Family Self-Sufficiency

What is the Family Self-Sufficiency Program?

The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program is a key initiative designed to help low-income families in the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher and Public Housing Programs achieve economic independence. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the FSS Program equips participants with tools and resources to boost their income and reduce dependence on public assistance, ultimately breaking the cycle of poverty.

The program provides a wide range of services tailored to the diverse needs of families, including job training, educational support, financial literacy, childcare, and counseling. By addressing both immediate and long-term needs, the FSS Program fosters financial independence and self-reliance.

Its primary aim is to empower families to secure stable employment, increase earnings, pursue education, and achieve personal and financial goals, thereby reducing reliance on public support and promoting lasting economic stability.

Watch this short video for a brief overview of the program.

NOTE: This program is only for current HCV or public housing participants

How does FSS helps you save money while you work?

EMHA sets up an interest-bearing escrow (savings) account for each FSS participant. As you progress toward your goals and your earned income grows, EMHA contributes to this account. The amount credited to your FSS escrow account is based on your family’s annual income, earned income, and rent at the start of the program, reflecting increases in your earned income.

Upon completing your FSS goals and contract, you receive a check for the full amount in your escrow account. In some cases, you may access these savings during the program to cover costs related to achieving your goals. FSS participants often use these funds for purposes such as purchasing a vehicle, covering educational expenses, or improving credit.

FSS Program Partners

The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program thrives through partnerships with organizations, agencies, and stakeholders across your county. These partners provide critical resources, services, and support to empower FSS participants toward economic independence.

Below are some of our key Program Partners:

Public Housing Agencies (PHAs): PHAs locally administer the FSS Program, managing operations, determining eligibility, offering case management, and collaborating with partners to ensure participant success.

Employers and Workforce Development Agencies: These partners help participants secure jobs and advance careers by providing job training, placement services, skill-building opportunities, and employment resources.

Educational Institutions: Colleges, vocational schools, and other institutions offer participants access to adult education, vocational training, certificate programs, and degrees to enhance skills and earning potential.

Nonprofit Organizations: Nonprofits collaborate with PHAs to deliver services like financial literacy, counseling, childcare, transportation, and housing support, helping participants achieve self-sufficiency.

Financial Institutions: Banks and credit unions partner with the FSS Program to offer financial education, banking services, credit-building programs, and affordable financial products, enabling participants to manage finances and build assets.

Community-Based Organizations: These groups connect participants to local resources, support networks, and services such as food assistance, healthcare, legal aid, and housing support to address basic needs and overcome barriers.

Local Government Agencies: Departments of social services, housing, and workforce development provide funding, referrals, resources, and services to support participants’ self-sufficiency goals.

Faith-Based Organizations: Churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples offer community outreach, volunteer opportunities, spiritual guidance, and social support to aid participants’ journeys.

Through these partnerships, the FSS Program builds a robust support network, equipping participants with the tools and resources needed to achieve economic independence and enhance their quality of life.

FSS Graduation

You graduate from the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program and receive the funds in your escrow account by meeting or certifying all the following conditions:

You complete your voluntary contract goals within 5 years (EMHA may grant a contract extension of up to two additional years for valid reasons).
You secure and maintain appropriate employment.
No family member is receiving cash assistance.
You remain in good standing with EMHA.

If a family fails to meet its responsibilities within the specified contract period or is terminated from the FSS, Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), or Public Housing program, the funds in the escrow account will not be disbursed.

Apply for the Family Self-Sufficiency Program through EMHA

To begin the application process for the Family Self Sufficiency please reach out to one of our FSS Coordinators by filling out this brief survey or call us directly at 419-625-0262 ext. 2329 or 2313. You many also email us at jnicholson@eriemetrohousing.org or chazelwood@eriemetrohousing.org.

More Information:
https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/multifamily-fss/
https://www.hudexchange.info/trainings/fss-program-online-training/1.2-what-is-fss.html

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