Family Self-Sufficiency Program

Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) is a HUD program that allows residents of HCV and public housing to build financial assets as the household increases earned-income from wages. Participation generally lasts five (5) years, during which participants identify educational, professional and personal goals including:
• educational advancement (e.g. GED or post-secondary)
• completion of specialized job training
• obtaining employment
• career advancement
• transitioning out of subsidized housing
• homeownership
The FSS program involves goal setting, mentoring and financial incentives to empower families in making positive life changes.
FSS Program Services
As a part of AHA’s FSS program, participants work with the HCV department staff to develop a plan that outlines specific activities needed to achieve their economic self-sufficiency goals. Throughout the program, the staff monitors participants’ progress and helps them move toward self-sufficiency. AHA’s FSS services are in coordination with the Workforce Investment Act, also known as the (WIA) program.
As participants achieve employment goals and increase household income from wages, their rent increases. An amount equitable to the monthly rent increase is set aside each month into an escrow savings account. When participants meet all of their goals and graduate from the program, they are eligible to receive a payout of the escrow accrued during their participation.