The Family
Self-Sufficiency
(FSS) Program

The FSS program is the nation’s largest asset-building program for families with low incomes.

FSS is operated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and made available to families living in HUD-assisted housing.

Our asset-building model for FSS combines the program’s powerful savings incentive with client-centered coaching to help residents achieve financial stability. Compass is the first nonprofit organization in the country to leverage FSS in this way.

How it works:

An eligible familyliving in HUD-assisted housing enrolls in FSS

1

Step 1

The family increases their income and pays a proportional increase in rent – like all HUD-assisted households. But, the increase in rent goes into a savings account instead

2

Step 2

As the family’s savings grow, they work toward their goals with the support of a financial coach

3

Step 3

See the results

Families complete the program with $8,500 in savings, on average. They also increase their earned income and credit scores, reduce their debt, and more.

Partners

Compass partners with these public housing agencies and private owners of affordable housing to operate our model for the FSS program:

Program Partners

Boston Housing Authority

Cambridge Housing Authority

Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corporation

Are you interested in joining a Compass FSS program?

Click Here

You are likely eligible for the Compass FSS program if:

You receive financial assistance for housing, such as a Section 8 voucher, mobile housing voucher,

Or if your rent is based on your income and, your housing is provided by one of our housing partners

If you do not get your housing assistance from one of our partners, we encourage you to contact your housing provider to find out if they offer the FSS program and how to join.

Client Stories

Robin

When I finally got the keys to our home, I went in first just by myself. Then, I came back with my kids. They all just started crying and hugging me, telling me how proud they were...

//// Read Robin’s Story

Damali

Mother of three Damali has spent the last two decades learning, saving money, and trying to get ahead. Damali had her first daughter when she had just graduated from high school...

//// Read Damali’s Story

Sydnee

She joined the FSS program with Boston Housing Authority in 2020 with her sights set on becoming a homeowner. She already had a stable income and high credit score...

//// Read Sydnee’s Story

The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program

Partners

Are you interested in joining a Compass FSS program?

Client Stories

The Family
Self-Sufficiency
(FSS) Program