Why does the foreclosure process continue until there is a formal workout

I had a job for 18.5 years when I lost it in January of 2007. I was on unemployment but it was not enough to cover all my bills. I took my 401K and paid my mortgage with it until it ran out in September of 2007. I had not found a job until December 18th thru a temporary company. I am still working with that same firm and hope to become permanent. I have no home phone as I could not afford it. I was required to answer a summons to the Niagara County Court Clerk and a Lawyer representing the Mortgage company. I am also in contact with eh Mortgage company's Home retention team trying to work out a solution that will allow me to keep my home. If I lose my home I will be forced to become homeless at 45 years of age with 2 dogs to take care of. The mortgage company is stating that it could take 30-60 days to come up with a solution and it's not guaranteed. The foreclosure process continues until they have a signed agreement between myself and the mortgage company. I'm at a loss. I worked very hard for many years to finally be able to afford to purchase my own home only to lose it because I lost my job.