Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program

The mission of the Family Self-Sufficiency Program is to assist motivated individuals and families to become economically independent and self-sufficient by working together to overcome barriers, build self-esteem, and establish and attain goals.

The Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) is a voluntary program for participants in Section 8/Housing Choice Voucher and Public Housing/Conventional Housing programs. Its purpose is to assist families receiving HUD Section 8 rental assistance or living in Public Housing to improve their economic situation and reduce their dependence on public assistance. FSS is for those people who are unemployed, or are already employed and want to increase their income, who are willing to commit to changing their lives. As FSS participants succeed in raising their family income, the portion of their monthly income contributed toward their Section 8 or Public Housing rent payment also increases. HUD regulations allow a percentage of their rent increase to be deposited into an interest bearing escrow account. If the family meets its goals within five years and "graduates" from welfare assistance for a period of twelve months, they will receive the funds in this account.

Participating families are required to sign a five-year Contract of Participation with the Housing Authority (a two-year extension may be granted in some cases). In the Contract, an Individual Training and Services Plan outlines the employment goals, education or job training needed, and services provided for completion of the contract. FSS staff will work with the household to identify and locate the services they need in order to accomplish their goals.