Montie Barham, 75, says he fears losing the Oklahoma home he has lived in for 20 years. News reports say foreclosure proceedings have advanced, but they differ on the home's location and the amount needed to stop a sale. KOKH reported that a sale was expected in about 30 days.
The accounts differ on key details. According to KOKH, Barham's home is in Ochelata and $193,000 is needed to stop the sale. NewsOn6 describes the property as being in Barnsdall and quotes Barham saying he needs $200,000 within 30 days. The reports do not resolve the discrepancy.
KOKH reported that Barham said he does not want to ask people for help and described the home as past foreclosure and expected to be sold in roughly a month.
What Reports Say About Barham's Finances and Health
Barham worked in construction for more than 50 years. KOKH reported that the IRS took his equipment, worsening his financial difficulties.
NewsOn6 reported that Agent Orange poisoning and a hereditary lung condition contributed to Barham falling behind on mortgage payments, as his health declined.
Esther Coker, a family friend and fellow veteran, is working to bring together fundraisers, resources and area lawmakers to help the Barhams. NewsOn6 identified Coker as an American Legion adjutant.
Fundraising Effort
Coker said Barham received two Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars and an Air Medal. As reported by KTUL, she organized a GoFundMe campaign and said paying the mortgage in full is the only way he can keep the home.
KTUL also reported that Coker sees crowdfunding as a possible way to raise the money in time.
What the Sheriff's Office Listing Shows
The Washington County Sheriff's Office, which handles sheriff sales in the area, says on its website that the plaintiff must submit a notice of recall before a scheduled sale date. As of this writing, the office's public page states, according to the Washington County Sheriff's Office, “There are no Sheriff Sales posted.” That listing does not establish the status of Barham's specific property.
VA Help for Veterans Facing Foreclosure
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs says Veterans and surviving spouses can receive foreclosure-avoidance counseling even if their mortgage is not VA-guaranteed. That guidance does not establish whether Barham has contacted the VA or qualifies for any particular assistance.
Separately, VA News says Supportive Services for Veteran Families grants help local nonprofits serve very low-income Veterans at risk of losing housing; services can include temporary mortgage assistance. The information does not establish whether Barham is eligible.
The family is relying on community support and Coker's GoFundMe effort while the reported deadline approaches. The available sheriff-sale listing does not confirm whether a sale for Barham's home is scheduled.
