Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS)-Participant Guide

Participant Guide - Family Self-Sufficiency

Pdf Summary

This document is a comprehensive training and resource guide for the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program, structured into multiple modules covering policy, implementation, and case management. The FSS program, guided by HUD regulations (24 CFR parts 984 and 887), aims to promote economic independence and self-sufficiency among low-income families receiving housing assistance. Initially developed in the 1980s and revised through various laws including the National Affordable Housing Act (1990) and Economic Growth Act (2018), the most recent rules became effective in 2022, emphasizing updated escrow account calculations, action plan requirements, and program scope.<br /><br />Key components include program requirements, such as developing HUD-approved Action Plans that establish local goals, family selection procedures without discrimination, and incentives like escrow accounts that help families save as their income rises. Program Coordinating Committees must be formed involving stakeholders and families to assist implementation. Marketing and recruitment strategies are provided to engage eligible families effectively.<br /><br />Case management plays a critical role, involving client assessments, identifying barriers, setting individualized goals through an Individual Training and Services Plan (ITSP), and monitoring progress toward self-sufficiency, such as employment and welfare independence. The guide emphasizes motivational interviewing and strengths-based approaches to build clients' confidence.<br /><br />The document explains escrow account management where rent increases due to earned income growth are credited, detailing calculation methods and reporting requirements to HUD. Homeownership options under the program are discussed, including eligibility and assistance limits.<br /><br />Reporting and compliance include using HUD's PIC/IMS systems for enrollment and progress, handling portability, and monitoring through HUD’s FSS Composite Score and SEMAP indicators, which measure earnings growth, program participation, and graduation rates.<br /><br />Included are practical exercises, example cases illustrating goal setting and case management dilemmas, and the official Contract of Participation form (HUD-52650) outlining participant and agency responsibilities, terms, and conditions for program engagement. This extensive resource supports PHAs, housing authorities, and agencies in effectively administering the FSS program to help families achieve economic stability and reduce dependency on public assistance.

Keywords

Family Self-Sufficiency Program

HUD regulations

economic independence

housing assistance

escrow accounts

Action Plans

case management

Individual Training and Services Plan

program compliance

homeownership assistance