Family Self-Sufficiency Program

Eligibility:

BHA's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program is a voluntary employment and savings incentive program that is available to any BHA client who has a Section 8 Voucher. Participation in FSS does not affect your Section 8 Voucher.

Program Description:

The Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) is an employment and savings incentive program that helps participants set and work towards their goals by providing support services and community referrals. 

The Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program consists of two parts:

1. Support Services

When you sign up for the FSS program you will work with an FSS Coordinator to create a five-year Contract of Participation (COP) based on your individual goals. Your FSS Coordinator will help you find resources and support to move you towards your goals.

In general, most goals fall under six main categories: Employment, Financial Literacy, Transportation, Childcare, Education, and Health and Wellness. Each client's goals are different and FSS coordinators will work with you to get the most out of the program given your individual needs.

2. The Escrow Account

In the FSS program, when your rent goes up due to an increase in earned income in your household, you become eligible for an FSS escrow account. Each month, BHA automatically funds this account based on the changes in the portion of rent you pay. Each month that you pay an increased portion of rent due to an increase in earned income in your household, we make a deposit into your FSS escrow account.

FSS escrow funds accumulate while you work toward completing your goals.

When you successfully complete your FSS contract, you receive all escrow funds that have built up over your time in the program. If you do not successfully complete your contract, all money in the account goes back to BHA.

Any money that you receive from your FSS escrow account is tax-free and can be used for whatever you think will be best for you and your family. We have seen our participants receive escrow funds ranging from $1,400 to $22,000. With this money, participants have bought cars, paid down debt, taken vacations, and even used the money for a downpayment on a home.

Want to enroll in our FSS program or would you like more information?
Contact one of our Family Self Sufficiency coordinators: