Family Self-Sufficiency

The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program is a 5-year program offered by the Housing Authority of St. Louis County to all Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Housing Choice Voucher participants who are working toward becoming self-sufficient.  Enrollment is voluntary and failure to sign up will not impact rental assistance.

A FSS Coordinator provides participants with help in setting goals and locating necessary resources.  A FSS Coordinator evaluates where participants are currently, versus where they would like to be, and suggests ways to meet those goals.

Participation does not require a participant to have any special skills. They are required to actively seek and maintain employment or attend school or vocational job training.

When participating in the FSS program, a participant becomes eligible for an escrow account.   As the participant increases their earned income, they pay more for their portion of the rent.  HUD matches the rent increase with money in an escrow account set up by the Housing Authority of St. Louis County in the participant’s name.  The money in the escrow account is awarded to the participant if they successfully complete the program.

At the end of the 5 years if a participant has successfully completed the requirements below, they will be considered a graduate of the FSS program.

1. All participants must be welfare free one year prior to graduation. They may not be receiving any TANF.  Participants are allowed to receive food stamps and Medicaid.
2. All participants must be employed full-time. The definition of full-time may vary depending on the type of employment.
3. All participants must have met their set goals established with the FSS Coordinator.
4. All participants must be in good standing with their present landlord.

Upon successful graduation, a check will be issued for the amount of escrow and any interest the account has earned.  Receipt of the escrow check does not affect the participant’s Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) rental assistance.