West Chester, PA November 07, 2026 --(PR.com)-- Milestone ceremony highlights local residents achieving economic independence and transitioning toward homeownership through HUD’s FSS Program.
The Housing Authority of the County of Chester (HACC) celebrated a transformative evening on Monday, November 2, 2026, awarding a collective $132,000+ in saved escrow funds to eight local families graduating from the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program.
Hosted at the Milestone Events Center in West Chester, the ceremony highlighted the power of structured mentorship, financial coaching, and HUD’s unique asset-building program in breaking the cycle of generational poverty across Chester County.
Executive Director Paul Diggs, Brenda Gomez, and Owen Duncan presented the graduates with their escrow checks. Under the FSS program guidelines, as participants increase their earned income, the corresponding increase in their portion of rent is set aside by HACC into an interest-bearing escrow account. Upon completing their personalized goals and graduating, participants receive 100% of those funds with zero restrictions on usage.
"This graduation is proof that when provided with the right tools, mentorship, and opportunities, families in our community can achieve sustainable, long-term financial independence," said Paul Diggs, Executive Director of HACC. "Handing over more than $132,000 to these hard-working individuals is not just a celebration for HACC, but a powerful message of hope for every family currently receiving housing assistance in Chester County."
Beyond immediate financial relief, participation in the FSS program serves as a critical stepping stone for HACC’s Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program. Enrolled families work directly with one-on-one case managers to eliminate debt, boost credit scores, build career paths, and position themselves to buy their first homes in the greater Philadelphia region.
For the eight graduates, the funds awarded will directly support long-term economic stability, including down payments on homes, educational advancement, and small business capital.
Address:
30 W. Barnard Street, Suite 2
West Chester, PA 19382
Phone: 610-436-9200
Website: www.haccnet.org
About the Housing Authority of the County of Chester (HACC):
The Housing Authority of the County of Chester provides safe, decent, and affordable housing opportunities to low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities throughout Chester County, Pennsylvania. Through innovative self-sufficiency programs, HACC empowers residents to achieve financial stability and improve their quality of life. Learn more at www.haccnet.org.
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