DENVER -- President Barack Obama's $75 billion plan to slow down foreclosures has dramatically increased the calls to the state's foreclosure hot line.

Distressed callers are being told that while many of the details are still being worked out by the White House, concerned property owners should continue to gather their paperwork and prepare for new negotiations.

Stephanie Riggi with Brothers Redevelopment, which runs the hot line, also cautioned people to reject the help of companies that charge a fee.

She said free help is widely available.

Sandra Baca is proof that foreclosure assistance can work for some families. She got the help of a foreclosure counselor after losing her job last summer.

Her mortgage was cut in half.

She was able to keep her home, and while she looks for work, she is a volunteer counselor for others facing foreclosure. She spent a part of Thursday painting her kitchen.

"It's mine and now I can fix it up and put money into it and live comfortably," she said with a smile.