Family Self-Sufficiency Program
Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) is a voluntary program that helps Harford County households become economically independent. This program helps families and individuals (participants) learn to take control of their lives and achieve financial independence within five years.
Who is eligible?
Anyone currently participating in Harford County Housing and Community Services' (HCHCS) HCV program who has employment goals and wishes to achieve financial independence may enroll. Participation in the FSS program does not affect a household’s Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) subsidy.
How does FSS work?
The FSS specialist and the participant work together to define and choose career and financial goals. Working as a team, the participant and the FSS specialist identify and eliminate obstacles to financial independence and self-sufficiency.
What about support services?
FSS participants can expect help from their FSS specialist or other community service providers to resolve needs such as
- Childcare
- Transportation
- Education
- Job search and job retention skills
- Financial planning, including credit repair, and home-ownership counseling.
What is the FSS escrow savings account?
Another benefit participants receive is an interest-bearing escrow (savings) account. This accrues as the household’s portion of rent increases because of an increase in earned income. The account is held until the participant successfully completes the contract. The contract can be completed when the participant has completed all their goals before the end of their contract and is free of welfare benefits (Maryland Temporary Cash Assistance) and employed at the time of graduation.
Graduates of the FSS program will not lose their Housing Choice Voucher. The terms for remaining on the HCV program are the same for FSS families as it is for all HCV recipients.
The escrow account and the accrued interest are not required to be reported to any other agency since it is not a resource or property for the participant until successful completion of the contract. In addition, the Internal Revenue Service has ruled that FSS escrow payments are nontaxable.
What are participant responsibilities?
- FSS participants must complete and sign a contract and have a current, signed training plan. The contract and the training plan provide a framework for the participant’s goals and describe the specific activities they must complete.
- Each participant has up to five years to reach their goals. The contract and all the activities on the plan must be completed to access the escrow savings account.
- The participant is also responsible for maintaining contact with their FSS specialist and following through on other commitments established in the contract and plan.
- A participant’s plan is revised and updated as the household moves towards economic self-sufficiency. The program offers households the flexibility to adjust its plan for emergencies and unusual situations.
How do I apply for FSS?
To make an appointment and learn more about FSS please complete and submit this form, or call 410-638-3045.