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Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS)

Building Pathways to Economic Independence
The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program is a voluntary program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by the Jefferson County Housing Authority (JCHA).

The program is designed to help individuals and families increase earned income, reduce dependence on public assistance, build financial stability, and achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency.

Through personalized coaching, goal planning, community partnerships, and a unique escrow savings opportunity, FSS participants receive the tools and support needed to create a stronger future for themselves and their families.

What Is Self-Sufficiency?
Self-sufficiency means having the ability to meet your family's needs through stable employment, financial management, education, and personal growth.

While every family's journey is different, self-sufficiency often includes:

  • Obtaining and maintaining employment
  • Increasing income earned
  • Completing educational or vocational training
  • Improving credit and financial health
  • Reducing debt
  • Building savings
  • Purchasing a home
  • Starting a business
  • Achieving long-term financial stability

The FSS Program helps participants create a roadmap to reach these goals.

Who Can Participate?
The FSS Program is available to:

  • Families receiving Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) assistance through JCHA
  • Families residing in JCHA Public Housing communities

Participation is completely voluntary and there is no cost to enroll.

How the FSS Program Works

  • Step 1: Enrollment
    Participants meet with an FSS Coordinator to discuss their goals, strengths, and areas of need.

  • Step 2: Individual Training and Services Plan (ITSP)
    Together, the participant and coordinator develop a personalized plan outlining goals and action steps related to:

    • Employment
    • Education
    • Financial literacy
    • Homeownership
    • Health and wellness
    • Asset building

  • Step 3: Access to Supportive Services
    Participants are connected with community resources and partners that can help them achieve their goals.

  • Step 4: Earn Escrow Savings
    As a participant's earned income increases, they may begin accumulating funds in a special escrow savings account.

  • Step 5: Graduate from the Program
    Participants who successfully complete their goals and fulfill program requirements may graduate from FSS and receive their escrow savings.

Why Join FSS?
The FSS Program provides more than housing support-it provides a pathway to long-term success.

Participants gain:

  • Personalized goal planning
  • Professional support and coaching
  • Access to community resources
  • Opportunities to increase income
  • Financial literacy education
  • Escrow savings opportunities
  • A pathway toward homeownership and financial independence

Success Starts with a Plan
Whether your goal is obtaining a better job, completing a degree, purchasing a home, or building financial security for your family, the Family Self-Sufficiency Program can help you get there.

Your future starts today.

To obtain more information, call Cortlin Curry at 205.244.1280 or Tekeyia Jones at 205.244.1383. For your convenience the FSS application update forms are available below to view and print.