Family Self-Sufficiency
The Family Self-Sufficiency is a program designed to help low-income families move up and out of the public assistance system with the cooperation of a network of committed community resources. The program asks families to accept responsibility and move toward independence through educational, training and support services. The goal is to eliminate their need for public assistance within five years.
Families receiving housing assistance enter into a contract with the Concord Housing Department to participate in the program. That contract requires families to set goals for themselves and outline a plan of action to reach those goals with support from CHD and other agencies and businesses that have committed time and resources to the program. With counseling, coaching, and one-on-one contact with educators, trainers, and community service providers the families move through step-by-step plan that ultimately results in self-sufficiency.
The incentives for participating in the FSS Program are both personal and monetary
Participants who successfully complete the program receive money that they have accumulated in their Housing Authority or department escrow account. Also, the participant gains self-respect as well as work opportunities that they might not have otherwise.
Families are held accountable for their actions or inactions, and their successes are measurable and reportable. A Program Coordination Committee monitors activity, ensuring needs are met and goals are reached. Families need guidance and support to empower themselves to take control of their lives and become independent, productive members of the community.
The success of the FSS Program depends on the family, businessess in the community, and public assistance providers.
Family Responsibilities
- Commit to a five-year program defining short and long-term goals for personal and professional/career oriented success.
- Work toward goals through education, job training, vocational and career counseling, childcare opportunities and mentor programs.
- Accept responsibility for assistance received, following established rules and regulations for housing and other services being provided.
- Communicate with the FSS Program Coordinators regularly, providing information about progress, setbacks and possible solutions to problems.