In keeping with the spirit of the film “Hancock,” Columbia Pictures is launching a contest to pay off a family’s home mortgage. Hancock’s Helping Hand Mortgage payoff contest was inspired by Hancock, a misunderstood superhero who is encouraged to improve his public image when he meets a good-hearted public relations executive. The prize is worth up to $360,000. Entrants must write a 200-word essay explaining why they deserve the grand prize. Deadline is July 30. To enter and for official rules, go to www.hancockmovie.com.