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Resident and FAR speakers urge access to FSS and highlight resident programs
Summary
A resident raised concerns that the Family Self‑Sufficiency program may not be available to some CRHA participants; staff explained eligibility depends on who administers the assistance. FAR reported internships, trainings and resident events.
Terry Tyree, a South First Street resident and Virginia Organizer intern, told the board he could not enroll in the Family Self‑Sufficiency (FSS) program after transferring with his Section 8 voucher and asked whether the program is unavailable to certain CRHA tenants.
Tyree said he had participated in FSS while living under a different housing authority and that he expects similar access after moving to CRHA properties. "I cannot get into the FSS program... I just don't feel like that's fair," he said during public comment.
Don Sales, CRHA executive director, explained that FSS participation depends on which agency administers the assistance: Charlottesville can enroll HCV (housing choice voucher) participants administered locally, while the public housing‑specific FSS slots are only for residents served under public housing. He added that individuals can transfer administration from one housing authority to another to participate in FSS.
Sofia Marrero, community organizer with the Public Housing Association of Residents (FAR), updated the board on resident programming: FAR launched a six‑month internship class, held financial‑literacy workshops with Piedmont Housing Alliance, ran a Fall Fest and bingo night, and is organizing know‑your‑rights trainings on leasing and policing with additional sessions planned on immigrant rights.
Why it matters: access to FSS is a pathway to economic stability for voucher holders; resident education and events increase awareness of rights and services. Staff invited Tyree to follow up after the meeting to determine administrative options for accessing FSS.
