Family Self Sufficiency Program (FSS)
The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program helps LCHA residents build financial independence and achieve long-term stability. Through personalized coaching, goal setting, and financial incentives, participants gain the tools to increase their earnings, reduce reliance on assistance, and create a path to homeownership or career growth. Take the next step toward your future with the support of the FSS program.
FSS Staff: Here to Help.
FSS programs vary in their offerings, tailored to the resources available in each community. The FSS coordinator plays a crucial role by collaborating with local agencies that provide essential services and connecting participants directly to these services based on their needs.
At LCHA, we are committed to fostering independence from government assistance. Our goal is to help participants achieve full-time employment, which we believe will:
- Boost their self-esteem
- Increase their motivation
- Ultimately lead to self-sufficiency
To request additional information contact the FSS Coordinator.
What is the Family Self-Sufficiency Program?
The Family Self-Sufficiency Program, also known as FSS, is a specialized initiative designed for Section 8 and Public Housing residents. Its primary aim is to guide participants towards economic independence and self-sufficiency. The program operates under regulations and guidelines set forth by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), ensuring consistent quality and support across communities.
Here in Lancaster, the FSS program is administered by the Lancaster City Housing Authority, located at 325 Church Street. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you achieve your goals and build a more secure future for yourself and your family.
FSS is a five-year journey of growth and development. Throughout this time, you will collaborate closely with our staff to craft a personalized plan for success. Together, we will set short-term goals to get you started, intermediate milestones to keep you on track, and long-range objectives to guide your overall progress. This comprehensive approach is designed to set you on a course for lasting economic success and family self-sufficiency.
Our goal is to equip you with the skills, resources, and confidence needed to thrive independently. We believe in your potential and are here to support you every step of the way on your path to a brighter, more secure future.
The Initial Step
Once accepted into the program, you will meet with our staff to create a personalized plan; identify your goals and formalize your commitment with a Contract of Participation, which outlines expectations for both you and the program.
During this initial meeting, we will assess your unique situation and address any immediate concerns, ensuring the program is tailored to your needs for long-term success.
This meeting marks the beginning of your journey toward self-sufficiency, where we will listen, guide, and support you as you take these important first steps.
Setting Goals
An Individual Training and Services Plan (ITSP) is developed based on the participant’s needs and future goals. Specific steps and objectives are outlined to help the participant successfully fulfill the contract.
To complete the contract, a participant must not receive Government Assistance for at least 1 day prior to graduation, be suitably employed, and successfully met your ITSP goals.
What’s In It For You?
In addition to the personal growth gained from achieving your goals, you may also benefit from an escrow account.
When you enroll in the program, the Housing Authority sets up a savings account for you. An increase in your rent because of an increase in earnings from work will result in credit to your savings account.
During the contract period, a portion of your rent increase will be placed into an interest-earning escrow account, held until you complete your contract.
If you are not receiving government assistance, are suitably employed and have met your goals you can access your escrow account at graduation of the program.
Community Building
FSS offers ongoing support, including personalized assistance from the FSS Coordinator.
Participants can develop their leadership skills and establish new community connections. FSS addresses the challenges participants encounter in achieving employment and self-sufficiency, allowing them to identify these obstacles alongside their personal strengths.
Participants have a five-year period to reach their goals, which can be adjusted as their circumstances evolve. They will receive information, education, and referrals to aid in their journey toward self-sufficiency, covering areas like educational resources, job training and searching, financial literacy, credit repair and other personal goals.
As participants transition out of the program, their housing subsidies will be available for others awaiting entry into FSS.