Right Column
Demonstrations/Pilot Projects
Family Independence Initiative (FII)
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) approved a CalWORKs waiver for the Family Independence Initiative (FII) project in Alameda County. With the waiver from CDSS, CalWORKs families will have the chance to build assets to help them transition off of welfare, and build the social ties to a larger community that are crucial for maintaining self-sufficiency. As of April 1, 2003, FII will begin this unique three-year pilot project designed to help Alameda County’s low-income and CalWORKs clients achieve that self-sufficiency. FII will work with groups of families in their natural communities and take advantage of existing social networks to encourage and allow people to work together toward economic stability. In partnership with the Alameda County Social Services Agency (SSA), and FII representatives, CDSS will monitor and provide program technical assistance. The FII project will serve as a community link for CalWORKs and low-income families.www.fiinet.org