The City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa Housing Services Office has been authorized to develop and administer a Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program. The objectives of the FSS Program are to reduce the dependency of Section 8 tenant participants on welfare and other public assistance programs and enhance economic independence through community coordinated efforts including: high school diploma and higher education programs, job training, employment opportunities, personal social and life skill training, child care programs, personal financial management, counseling and related social service assistance.
General Selection Requirements:
- FSS participants must be approved tenants in the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program.
- All potential FSS participants will receive information in the Section 8 Briefing folder and will be invited to participate in the FSS Program shortly after they sign their Section 8 Lease.
- FSS Applicants will be required to attend an orientation session and complete a Family Self-Sufficiency Assessment.
- The family’s willingness to complete the obligations of the FSS Contract.
- The number of families participating in the FSS Program may exceed the 120 mandatory slots, if there are eligible and interested families.
FSS Activities & Supportive Services
- Assessment and Planning: Complete Assessment.
- Individualized Goal Planning: Family will meet with Housing and Family Specialist to assist the family in developing a plan to accomplish their goals.
- Referrals: to programs and services offered by community agencies.
- Educational and Vocational Groups: Families will have access to group activities that are held at various service agencies.
- Escrow Account: The Housing and Family Specialist will work with the family to determine the amount of their escrow account and will determine completion of the FSS Contract.
Incentives to Encourage Family Participation:
- Housing Services will establish an escrow account for FSS participants when eligible.
- Opportunity to select services that will assist the family in developing the necessary skills and securing the resources to become self-sufficient.
- The opportunity to develop supportive relationships.
- The opportunity to receive individualized assistance and encouragement.
Helpful Links & Forms
FSS Newsletter Volume 2; Issue 7
FSS Newsletter Volume 2; Issue 8
FSS Newsletter Volume 2; Issue 9
FSS Newsletter Volume 2, Issue 10
FSS Newsletter Volume 2; Issue 11
FSS Newsletter Volume 2; Issue 12
