From Jobs Plus to FSS

For many residents, Jobs Plus was more than a program; it was a turning point. It provided tools, confidence, and a belief that long-term stability was possible. When the program came to an end, participants weren’t ready to stop growing. They wanted accountability, coaching, and a path that continued to build on the progress they had already made.

That desire to keep moving forward is what led many former Jobs Plus participants to FSS.

Family Self-Sufficiency offers residents a long-term framework to build financial independence while receiving housing assistance. For former Jobs Plus participants, FSS felt like the natural next chapter not a restart, but a continuation.

Enrollment in FSS has steadily increased as residents from Jobs Plus chose to carry their momentum forward, setting new goals around employment, education, credit, and savings.

Laura Martinez, FSS Program Specialist, has played a key role in welcoming these participants into FSS. Having already built trust through prior engagement, many residents felt comfortable continuing their journey with someone who understood their background, challenges, and progress.

Laura works closely with participants to translate short-term wins into long-term plans, helping residents stay focused, motivated, and supported as they redefine success beyond Jobs Plus.

The transition from Jobs Plus to FSS shows what’s possible when residents are given consistent support and clear pathways forward. Programs may change, but the commitment to self-sufficiency remains strong.

At Rockford Housing Authority, the goal is not just participation, it’s progress, and for many former Jobs Plus participants, FSS is where that progress continues.