The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program is a government-supported program that helps families living in public housing or using Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) become financially independent.
In simple terms, the FSS Program gives low-income families a real shot at building savings, getting better jobs, and reducing their need for government assistance—all while still living in affordable housing.
It’s not just about housing—it’s about creating a path toward financial freedom and long-term stability.
Why Does the FSS Program Matter?
Living paycheck to paycheck is stressful. Many families who qualify for housing assistance want to earn more and do better, but don’t always have the tools, guidance, or resources to get there. That’s where the FSS Program comes in.
This program connects families to jobs, education, training, child care, transportation, and even credit counseling—basically everything they need to take steps forward.
Plus, here’s the best part: As your income increases, so does your escrow savings account (more on that below).
Who Runs the Program?
The FSS Program is managed by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) and funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Each participating housing agency has FSS Coordinators who help families set and achieve personal goals like:
- Finding a better job
- Going back to school
- Starting a business
- Paying off debt
- Buying a home
Think of it like having a free life coach and savings program wrapped into one.
How Does the FSS Program Work?
The process is structured but simple:
1. Enrollment
You join the FSS Program through your local housing authority. It’s voluntary—you choose to participate.
2. Goal Setting
You meet with an FSS Coordinator and create a 5-year plan. This plan includes personal, educational, and employment goals tailored to your situation.
3. Support Services
Based on your goals, your FSS Coordinator helps you get access to:
- Job training programs
- GED classes or college enrollment
- Financial literacy workshops
- Child care or transportation help
- Counseling and support services
4. Earn & Save
Here’s where the magic happens: As your earned income goes up, your rent might go up too—but HUD takes that rent increase and deposits it into a savings account (called an escrow account) just for you.
Let’s say your rent increases by $150/month because of a better job. Instead of losing that money, it goes into your escrow savings. Over five years, that could mean thousands of dollars saved—money you can use when you graduate from the program.
5. Graduation
If you reach your goals and are no longer dependent on cash welfare assistance (TANF), you graduate from the FSS Program and get your escrow savings in full.
Real-Life Example
Take Maria. She’s a single mom who used to work part-time and relied on a Section 8 voucher. Through the FSS Program, she:
- Got a full-time job
- Enrolled in night classes
- Paid off her credit card debt
- Saved over $9,000 in her escrow account
Now she’s a homeowner, fully self-sufficient, and no longer needs housing assistance.
Benefits of the FSS Program
Free to join — No cost to participate
Build real savings — Escrow accounts grow as your income grows
One-on-one support — You get a personal coach (FSS Coordinator)
Access to resources — Job training, education, and financial tools
Improve your credit — With budgeting help and money management
Increased confidence — You set goals and crush them
Homeownership path — Many graduates buy their own homes
Who Can Join?
To qualify, you need to:
- Be receiving assistance through Public Housing or the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Program
- Be motivated to improve your financial situation
- Be ready to work toward your goals over a 5-year period
