<p>MADISON, Wis. – The National Credit Union Foundation is preparing to file applications for two programs that will allow leagues and credit unions to obtain federal funding, through NCUF, to support credit union programs in homeownership counseling and increased access to affordable financial services. By applying to become a certified homeownership counseling national intermediary through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Homeownership Counseling Program, NCUF will be eligible to compete for federal funds for CU homeownership counseling programs. NCUF is also preparing an application for up to $2 million in funding through the U.S. Treasury Departments First Accounts program that provides financial incentives to depository institutions and CUs to expand financial services to low and moderate-income consumers who currently to not have access to financial services. NCUF is seeking immediate input from leagues and credit unions on both initiatives by March 5. Gary Officer, NCUF executive director, said the federal funding initiatives represent an extraordinary opportunity to leverage public support for the very important work credit unions are performing in their communities.</p>