The FSS Program is a voluntary five-year program designed to help families build financial stability and achieve long-term economic independence through personalized guidance from dedicated coordinators.

Whether your goals include completing a degree, increasing income, improving credit, purchasing a home, or building savings, FSS provides the structure and support to help you get there.

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Identify barriers

Surface personal and professional obstacles with your coordinator.

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Education & career

Support for degrees, skill-building, and career advancement.

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Goal planning

A clear, achievable plan with milestones and accountability.

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Community connections

Referrals to local agencies matched to your situation.

The FSS Escrow Account — A Built-In Savings Opportunity

As your earned income increases, a portion of the resulting rent increase is set aside in a dedicated savings account on your behalf — building real savings without extra money out of pocket.

Economic freedom

Career & job training opportunities

Financial literacy & money management

Access to community resources

Long-term stability for your family

Who Can Participate?

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Head of Household

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18 years of age or older

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Receiving housing assistance through HACA

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Holds a PBV or HCV voucher

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions About FSS

What is the Family Self-Sufficiency Program?

The FSS Program supports individuals and families who want to increase earnings and move toward financial independence. Participants partner with a case manager to set goals focused on education, employment, and financial growth — preparing for a transition from subsidized housing to market-rate housing or homeownership.

How do I enroll?

Participation is voluntary. Contact FSS Program Manager Karolina Hopkins at khopkins@haca.org. PBV and HCV residents may also download an application and submit it to residentservices@haca.org.

Where can I get an application?

Applications can be downloaded online and submitted to residentservices@haca.org.

What benefits does the program offer?

Participants receive guidance from a dedicated FSS Coordinator. Depending on funding availability, additional assistance may include transportation support, educational assistance, community referrals, and budgeting/financial coaching.

How long does the program last?

The program has a five-year term. Participants may graduate early or withdraw. A two-year extension may be granted if additional time is needed.

Is there a cost to participate?

No. The Family Self-Sufficiency Program is offered at no cost to eligible participants.

Is transportation assistance available?

Yes. Transportation assistance may be provided based on available funding and employment status.

Karolina Hopkins — FSS Program Manager

khopkins@haca.org

Youth Services · After-School Program

Chosen PODS

Positive Opportunities Develop Success — a collaborative, community-led after-school program serving students K–12 in Asheville in a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment.

📅 Monday – Friday · 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Our Mission

Creating a nurturing environment where children are empowered to explore their full potential through positive opportunities.

Our Vision

An inspiring after-school environment where every child is empowered with opportunities that foster personal growth and resilience.

Core Values

Foster a supportive, encouraging environment where every child feels valued, motivated, and ready to succeed.

Tarina Jackson — Youth Services Program Lead

(828) 259-7102

Resources for Every Need

Community Resources

At HACA, we believe housing is just the beginning. Our Resident Resources page connects individuals and families with the tools, programs, and community partnerships that support long-term stability, growth, and opportunity — from employment support and education to financial empowerment, youth services, and health resources.

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Food Resources

MANNA FoodBank, YMCA Mobile Markets, Food Connection, and other local food assistance programs.

View Resources

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Employment Resources

NCWorks Career Center, Goodwill, vocational rehabilitation, and other job placement services.

View Resources

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Health & Wellness

Local health clinics, behavioral health services, dental care, and mental health resources.

View Resources

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Childcare Resources

Head Start, subsidized childcare, early learning centers, and referral services for families.

View Resources

Resident Council

A democratically elected body of residents who work to enhance the living environment, represent resident interests, and foster a strong sense of community — serving as a liaison between residents, HACA management, and Commissioners.

Angela Clemmons

aclemmons@haca.org

Learn More →

→Increase the number of resident organizations in our communities
→Increase resident involvement in community activities
→Enhance the organization’s relationship with HACA residents
→Create a more family-oriented atmosphere in our communities
→Host events and programs that assist residents in becoming self-sufficient
→Develop special initiatives for youth and community-wide celebrations

Homeownership

Housing Choice Voucher Holders

Homeownership Program

Helping make your dream of homeownership a reality. If you are currently receiving housing assistance, you may be able to use your subsidy toward owning a home.

🏠 Housing Choice Voucher Holders✅ Veterans✅ Elderly / Disabled

About the Program

What is the Homeownership Program?

The Homeownership Program is designed to promote and support the homeownership goals of a “first-time” homeowner. If you are currently receiving housing assistance through the Asheville Housing Authority, you can continue to use your subsidy towards owning a home.

The Homeownership Program works like the rental subsidy program with one key difference: the mortgage subsidy program provides an opportunity for you to achieve the American Dream of Homeownership.

Eligibility

How Do I Qualify?

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First-Time Homeowner

You must be a first-time homeowner to participate in the Homeownership Program.

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Employment Requirement

At least one year of continuous employment required. Elderly or disabled households are excluded from this requirement.

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Homebuyer Education

You must complete a homebuyer education class as part of the program qualification process.

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Mortgage Qualification

You must be able to qualify for a mortgage through a reputable lender in Buncombe County.

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Rental Assistance History

You must have been receiving rental assistance through the Asheville Housing Authority for at least one year.

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All Households Welcome

All households, including elderly and disabled heads-of-household, are eligible to purchase a home through this program.

Please fill out and return the Homeownership Interest Form below for a complete list of requirements. A Homeownership Advisor will contact you.

Program Details

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will I receive mortgage assistance?

With a 20-year or more mortgage, HACA will assist you for 15 years. With a 20-year or less mortgage, assistance is provided for 10 years. For elderly or disabled families, assistance is provided indefinitely — however, you must still meet program qualifications.

Do I need money for a down payment?

Depending on the lender’s requirements, you may be responsible for a down payment. HACA partners with organizations that can provide down payment assistance.

What happens after being approved by a lender?

The next step is to find a reputable real estate agent to start looking for homes in Buncombe County.

Are inspections required?

You will be responsible for obtaining and paying for your home inspection, which could range from $300–$400. HACA will also conduct a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection at no cost to you.

What is required once I move in?

A HACA inspector will conduct annual inspections to ensure the unit meets Housing Quality Standards. You must also complete a Recertification package annually to determine the portion of assistance provided toward your mortgage.

What if my income or household size changes?

Report any changes in your household size or income to your assigned Housing Agent in writing immediately.

Get Started

Homeownership Interest Form