Family Self Sufficiency Program
The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program is an 8-year voluntary initiative designed to help Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher participants and their families achieve economic independence. Through a combination of case management, education, and financial incentives, the program empowers families to build stability, increase their income, and ultimately reduce dependence on public assistance.
How It Works
Participants work closely with an FSS Case Manager to identify personal and financial goals, such as career advancement, education, or improving credit. As their income increases, a portion of the additional rent they pay due to higher earnings is deposited into an escrow savings account. These savings accumulate over time and can be accessed upon program completion—often amounting to thousands of dollars to support homeownership, education, or other long-term goals.
Impact
is the average escrow savings of an FSS graduate.
families graduated from the FSS program, achieving financial independence and/or homeownership.
currently enrolled in the FSS program.
participants have increased their wages.
Beyond Case Management
The program also offers workshops, newsletters, and community-building events including:
- Empower Homebuyers and Financial Literacy Workshops
- Job Fairs and Career Webinars
- Summer Picnics and Holiday Giving Programs
After leaving the Army, BreAnna faced homelessness and uncertainty—but her determination and the support of LifeSTEPS and the FSS program helped her rebuild her life from the ground up. While staying at a shelter, she learned about LifeSTEPS and the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program, which help individuals and families in affordable housing build financial independence. In 2018, she secured a HUD-VASH voucher and moved into a Santa Clara County Housing Authority (SCCHA) community served by LifeSTEPS. There, she connected with Denelle Fedor, a LifeSTEPS case manager, who encouraged her to enroll in SCCHA’s FSS program and guided her on a path toward long-term stability.
