Webster Bank, based in Connecticut with significant operations in Massachusetts, has declared a 90-day moratorium of foreclosures on mortgages owned by the bank, and an expansion of mortgage assistance programs.

Under the program, Webster will temporarily suspend foreclosure activity for at least 90 days for all qualified homeowners who were more than 30 days delinquent on their Webster residential mortgages as of Nov. 4, and work with those customers to structure more affordable payment plans so they can stay in their homes. The program applies to all eligible mortgages owned by Webster, the bank said.

In addition to the temporary foreclosure moratorium, Webster will expand its mortgage assistance program by identifying and contacting at-risk customers to see if they need help to remain current on their mortgages.

“During this challenging economic time, we feel a heightened responsibility to assist those who are under financial pressure and are threatened with the possibility of losing their homes," said James C. Smith, Webster's chairman and chief executive officer. "Just as my father did when he founded Webster Bank during the Great Depression, we will do everything in our power to keep people in their homes."

Under terms of the program, eligible borrowers must occupy the home as their principal residence, be working in good faith to stay current on their mortgage and provide evidence of sufficient income to support affordable mortgage payments.