Self Sufficiency Programs

EIRHA offers a Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program for Housing Choice Voucher and Public Housing families.

The Family Self Sufficiency Program (FSS) will assist you in:

• Finding employment
• Obtaining GED
• Enrolling in a college
• Increasing self-esteem
• Analyzing and organizing finances
• Rebuilding credit
• Developing a resume
• Connecting with social service agencies

 
What is the Family Self Sufficiency Program?

The FSS program is designed to promote employment and offer an opportunity to save money amongst families receiving housing assistance through the Housing Choice Voucher Program or Public Housing Programs. 
 
Families can earn a savings account through increases in their earned income. This savings account is called an "escrow account." As a family increases their earnings through employment, an amount equal to 30% of that increase is deposited into an escrow account. This account earns interest and is paid to the family at the completion of their family self sufficiency contract. Many families have used their escrow toward the down payment on a house, school tuition, or to purchase a vehicle. 
 
Each family involved in the FSS program is assigned a case manager. There is a case manager for Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher recipients, and a case manager for Public Housing residents. The case manager's role is to work directly with the family to develop an FSS contract that consists of goals to meet on the way to reaching self sufficiency. The case manager will assist the families in locating and securing supportive services within their community.

Who is eligible for the FSS Program?

The Family Self Sufficiency Program serves families participating in the Housing Choice Voucher Program as well as Public Housing residents.