FAMILY SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAMS (FSS) 
 

The Family Self-Sufficiency Program is for low-income families that are receiving Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher assistance and want to become financially independent.

Families that elect to participate in this program will set goals that will help them to become free of welfare assistance and become self-sufficient.  They enter into a contract with the Housing Authority.  This contract is geared to meet the families’ need for services.  It also spells out the goals and objectives, which the family must fulfill during the contract term. 

To enroll, the head of the household must be willing to enroll in school, a job training program, or find a job that will enable the family to become self-sufficient.  Adults must seek and maintain suitable employment. 

The program has developed an escrow savings plan that sets aside money for the family while the family is working towards self-sufficiency.  The Housing Authority will contribute money to the escrow account for the family whenever their earned income increases.  The money becomes available to the family upon successful completion of the Contract of Participation. 

Please call the Housing Authority at 301-866-6590 x1441 or E-mail us at dena_bell@co.saint-marys.md.us if you are interested in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program.