WASHINGTON — The Obama administration plans to send $600 million to help unemployed homeowners avoid foreclosure in five states.

The Treasury Department said mortgage-assistance proposals submitted by North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island and South Carolina received approval. The states estimate their efforts could help up to 50,000 homeowners.

The administration is directing $2.1 billion from its existing $75 billion mortgage assistance program to a total of 10 states. Each state designed its own plan.

Treasury approved money in June for Arizona, California, Florida, Michigan and Nevada.