Project F.R.E.E. – The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program for Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) holders

What is FSS?
The Family Self-Sufficiency Program is a voluntary work-based program designed to enable eligible families to increase their earned income and become more economically self-sufficient and less dependent on various forms of governmental assistance. In collaboration with local community agencies and businesses, the FSS program combines case management, educational opportunities, job training, and ongoing support to assist families in creating positive changes in their lives.

How Does It Work?
The FSS program assists families in establishing individual goals, identifying potential barriers to those goals, and developing and implementing a plan of action for achieving those goals. Each family signs an FSS Contract of Participation with Bremerton Housing Authority which outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties involved. Each contract term is typically 5 years and includes an individualized plan outlining the family’s goals, planned action steps, and the services and resources needed by the family to achieve those goals. The FSS program assists the family by providing coordination of available community resources and services as needed.

FSS Program Resources & Services
Information Coming Soon! We are scheduled to meet in the coming months to establish an up-to-date network for resources, referrals, and services.

Why FSS?
Upon the execution of a Contract of Participation, Bremerton Housing Authority establishes an interest-bearing escrow account for that family. As the family accesses the resources and services available through the program, the desired outcome is that the family’s earned income will increase. During the family’s participation in the FSS program, any increase in the family’s rent associated with an increase in earned income results in a credit to the family’s escrow account. Once a family graduates from the program, they may access the escrow account for their own personal use- including home ownership.

FSS Program Eligibility
Anyone 18 years of age or older and currently receiving a Bremerton Housing Authority Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) is eligible to participate in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program.

Enrolling in the FSS Program
BHA Housing Specialists refer participants to the program, or you can call BHA directly at 360-479-3694 to inquire about next steps.