The primary purpose and goal of the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program is to help Section 8 families transition from government subsidies to a status of being economically independent, self-reliant and free of government subsidies.  The City and State of Hawaii, Hawaii Public Housing Authority (HPHA), jointly rekindled the Family Self-Sufficiency Program on Oahu to assist their housing families with opportunities to enchance their employability skills that will help them obtain jobs and benefits and attain self-sufficiency.

Since the housing barrier is addressed by the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payment Program outlined above, FSS provides life coping workshops. FSS also networks to secure resources to help participants secure employment in survival jobs while they pursue their long term educational and/or vocational goals to improve their future. Once participants are hired in a survival job, the City Section 8 office establishes and maintains a savings account for the family based on their monthly rental increase. When the family fulfills their FSS contract, they become eligible to receive the FSS savings. Families attain "true self-sufficiency" because they are free of government subsidies, have secured a good job with benefits and now have substantial savings that can help them obtain an "The American Dream".  They can use the savings for a down payment towards home ownership, a car, continue their education or to use as they choose.

If you would like more information regarding the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program, please call the FSS program (808) 768-7090.