Family Self Sufficiency Program (FSS)

The Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) is the CHA’s award-winning initiative that has gained national recognition for its ability to assist voucher program participants to obtain good jobs and begin the process of building family wealth. The program features goal setting, mentoring and financial incentives to empower families to make positive life changes.

How the Program Works

Under FSS, participants enter into a five-year contract with CHA that identifies educational, personal and professional goals. Families are then assigned a Family Advisor who helps the head of household develop a personalized plan of action that outlines specific activities and services needed to achieve those goals. Services include education and job training, social services, business development, credit counseling, legal assistance, job placement and self-help workshops.

Throughout the five-year period, a Family Advisor monitors the participant’s progress and helps him or her reach the next level of self-sufficiency. As participants reach their goals, their income is likely to increase, causing their portion of the rent to increase. When this occurs, an amount equal to the increase is set aside in a savings account for the participant. When the FSS contract is successfully completed, the participant receives all of the money in the account plus interest.

Since its inception, more than 556 voucher holders have graduated from FSS, sharing over $5 million in accumulated savings. FSS graduates have obtained their high school diploma or college degree, established themselves in rewarding careers, purchased homes, started their own businesses and much more.

Program Features

Individual counseling
Career planning and development
A built in savings plan
Monthly workshops and job club meetings
Employment referrals and job recruitment sessions with Chicago area employers
Preparation for homeownership

Program Requirements

To qualify for FSS, you must:

Be a participant in the Housing Choice Voucher Program
Be in compliance with program rules
Have a genuine desire to change
Sign a five-year contract
Maintain regular contact with your Family Advisor
Make measurable progress toward your goals

Find out more

Information about FSS is distributed at briefings and at re-certification interviews. Families with vouchers may also find out more about the program, by sending an e-mail to mvargas@thecha.org or by attending an information session. All voucher holders are welcome to attend; registration is not required. Refer to the Special Programs Calendar for a schedule.

Download:

FSS Brochure
Special Programs Interest Form