Family Self-Sufficiency
Family Self Sufficiency
- Post 18 August 2008
- Last Updated on 29 June 2012
- By Irv Aragon
- Hits: 9400
Program Objective
The objective of the HACA Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program is to reduce or eliminate the dependency of low-income families on Section 8 assistance, welfare assistance, other public assistance, or any Federal, State, or local rent or homeownership program. HACA measures the success of its FSS program by the number of FSS families who have become welfare free, obtained their first job or a higher paying job, obtained a diploma or higher education degree, or similar goals that will assist the family in obtaining economic independence.
How FSS Works
Affordable decent, safe, and sanitary housing provides a family a measure of stability. FSS builds on that foundation made possible by the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP). FSS participants sign a 5-year Contract of Participation. HACA's FSS Counselors leverage public- and private-sector resources to provide and facilitate the case management, education and job training opportunities that can help families become economically independent. FSS also offers a homebuyers education and financial incentive program to help participants purchase a home of their own upon successful completion of their Contract of Participation or upon achievement of certain interim goals.
HACA's FSS program has successfully graduated over 150 families. Over 20 of those families have become homeowners.
More Information
If you’re a Section 8 HCVP participant assisted by HACA, and you're interested in learning more about the FSS Program, call (510) 727-8582 and request that a brochure be sent to you. The brochure describes the benefits of the program and includes an orientation meeting request form. Complete and return this request to HACA. You will be invited to attend the next orientation meeting.
HACA Scholarships
HACA Scholarships, a HACA initiative for promoting self-sufficiency and for recognizing academic achievement and drive, are awarded each year. Family Self-Sufficiency participants and residents of Housing Authority owned units are eligible to apply for the scholarship. Up to ten scholarships are available each year for participants that attend college, community college, apprentice or licensed vocational programs, or universities.
