Family Self-Sufficiency Program

Do you have the goal of becoming a homeowner, opening a business or furthering your education? The Family-Self Sufficiency (FSS) program is available to motivated individuals participating in the Housing Choice Voucher program, also known as Section 8, or living in public housing residences looking to decrease and ultimately end dependence on public assistance.

How does the program work?

Qualifying participants are selected to participate in the program and are then connected with an FSS coordinator. Together, participants and coordinators outline specific goals the participant would like to achieve over the next five or less years.

As goals are reached and income is increased, the difference between the increased rent payment and the prior rent payment amount is placed in an interest-bearing escrow account.

Once a participant has reached all the goals set forth, he or she will receive a check for the amount earned via the escrow account to pursue the next phase in his or her self-sufficiency journey.

What benefits does the program offer?

Along with the escrow account established for participants, the FSS program provides education and counseling in the following areas:

  • Career counseling
  • Education counseling
  • Money management
  • Credit rehabilitation
  • Homeownership basics

What do I need to do to sign up?

All interested individuals must currently be participating in the Housing Choice Voucher, or Section 8, rental assistance program or be a public housing resident.

It is a requirement of the program that anyone interested attend an orientation that more specifically defines the program goals and parameters.

Eligibility will then be verified and selected individuals will be notified of their admittance into the program.

How do I sign up for orientation or connect with an FSS coordinator?

If you are a current resident of one of THA’s public housing sites, you may visit your location’s office and request an FSS interest form. After completing the interest form you may return it to your property manager or leasing agent.

For information or to enroll contact:

Tanya Ratliff918-581-5757 or  tanya.ratliff@tulsahousing.org

Carlos Reyes Rodriguez 918-581-5785 or carlos.reyesrodriguez@tulsahousing.org 

If you are a Housing Choice Voucher program participant, you may request an interest form from your housing coordinator. You can then return the form to your housing coordinator once completed.