Family Self-Sufficiency Graduation and Sign Up Event
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FSS Graduate Shavon Mitchell speaks to new signees |
Director of Housing Ava Hewitt shares program information to FSS attendees |
WCHA Executive Director Felts Lewis (pictured left) presents $14,000 check to FSS Graduate Shavon Williams and family with FSS Coordinator Timia Johnson (second from the right) standing with the graduate |
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New FSS Coordinator Timia Johnson |
FAMILY SELF-SUFFICIENCY PARTICIPANT GRADUATES, EARNS OVER $14,000
ZEBULON: Wake County Housing Authority (WCHA) staff gathered today to honor Ms. Shevon Mitchell as a Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program graduate. Ms. Mitchell, a Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) holder, spent five years in the program, accomplished self-identified goals, earned income, remained current on rent and stayed off welfare programs. The result was Ms. Mitchell being awarded a check for over $14,000.
"Don't be stuck on it, build on it," said Mitchell to over 10 new FSS program participants. "Set goals that are realistic [to graduate the program.]"
Mitchell, a single mother of three children, used the resources provided by an FSS Coordinator to help navigate life's challenges. Mitchell saved money, paid bills with being unemployed for a brief period and balanced household and parenting responsibilities. The FSS program and its coordinator played a vital role in Mitchell achieving graduation despite obstacles.
Ms. Timia Johnson, WCHA's FSS Coordinator, shared the basics of the program with current public housing and HCV participants. From improving credit scores, paying off debt and going back to school, Johnson shared that resources from various local organizations will be available.
FSS helps low- and very low-income families achieve economic independence by increasing earnings, building financial assets, and reducing reliance on public assistance. Established by the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the FSS Program is geared for persons that are part of federal housing programs. Participation is voluntary and personalized plans are developed for achieving goals.
Each time an FSS participant whose income is less than 80 percent of the area median income pays rent, a portion goes to a special (escrow) account monthly. If income increases rent increases. The increase amount goes into the escrow account. Funds earn interest. When goals are met within five years, the participant can withdraw all available funds for a first home, paying off outstanding debt, transportation and for many other needs.
WCHA invites current public housing and HCV participants to sign up for the FSS Program TODAY by contacting Ms. Johnson via email at tjohnson@hacwnc.org.