Toms River believes its "Mortgage Foreclosure Rescue Plan" could help troubled homeowners weather the credit crisis and fulfill the township's affordable housing requirements.

The plan allows Toms River to reduce a family's mortgage by paying the bank some of what's owed, allowing homeowners in jeopardy of being foreclosed to pay less each month. The money would come from the affordable housing trust fund.

In exchange, homeowners would have to agree to have their deed amended to say the house will never be sold for more than affordable housing laws allow.

The Militos, a Toms River family two years behind on its mortgage, support the plan if it keeps their kids with a roof over their heads.

"It's not about making money," says Ed Milito. "It's about me having a home that [I] love with my family. It's the American dream."

A few steps must be taken before the program can be implemented. First the township council must pass the proposal, then it must be approved by a judge.