Massachusetts homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure, among those in 26 other states and the District of Columbia, are getting help in the form of $1 billion in loans from the federal government.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), in conjunction with NeighborWorks America, have launched the Emergency Homeowners’ Loan Program (EHLP) to help assist homeowners who have experienced a reduction in income and are at risk of foreclosure due to involuntary unemployment, underemployment, economic conditions or a medical condition, according to a statement. HUD has allocated more than $61 million to fund the emergency loan program in Massachusetts.

Under EHLP program guidelines, eligible homeowners can qualify for an interest-free loan which pays a portion of their monthly mortgage for up to two years, or up to $50,000, whichever comes first.

"Through the Emergency Homeowners’ Loan Program the Obama administration is continuing our strong commitment to help keep families in their homes during tough economic times," said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. "Working with our community partners across the nation through NeighborWorks America, we are pleased to launch this program … to help families keep their homes while looking for work or recovering from illness."