FaDSS

Families building on their strengths to reach their goals

Are you looking for ways to build a brighter future for you and your family? We can help!
The FaDSS (Family Development and Self-Sufficiency) Program can help you achieve economic and social self-sufficiency and achieve the quality of life you want for yourself and your children.

What is FaDSS?
A voluntary program for families who are receiving FIP benefits in Iowa.
A partnership with a Family Development Specialist.
An in-home program so you won't have to worry about childcare and transportation for meetings.
Designed to achieve results to overcome barriers identified by families.
A great opportunity for you to build upon your family's strengths in order to achieve self-sufficiency.

Who is Eligible?
You are eligible if you participate in the Family Investment Program (FIP) and meet one of the following requirements:

• You have three or more children or
• A parent has not completed high school or obtained a GED or
• The household has been a participant in FIP several times or
• The head of the household is unemployed or underemployed or
• The household has other barriers to self-sufficiency.

What is a Family Development Specialist?
A Family Development Specialist is an advocate who is trained to assist you and your family identify, plan and achieve goals. Your Specialist will assist you to benefit from all available community resources. Your Specialist will provide you with encouragement and support to help your family to move ahead, one step at a time.

How does the FaDSS Program work?
A FaDSS Specialist will meet with you at least once a month and:

• Help you take a look at your family's strengths as well as areas where you would like to make improvements.
• Work with you to identify your goals and make plans to reach them.
• Build confidence in your abilities and assist you to advocate for yourself.

How will FaDSS help my family?
FaDSS will help your family to:

• Learn skills to become independent of FIP benefits
• Learn to set goals and plan for the future
• Learn to maintain a healthy family environment
• Obtain emergency financial assistance

How can I join the FaDSS program?
Just call your Community Action Center and ask to speak to someone from FaDSS to set up a meeting and see if FaDSS seems right for you.
You can also ask your PROMISE JOBS or DHS worker for a referral to the FaDSS Program.
All Community Action of Southeast Iowa Programs are open to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, age or disability.