Overview
The Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) offers Housing Assistance’s Section 8 housing voucher holders a five-year pathway to build wealth, eliminate debt, and achieve economic independence.
How It Works
Normally, earning more money means your rent goes up and that cash is gone. With FSS, as you earn more, a portion of the additional money you pay in rent is deposited by the housing authority into an escrow account that you may access upon graduation from the program to further your goals.
A case manager will help you put together a detailed plan to reach your goals, including education, employment and financial goals. We’ll help you get the advice and referrals you need to move ahead. Coaching, resources, and workshops are provided to set you on a path toward increasing your family’s financial stability.
Program Benefits
- Case management
- Detailed plan to reach goals – education, employment, financial
- Counseling/referrals
- Build savings through an escrow account
- Participants may be eligible for a first time home-buyer bonus of $5,000
FAQs
Who is eligible?
People who have hold a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher through Housing Assistance.
What happens when you join FSS?
A case manager will help you put together a detailed plan to reach your goals, including education, employment and financial goals. We’ll help you get the advice and referrals you need to move ahead. Coaching, resources, and workshops are provided to set you on a path toward increasing your family’s financial stability.
What kind of commitment do you need to make?
This varies with each client. We’ll give you the help you need to take steps on the way to achieving your individual goals.
Can I keep my rental voucher while enrolled in this program?
Yes. You will not lose your rental voucher due to participation in the FSS program unless you choose to buy a house and give up your voucher.
FSS participants are allowed unlimited interim recertifications, so you can request rent adjustments as many times as you need while enrolled in the program.
If you are not able to complete the program, there are no penalties.
What am I allowed to do with the escrow money when I graduate?
When you graduate from the FSS program, the money is yours to use however you choose.
Are there incentives if I buy a house?
Yes. Our Homeownership Track in the FSS program is for families who want to focus on buying their own home. In addition to the basic FSS resources, it includes homeownership workshops, presentations from real estate agents, and guidance on rebuilding credit to help you prepare for obtaining a high-quality mortgage. If you purchase a home, you may qualify for a $5,000 bonus in addition to your escrow savings. Participants may also qualify for up to $30,000 for a down payment from Mass Housing.
What if I need to recertify my voucher during the program?
FSS participants are allowed unlimited interim recertifications, so you can request rent adjustments as many times as you need while enrolled in the program.
Are there penalties if I don’t complete the program?
If a participant is unable to complete the program, there are no penalties.
