'Hope' for holders of student loans

Utah Higher Education Assistance Authority has launched a "Ray of Hope" program for student-loan holders who are experiencing financial challenges or foresee difficulty making payments. It allows qualified borrowers to temporarily reduce a monthly payment or defer it.

"We recognize that downsizing, budget cuts and hiring freezes are making it difficult for borrowers to make their payments. We want to do whatever we can to help them. In times like these when jobs and homes may be at risk, we're trying to do everything we can to help students manage their education debt," says UHEAA executive director David Feitz.

To learn about options, call 801-321-7294 or 877-336-7378 Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., or Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.