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HCV FAMILY SELF-SUFFICIENCY The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program is a work incentive program for participants receiving Section 8 HCV rental assistance. The FSS program coordinator will work with the head of the household to establish a five-year plan that includes employment, education, and training goals. Every 6 months these goals will be reviewed and revised to meet the participant’s needs. Participation in the FSS Program provides a number of benefits including referral services and information and training opportunities. Most importantly, involvement in the FSS program allows participant’s to establish a savings account using no personal money. How it works: As FSS program participants begin to work and receive “earned” income the family portion of their HCV rent payment will increase. HUD will match the rent increase and deposit this amount into an interest bearing savings account managed by the HRA. For example: if rent goes up by $50 per month due to income from a new job, the HRA will deposit $50 per month into a tenant escrow account. FSS program participants are eligible to withdraw money from their escrow savings account during the term of the FSS Contract if the money is used to complete a previously identified goal. Escrow funds cannot be used to pay for items that should be budgeted; such as rent, utilities or routine car repairs. The account is maintained by the FSS program coordinator and the balance is paid out when the terms of the FSS contract are fulfilled. Participants have earned several thousands of dollars while participating in the FSS program. FSS graduates have used their savings for a down payment on a home, to purchase a vehicle, to pay off debt, to start a business and more. To request more information or to apply for the FSS program, contact the FSS program coordinator at the
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