Family Self-Sufficiency Program

At a glance

What: The Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) helps Section 8 participants raise income, save through escrow accounts and work toward homeownership.
Where it stands: Update and impact report to Council on October 13, 2026; no vote.
Next: Planned expansion to youth in public housing and the Emergency Housing Voucher program, and growth from 50 to 75 participants.

11 graduates in 2025-2026; $89,077 in escrow funds paid out over two years; three participants became homeowners and two more were in the process.
Tools: case management, budgeting, credit counseling, support groups, vision boards, life assessments.
Escrow savings build as a participant's rent rises with income; participants have used them to pay debt and student loans or save for children's college or a home. Homeownership is offered but not required.
Letters go to eligible residents aged 19 to 62 regardless of income; staff keep lists of Section 8, public housing and youth participants.
Jose Quevedo spent 19 years in Section 8, bought a home in 2025, and received $50,000 in forgivable down payment assistance from Trellis, a program partner.
Council members including Turner, Baldenegro and Mayor Weiers thanked staff and congratulated him.

Program impact report and a participant's testimony. No vote.