Talks of a bailout have been a hot topic this week.

Tuesday, Governor Jim Doyle announced local foreclosures will get a bit of a bailout from Uncle Sam.

Wisconsin will get $39 million to buy up, tear down, or sell foreclosed properties.

According to UW-Extension, there are 7,663 foreclosures in Wisconsin in the first quarter of the year. That’s up 41% from the same time last year.

In Eau Claire County alone, there are 98 foreclosures in the first quarter; last year during the same time there were 66.

Governor Doyle says the government money will help stabilize neighborhoods and help slow the drop in the value of homes.

These grants can help buy up foreclosed properties, demolish them, or help buyers put down payments on them.

The money will be targeted in areas hardest hit by foreclosures.

The spokesperson for WHEDA, or Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority, says they are working out the details and may use a non-profit to distribute the money, or do it individually.