions, and address common misconceptions. In addition, the Orange County Clerk-Recorder Department provided access to essential documents, while officers from the Santa Ana Police Department's Community Engagement Team connected with families, promoted neighborhood safety, and distributed free bicycle helmets to local youth.

The event also featured two educational workshops designed to help participants take the next steps toward homeownership. The City of Santa Ana presented its "My First Home" workshop, highlighting available down payment assistance programs for first-time homebuyers, while Habitat for Humanity hosted an orientation covering its homeownership opportunities. Beyond the educational resources, attendees enjoyed complimentary food, face painting, and raffle prizes, creating a fun and welcoming environment for all.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our sponsors, community partners, and the many individuals and organizations who helped make this event a success. Special thanks to U.S. Bank for serving as the event's title sponsor and to Santa Ana College for hosting our Housing Resource Fair on its campus for the past four years. Just like the World Cup is uniting our nations, your support is helping us unite our community with access to secure and stable housing for all. Thank you!

Since 1977, OCCHC/SteppingUP has remained committed to its mission

"to transition extremely low-income families towards greater self-sufficiency

by assisting them with housing and education".