Members D.E. and A.E. write... October 17,2011
"To “My Team” at OCCA With “Thanksgiving” having just passed and this testimonial being a little late, it comes at a time when making my list of things to be ‘thankful’ for; one is OCCA.To start off, I got myself in major trouble financially. Circumstances leading to this poor management of money was due to after having a job for 22 years, I was let go in 2005. I was in shock. However, with making the money I did, I didn’t have to worry about being in debt, I always managed to pay the interest and keep the creditors happy. However, not having that job and definitely not knowing how to manage money, a lot less money, I hit rock bottom totally drowning in debt and didn’t know where to turn, absolutely didn’t know what to do. At the time, May of 2009, OCCA had been sending out phone surveys and I contacted them. I was a mess. I handed over my list of creditors and OCCA dug right in. I was so fortunate in that they had never been involved with debt this large and they still took me on.I was set up with a team that was just phenomenal. Stephen was there every step of the way; through the tears, anxiety attacks, the fear of what was going to happen to me and just plain not knowing what to do or understanding a lot of things being in this situation. Dave was his back up and if Stephen wasn’t able to be there, Dave was making me feel at ease. Being over 60 and having gone through this dramatic situation, I have learned to manage money better in that everything has to be paid for with cash. Every time I make a purchase, I constantly ask myself if I need it or not. There are things that we get blind sided with, for example the brakes going on the car and not expecting to be hit with a $940.00 bill. There are things we are still ‘nursing’ hoping to buy more time, for example the fridge has two containers in it collecting water that has to be dumped every day. Of course, at the top of the list are things like the utilities. Although, I do things like work all day, sit in the dark at night, do laundry on Sunday’s, and stop using my dishwasher to save hydro we still get hit with $400.00 per month. Necessities like eye glasses and blood pressure medicine have to be budgeted for because there are no benefits. My last vacation was in 2000, whereas now with the new job, I work the ‘shut-downs’ to make extra money to get us by. Entertainment is a couple trips to see a good ‘special affects’ movie about 4 times a year. Though there have been hardships that I’ve had to face, I am truly lucky in that I still have a roof over my head and a job. There are many people who aren’t as lucky. But the bottom line is that I honestly wouldn’t be where I am today had it not been for my ‘team’ at OCCA who still keep in touch. It would have been a lot worse.Thank you so much"
Members J.S. and D.S. write... October 17,2011
"Julia, Thank you for all of your help you have given us. We especially appreciate the information and advise you have provided. Your assistance has been invaluable to us during this process. Again, thank you so much, we greatly appreciate your professionalism"
Member A.Y. writes... August 24,2011
"Steven,Thank you for being so kind and helpful. I would really be panicking if it weren’t for you. Thank you!"
Member P.Y. writes... August 23,2011
"Hi Raul, Sure was nice visiting with you on the phone. Your company as well as yourself has allowed my mind to rest. I worry so much about not paying my way in life. It's not easy paying everything each month with what ODSP gives. I'm not complaining every cent helps.I remember what you said to me about not worrying what I don't have but be happy with what makes me smile.Thank you Raul for your words of wisdom."
Member D.K. writes... August 17,2011
"Dear Mr. Raoul Mendoza! Thanks for the phone calls, I'm starting to get a little hope with the mess that I got myself into, Thank you for helping."
Members T.B. and R.B. write... July 28,2011
"Attention: Sandyp It is with much appreciation that I am writing about our experience with Ontario Consumer Credit Assistance.One year ago we were way over our heads in Credit card debt, only able to make minimum payments, not even enough to pay down the exorbent amount of interest, especially when we were faced with double payments required, which was a common occurrence in our home. We were at the food bank twice a month, could barely afford to keep up with our multiple insurance payments. We even felt the need to cash in our life Insurance to pay back payments. We were staring bankruptcy in the face, and after 40 years of marriage the possibility of loosing our home.One year later looking back at the Bind we were in still has an effect on us.From the very first contact with OCCA was a welcome relief. Every time we recieved threatening phone calls, or disturbing mail from our Creditors, we would call OCCA and within 4 to 6 hours they would return my calls, with support encouragement, and answers to our fears. Now we are catching up and moving forward. This would not have been possible without OCCA'S knowledge, assistance, they were definitely working on our behalf. One year later we are still members. July 31, 2011 is our last payment, so I thought I should call my worker at OCCA to find out what happens next, to my pleasure we are still members for another year or however long it takes to settle our affairs. They were truly responsible for us having a stress free year. We recommend them highly for their professional manner as well as results on our behalf. HATS OFF To OCCA for a job well done."
Member B.L. writes... July 20,2011
"Hi Stephen..Thank You so very much, Stephen, for all of your assistance. I wish you success in all your endeavors!!"
Members T.B. and J.B. write...
"Dear Stephen,I am writing to thank you for all of your help throughout this process. I am happy to say that because of the phone call we made to OCCA we are now completely debt free. Although it was scary at first, this process has allowed us to break the cycle of debt and see a future of financial stability. Stephen, your knowledge, patience and understanding from start to finish has been outstanding! Thank you again for all of your help."
Member T.W. writes... April 20, 2011
"I just want to thank Julia at OCCA for all the help and everyone else, OCCA has done a lot for me and made my life less stressful. It has opened my eyes to a lot of things I didn't know about. I would recommend OCCA to anyone who feels they are drowning in debt. Thanks again OCCA."
Member B.S. writes... January 5, 2011
"Thanks to you and your associates, I'm in good hands. I was worried a bit, but living with less stress now, thanks to all of you. Thank you so much for all you have done thus far."
Member I.S. writes... December 14, 2010
"Hi Gina, I’d like to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. And thanks to OCCA for all their efforts, and for getting me through this. Again, thank you very much OCCA great job! Thanks a lot and bye for now."
Members W.M. & L.C. write... November 10th, 2010
" Dear Shannon, We just wanted to let you know how much we appreciate what you have and are doing for us. We can't tell you how much you have changed our lives right from the first minute I spoke to you. You put me at ease immediately and quite frankly, alleviated my guilt at the same time.We thought we would have to go bankrupt and could see no way out. Thank goodness we have found you. Thanks again Shannon for everything. The job you do really does change lives."
Member M.P. writes... October 28th, 2010
" I'd like to thank OCCA for all the assistance rendered to me. It took out a lot of stress and anxiety from the collection agencies who were harassing me. Again thank you so much."
Member R.T. writes... October 5th, 2010
" Julia, It was great talking to you...thanks for taking the stress off."
Member B.W. writes...
" Stephen, Thanks again for all your help it means so much. I would never get through this without You."
Member R.T. writes...
" Luisa, Thank you very much for all you do for me. You really do relieve my mind of anxiety. "
Member B.W. writes...
" Hi Stephen, Thanks again for all your help it means so much. I would never get through this without you."
Member D.E. writes... August 20th, 2010
" Many thanks for all your assistance and guidance in this overwhelming situation. PS - Want to "THANK" Stephen for the phone call yesterday! Great to hear his voice, the pep talk & understanding!"
Member L.W. writes... July 28th, 2010
" Dear Julia, Thank you for your continued support. I always feel better after talking to you."
Member R.T. writes... July 22, 2010
" I wish to thank you for your most appropriate assistance. You make it easier to live with my afflictions. Thank you"
Members P.W. & G.F. write... June 23, 2010
" Thanks for all your help. It means a lot to have you on our side."
Members I.S. & J.S. write... June 2, 2010
" Our heartfelt thanks goes to OCCA for their amazing assistance in a tense grueling debt problem. They offer the utmost professionalism to the letter of their word! Much special thanks goes to Julia; as if it was not for her keeping me calm with each telephone call, I would be in a much worse situation than what has turned out to be. They know their business, hands down, and know what each resulting move on the telephone or mails, will bring! She is a credit to the OCCA organization and deserves every accolade possible! This was THE best move I have ever made in my life! I don't know where I'd be without her constant assistance! Extremely well done by all at OCCA! Bravo!"
Members A.M. & L.M. write... May 24, 2010
" As of today we, AM and LM, wife and husband wish to express our thanks for the good services of Ontario Consumer Credit Assistance on our behalf. Special thanks to Stephen. The service they provided is highly pleasing, and recommendable."
Member W.S. writes... May 28, 2010
" Hi Luisa, Appreciate your good work, and the confidence. You gave me some new hope. "
Members S.F. and I.F. write... April 23, 2010
" To: OCCA Dear Sir/Madam, We have been a member of OCCA since March of 2006 and this time we would like to take this opportunity to thank your office from the bottom of our hearts for all your help, your advice and your continued support in helping us deal with our creditors. We have lived through some grueling and terrifying experiences of endless, intimidating phone calls and fear from them. At one point in our life, we went through deep anxiety and depression. We are conscientious people who honestly are willing to pay our debts but are not given the chance by our creditors to pay accordingly to what we can afford.Each time we would receive phone calls and letters from them, we would phone your office and talk to Stephen who we consider a "heaven sent" because of the ways he helps and deals with our problem. Each time he would reassure us that there are processes in place that can be done to deal with intimidating creditors. He would patiently listen and instruct us to send important letters to him. How he would take our fear away each time a situation gets unbearable is the most peaceful comforting feeling we could ever have. We certainly know that it's your job to help fix our problem but your staff particularly "Stephen" has gone beyond his duty to be a receptive humane person who cares about the mental and emotional side to your clients (us). Again we thank you for your staff who from the start of our membership in 2006 had been very good to us, not to forget Monica who helped us prepare the papers to start the process. Thanks to her too. Thank you very much for your continued support and our special appreciation to "Stephen" for being available, patient in advising us whenever needs be. "
Member T.H. writes... April 28, 2010
" Dear Courtnie, Thank you so much for all your hard work and perseverance. It is nice to know that there are people out there that you can count on to help you when times are tough. You are fabulous at what you do. I would recommend OCCA to anyone. Especially your services. Once again Courtnie, thank you very much for all your help."
Members L.S. and E.S. write... May 8, 2010
" When I first found, and dealt with OCCA, finding you on the web, I was not sure if I was doing the right thing. I read all the testimonials and thought, sounds good, but...Well, if I can be of any reassurance to anyone out there, and no, I'm not paid to write this, I'm just very thankful, please trust me, and at least give them a call. I am a Christian and we cannot bear false witness. My wife took ill approx. 4 years ago,and medical bills became insurmountable. I did not know which way to turn. I'm convinced that God led us to OCCA, and they managed to erase, yes you read it right ERASE, my debt. I cannot say enough about their professional way of dealing with me and helping us. May God bless you Julia, thanks again."
Member G.D. writes... May 8, 2010
" To all the staff especially Stephen. Going through the financial matter's that I am, having Stephen has been great. I have collectors calling me steady. I call Stephen about the problem, and he takes the time to talk to me, and makes me feel better, and I have a better day. Without OCCA I don't know what I would do. Thank you. "
Member A.P. writes... April 6, 2010
" To the staff of OCCA...I wanted to take this time to express my outmost gratitude to OCCA and its staff, especially Stephen, for the magnificent effort, advice, hard work and service you provided me in a very difficult and unique credit situation. My unique situation was one in which not many credit assistance companies wanted to take on. However thanks to OCCA they accepted the challenge and handled the matter to my outmost satisfaction and without prejudice. Stephens' experience was invaluable in dealing with my situation, he constantly kept me updated, provided great advice, expertise and I always felt he was doing whatever he could to deal with the matter with my best interests in mind. In the end it was resolved with a great deal of savings for something that was not of my doing to begin with. I would most definitely recommend OCCA to anyone requiring credit assistance because I know they would provide the highest quality and service to anyone requiring credit assistance.All the best to OCCA and its staff,"
Member B.M. writes... March 30, 2010
" Shannon...It is said that "If it sounds too good to be true it usually is" However in this case "Even if it sounds too good to be true, it IS true" I didn't realize how heavy that monkey on my back was until you provided the opportunity to shake it off. Monkey be gone! Thank You."
Member D.M. writes... January 29, 2010
" Shannon...I'm glad I was referred to you [OCCA] through word of mouth. You do exceptional work and move fast. I know my matters will be well looked after and again thanks for helping me out.You guys do incredible work! Thank you."
Member J.S. writes... January 27, 2010
" Attention: Julia Thanks ever so much for such pleasant conversations over the telephone, you certainly make us feel overwhelmed and full of gratitude, knowing that you are there for us, in such a financial need that we have. We greatly appreciate all that you have done for us and what you'll be doing in the next few months to make us have stress free days within our loans/financial bind.Thanks sincerely, "
Member C.H. writes... January 21, 2010
" Ontario Consumer Credit AssistanceMy son and I started working with OCCA back in 2007. Since that time OCCA and Stephen in particular, have been extremely helpful and supportive. One creditor we hadn't heard from in more than a year sent our account to a collections agency. After a year, we needed OCCA's help again. Stephen sent us the correct information immediately that ended the creditors harassing calls and then he coached us on how to handle this demanding creditor in the future. I hope that by providing this letter someone will consider the membership benefits of OCCA and take advantage of their professional services and staff, like we did. What would we have done without them? It's not a situation I want to be in again...but if I am, I'll call OCCA. Thank you so much for all your help."
Member C.B. writes... December 30, 2009
" Hi Stephen, I just wanted to send you & all the staff a big thank you. Our Christmas was awesome...Me & the girls can't thank you enough. OCCA has made a gloomy Christmas turn into one more memorable. Again thank you & hope everyone has a Happy New Year. Take care & we'll talk soon."
Member S.S. writes... October 7, 2009
" Respected Ms. Dillon Please be informed that Ms. Dillon is a very professional person to deal with my debt.Like me many people are suffering in this world with the big burden of debt and need help from someone like Ms. Julia Dillon who can help them with great knowledge and expertise which she has. She is a very kind and patience person.Ms. Julia Dillon, I will remember this time and thank you very much for your great help to deal with my debt in my depression. May God our Lord Jesus Christ bless you and all other members of OCCA for the great help. Thanking you very much."
Member S.C. writes... August 17, 2009
" Dear Stephen and OCCA, In Judaism there is a term for a person who is kind, strong, supportive, and who cares about people. The term is “A MENSCH.” Stephen you deserve to be called “A MENSCH.” A truly kind and humane man.When I first came to OCCA back in 2004, my life was in total turmoil, to such a point my health was deteriorating at an unbelievable pace. I was behind on credit cards and over draft by almost forty - fifty thousand dollars. The reason I was in such arrears was because of 3 back surgeries that restricted me from running my small company...During that period, creditors, and collection companies were trying every tactic imaginable to make me pay them, when I had nothing and no where to go for money. Stephen and OCCA had my back through out the whole process and madness that these creditors and collection agencies were putting me through.Stephen, guided me consoled me, pointed out what was really important in my life, he held my hand you might say through out this whole ordeal, just like a big brother or sister might do for a sibling who is scared and ill. He explained what my rights were and how to deal properly with the threatening phone calls. IT WORKED! Life today is better, my financial health is recovering, my physical health is still a battle every single day, but overall the financial weight is off my shoulders, I receive fewer and fewer threatening calls and I truly look forward to waking up and getting on with my day every day. All thanks to Stephen and OCCA. If you follow what Stephen and the great folks at OCCA tell you to do, but most of all “you must be honest to them (OCCA) and to yourself,” acknowledge your situation, don’t try to hide from it, because there is no where to hide. OCCA will supply you with the guidance, strength, tools, and confidence to help you get through what can be one of the toughest times in one’s life. IT WORKED FOR ME, & IT WILL WORK FOR YOU. Once again, thank you Stephen and OCCA. Please use this referral letter on your website if you wish."
Member S.S. writes... August 7, 2009
" Julia, Thanks for all your help so far. I would recommend you people to anyone."
Member A.B. writes... August 6, 2009
" I want to thank you for all of your help through this entire process. When I first realized the trouble I was in I really wasn't sure how to go about fixing it. After considering all of my options I decided to look into Credit Counselling and Bankruptcy which is when I met Mike [at OCCA].Mike and I thoroughly discussed all of my options and how to implement the most beneficial solution possible. Moreover, Mike was able to arrange a debt repayment schedule with the CRA [Canada Customs and Revenue Agency] which in turn resulted in several liens being removed from my property. Also, Ontario Consumer Credit Assistance has been able to arrange a series of payment arrangements with my other unsecured creditors. Had I not sat down with Mike I would have never received this help.I have referred Mike and Ontario Consumer Credit Assistance on several occasions and those people have experienced the exact same stellar service. Placing my financial well-being in the hands of Mike and Ontario Consumer Credit Assistance was one of the best decisions I have ever made. "
Member D.E. writes... July 16, 2009
" [Stephen] I feel very lucky to be left in such capable hands. I honestly don't know where we'd end up if I didn't have some phenomenal and knowledgeable people guiding us. So I'd like to say a BIG THANK YOU, for taking us on as clients. All of you, Mike, Dave, Rob, Karen and yourself have been awesome to deal with. I think finding your company was truly a fluke but heaven sent."
Member P.O. writes... July 8, 2009
" We want to thank you and OCCA for your on-going assistance to us as we go through a financial situation like we have never experienced before. It is your continual assurance to us that we will get through this that gives us the motivation to carry on.Thank you again, Julia."
Member B.B. writes... April 24, 2009
" This letter is in regards to the work Karen put forward on my behalf.When I first called unsure if I was going in the right direction with my situation, Karen helped a great deal helping me understand what OCCA can do for me. She answered the questions I had at the time without difficulty. Her attitude was very upbeat, reassuring and appropriate, giving me confidence in your organization. The information she put forward was educating and gave me somewhat of a futuristic goal to work towards. She lifted a lot of wait off my shoulders. In the end I'm glad Karen took care of my file and I'm relieved the process went so smoothly.Thanks Karen Take care "
Member E.R. writes... April 24th, 2009
" Dear OCCA Team, First and foremost, I would like to say thank you thus far to Dave & Karen for fielding all my inquiries during the preliminary stages of this service to be rendered. My wife and I are very “heartfelt” in this crossroads of our financial challenge.We are well aware, that we are 100% responsible for the all the debt we have incurred. We do feel obligated, we did spend that money on the ease of credit furnished to us. In retrospect, if we didn’t have such great credit in times past, all the companies wouldn’t have extended their limits to us.The financial discipline was lacking on my part with the ease of credit, pay later, defer payments, and buy now! I am taking 100% responsibility to pro-actively work with OCCA, and with all my creditors to secure a mutually favorable outcome for all parties involved with mutual respect and resolution.I want to maintain my utmost professional dialog with all my creditors and I know OCCA will honor this as well.Sincerely, Thank you very much."
Member E.R. writes... April 3rd, 2009
" Dear OCCA Team, Thank you for the constant contact & updates of the process! Have a great day!"
Member W.D. writes... January 22nd, 2009
" After hearing about OCCA I decided to check them out. After all I was at the point where I was so far into debt I was paralyzed financially.I was introduced to Steven who told me some examples of amounts of what huge credit card debts were settled. He was also very honest and upfront in saying how it could affect my credit rating. I was very skeptical. But then everything he, and other members of the staff at OCCA, told me occurred. From the tactics that the collection agency used to the settlement offers that finally came through at less than half of what I owed.With the help of OCCA I settled 2 huge credit card debts and am now rebuilding my credit rating.Thanks OCCA "
Member B.W. writes... October 27th, 2008
" I want to thank Steven for being there for me as he has seen me through a lot and I have really appreciated his patience and advice. He always returns my calls promptly, is always concerned how I am doing, and has made my unfortunate circumstances easier to deal with knowing that he is in my corner. I do not know what I would have done with out him. So thank you so so much Steven."
Member M.C. writes... October 17th, 2008
" OCCA did a fantastic job in handling my case. I am proud of all the staff, especially those who are handling my case from the word go. Keep up the good work!"
Member M.L. writes... September 15th, 2008
" When I became a member with OCCA I was in a very bad situation with the debts I owed.During my first and FREE consultation with OCCA to go over my situation, they immediately made me feel very relaxed and to have confidence in them, which I did. After they went over my situation and got back to me with what I had to pay back (which was less than half), I felt like I won the lottery! Any time the collection agencies would call or send me nasty letters I would talk to my representative at OCCA and they would immediately take care of it, and made sure they (the collection agencies) did not contact me again, but only deal with OCCA. This alone took the load off my shoulders and I was again able to walk with my head held high, never again having fear when the phone rang or that nasty letters were waiting at the mail box.Now, after three years, I am out of debt and I want to THANK OCCA a million times for bringing my life back to normal - I will never own a credit card again! My saying now is, 'If I don't have the cash, then I just don't buy it.'I can honestly say, any person in debt please give yourself a chance and get help from OCCA. They are honestly there to help you out. THANKS AGAIN OCCA! "
Member J.D. writes...
" On June 14, 2004, I was at my wit's end.I am a very strong person, but the incessant, harassing phone calls (minimum 5-7 per day) from my numerous creditors, were starting to wear me down and greatly increase my stress levels. I had absolutely nowhere to turn, having no money, and no job.I didn't know what to do! It was nerve wracking.I can't remember how, I assume online, or a newspaper as, but I discovered OCCA that day, and come in for a discussion. That visit gave me great information and hope, and I signed up on the spot.The details I learned that day instantly took away my worries. The calls didn't stop for the longest time, and I had to learn to deal with all the tales the creditors would weave, but I continually gave your name [OCCA] to these people, and over time the calls dwindled. I am writing to thank the staff of OCCA for all their assistance. It got me through a very troubling time, having suddenly found myself unemployed, and in such great debt, after having worked for over 30 continuous years in just two jobs.Thank you. Keep up the good work! "
Member A.A. writes...
" This is a testimonial letter to let you know how happy & satisfied me and my family are with your service in helping us with our financial situation. Despite using other similar companies, all making genuine attempts to help but couldn't, I was not sure whether you could help us. But to my surprise and God's amazing intervention OCCA delivered their promise. We are now truly having a stress free financial situation.I strongly recommend you to anybody, we have already referred people to you and will continue to do so. Above all, pray, put away pride, and by God's grace and the help of OCCA you are in good hands. God bless you all. "
Member B.P. writes...
" I wish to thank you and your staff for extricating me from a situation of unmanageable debt."
Member B.D. writes...
" I am writing in regards to the excellent service that has been provided by your company. I am amazed at the quality of service and am very pleased at the results that have been given to me. I came to your company frustrated with problems I couldn't bear, I trusted your service and received the best results possible.I would like to thank you for your great customer service in handling my account. "
Member K.B. writes...
" My spouse and I are particularly grateful for the thoughtful options you identified for us. In today's world, it is all too easy to suddenly be looking upward at a seemingly unclimbable mountain of financial over-commitment. The world of credit has steep and slippery slopes. To fall into one of its crevasses can be both discouraging and disorienting. An alarming number of Canadians wake up these days to find themselves lost in the valley of the shadow of debt, wondering how to climb up and out. OCCA doesn't simply offer a temporary life-line, it can actually help to make the mountains manageable; to lessen the incline of debt-load, to help secure footing on a pathway that can lead out of destruction and despair. And it's more than just a credit-assistance organization... it's people - genuinely caring, and knowledgeable people. With deep thanks for the professionalism, I strongly recommend OCCA to anyone sincerely trying to find their way out of the forests of financial entanglement into the sunlight of a secure future."