What is Family Self-Sufficiency?

The Family Self-Sufficiency is a program designed to help families become economically independent by creating a family plan for the future. It is a voluntary program designed to assist families in becoming financially independent so they will no longer need to rely on public assistance. Members work with a case manager to assess strengths, identify barriers, set and achieve goals.

Who can participate in the program?

All participants in the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) and Public Housing residents are eligible to participate.

How does the FSS program work?

Each Family Self-Sufficiency member will have an individualized training and service plan (ITSP). The ITSP includes the goals you choose and connects you with the resources and services to guide you towards self-sufficiency.

FSS members agree to seek and maintain suitable employment.

What are the benefits to you and your family?

While you are a Family Self-Sufficiency participant and there are increases in earned income, deposits will be made the YHA into an escrow (savings) account.

When you complete all of your FSS goals you will be eligible to receive the money in your escrow account.

You will be assigned to a case manager who can provide information and referrals for such services as:

  • Child Care
  • GED Preparation
  • English as a Second Language
  • Job Search Assistance
  • Counseling
  • Job Training
  • Budgeting
  • Credit Counseling
  • Home ownership Counseling

When is the FSS program contract complete?

The FSS family agreement is completed when: the family has fulfilled all of its responsibilities in the contract or 30% of the family’s adjusted income equals or is greater than the fair market rent for the housing unit for which the family qualifies.

If you complete the contract and are still eligible for Section 8 assistance, you may keep your housing assistance.

What is expected of participants?

  • Have no lease violations.
  • Pay rent on time.
  • Sign the Contact of Participation which is effect for 5 years.
  • Establish goals, including the ultimate goal of freedom from the need for government assistance.
  • Seek employment, job training or further education.
  • Meet with case manager regularly throughout the contract for update meetings.