Family Development and Self-Sufficiency (FaDSS)
MISSION: Improve the lives of families at risk of long-term welfare dependency or family instability by creating opportunities for self-sufficiency.
What is FaDSS?
FaDSS (Family Development and Self-Sufficiency) is a statewide voluntary home visitation program. FaDSS is funded by a grant through the Iowa Department of Human Rights. FaDSS is a voluntary program for participants of the Family Investment Program (FIP) and who are working with PROMISE JOBS. Participants are referred to FaDSS from PROMISE JOBS, DHS, Self Referral, and other community partners.
FaDSS
- Builds upon the strengths of each family.
- Helps families move toward individual growth, job retention and economic stability.
- Supports and advocates for families when working with local agencies.
Who is Eligible for FaDSS?
Familes in Butler, Cerro Gordo, Floyd, Franklin, Hancock, Kossuth, Mitchell, Winnebago, or Worth Counties who are:
- Receiving FIP
- Working with PROMISE JOBS Program
- Interested in the participating
Each family is assigned a Family Development Specialist who is Certified by the University of Iowa, National Family Resource Center For Family Centered Practice. The Specialist uses a strength-based approach with the family in the home setting on some of the following:
- Family Goal Setting
- Evaluation of Family Strengths through Assessments
- Budgeting
- Accessing Community Resources
The foundation of FaDSS is regular home visits with families. Using a strength-based approach, FaDSS provides such core services as family support and goal setting. Family assessments identify strengths that each family possess that they may use to eliminate barriers to self-sufficiency. Goal setting helps families break down goals that seem out of reach into small steps that lead to success. Family support is provided through referrals, linking families to community supports and advocacy. Participation in FaDSS is a voluntary option for people receiving Family Investment Program benefits. Families in FaDSS:
- Stay off welfare
- Become employed
- Earn higher wages
- Increase their income
- Access treatment for domestic violence
- Access treatment for substance abuse
- Access treatment for mental health
- Improve their housing
- Achieve educational goals
- Provide a return on investment