The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program is a voluntary employment and savings incentive program for households with Housing Choice (aka Section 8) Vouchers (HCV). It is designed to provide opportunities to and support for Housing Choice Voucher holders who are working to secure employment and achieve financial self-sufficiency. HRA partners with The Greenfield Housing Authority to administer the FSS program.
How does it work?
When a household with a Housing Choice Voucher has an increase in income, they are required to pay more in rent. But when a family participates in the FSS program, a matching amount is deposited by the housing authority into an interest-bearing escrow account.
For example, if your household’s earned income increases and you are required to pay $50 more per month as a result, if you are enrolled in the FSS program then the housing authority will also deposit $50 per month into an escrow account for you. The money in your escrow account is paid out when your household successfully completes the FSS program. Most households complete the program in five years, although some achieve their goals in less time.
Why join the FSS program?
The FSS program is an opportunity to invest in yourself — to finish high school, attend college, find a job (or a better job), or even purchase a home — all while building up a savings escrow account.
What else should I know?
To participate in the FSS program, your household must be in good standing with the HCV program. To complete the program, your household must meet the goals you establish at the beginning of the process, maintain employment, and all family members must be off public cash assistance for at least 12 months.
How do I sign up?
To set up an appointment to join the program (or just to get more information), please call, email, or mail Emma Connelly at the Greenfield Housing Authority. You must be a current Housing Choice Voucher holder at HRA or GHA in good standing.
Contact: Emma Connelly, Greenfield Housing Authority
| FSS Department 1 Elm Terrace Greenfield, MA 01301 | emma@greenfieldhousing.org Phone: (413) 475-3621 Fax: (413) 772-0616 |
