What is Family PASS?

Family Preservation and Strengthening Service (Family PASS) is a three year rental assistance program combined with intensive case management. The ultimate goal is family stabilization and self-sufficiency. Participants must be either homeless or paying more than 30% of their income in housing costs. In addition, participants must be willing to participate in an intensive case management program.

Many families with young children who are working full-time in Fairfax County cannot afford the cost of housing. While subsidized housing exists, the waiting list to be accepted into this housing typically runs two to three years. During that time, working families run the risk of losing their housing, their jobs, and even custody of their children. Struggling families must become homeless before they are eligible for assistance. That’s when Family PASS steps in.

A Family PASS case manager meets with the clients to complete an individualized needs assessment. Once this is accomplished, the family will schedule regular sessions with our case manager to develop and implement a strategy for regaining self-sufficiency. Along with financial support for rent payments, our staff case manager will provide referrals to services that include education and training, family/couples counseling, help with creditors and budget counseling, and other emotional support as needed.

Families at risk may be referred to the program by local churches, social service agencies, or the Department of Family Services. In order to qualify for rent stipends, candidates may not receive any housing benefits from government agencies or the private sector. All services provided by Family PASS are free of charge to qualifying clients.