Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) is a voluntary program for tenants leased up on Section 8 and VASH. This program assists tenants in achieving economic independence and self-sufficiency. Participants meet regularly with a case manager who assists them in identifying and working towards goals. Special attention is placed on achieving employment, job training, and education, which will hopefully lead to the elimination of welfare (cash) assistance and eventually, the ability to afford housing without assistance. Participants sign a contract for five years, with a possibility of extension if needed.
An interest-bearing savings plan is also a benefit of this program. Based on increases in earned income of the family, an escrow credit is credited to this account by the Salina Housing Authority during the term of the FSS contract. If the participant completes the contract and no member in the household has received cash assistance in the past 12 months, the money accumulated in the savings account is awarded to the participant less any money owed to the Housing Authority.
Please contact Marci Gawith, FSS Coordinator at (785) 827-0441 x 211, with any questions or interest in the program!
