AVON PARK, FL, October 16, 2025  — The NTLA Foundation, dedicated to preserving homeownership for those with financial hardship that are facing property tax foreclosure, has once again stepped in to protect a veteran from losing his home. This time, the Foundation stepped in to help Mr. Hastings, a Vietnam War veteran who proudly served our country, stay in his Avon Park, Florida home by resolving his outstanding property tax debt.

Thanks to the swift action and collaboration between the NTLA Foundation and Highlands County Tax Collector Eric Zwayer, Mr. Hastings was able to retain ownership of his home, a place he has cherished for decades. This critical intervention reflects the Foundation’s ongoing mission to act as a lifeline for vulnerable homeowners in crisis.

“Our mission is simple: to help those who need it most. And when private organizations, investors, and local government come together, good things happen. Real lives are changed,” said Brad Westover, Executive Director of the National Tax Lien Association, which supports the NTLA Foundation.

Eric Zwayer, Highlands County Tax Collector, echoed that sentiment. “Today isn’t just about clearing a tax debt. It’s about restoring dignity, peace, and stability for someone who has already given so much for our country.”

Mr. Hastings, like many veterans on fixed incomes, found himself unable to meet the rising cost of living and was on the brink of losing his home from a few years of unpaid property taxes. The NTLA Foundation’s timely assistance provided not only financial relief, but also renewed hope and security.  Going forward, Mr. Hastings has significantly reduced his annual property tax obligations with his homestead exemption and his military disability exemption.  

The NTLA Foundation has saved homeownership and helped prevent homelessness for residents in Arizona, Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Missouri.  Every penny donated to the Foundation goes directly to saving homeowners with no administrative cost.  Westover estimates that $225,000 in annual in donations would fund every elderly or disabled hardhsipped homeowner in America from property tax foreclosure.  Donations can be made at NTLA Foundation Donations.