Housing Counseling Programs

The Housing Authority of the County of Butler offers a wide range of services that combine direct assistance with counseling to help individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency. Programs such as the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program and the HAB Scholarship are designed to support individuals already receiving services through HACB, while other programs—such as SHOP and the First-Time Homebuyer (FTHB) programs—are open to the public and assist participants in achieving their long-term goals.

Text-heavy informational flyer about the Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) offered by the Housing Authority of Butler County, detailing eligibility, benefits, and services such as child care, credit counseling, GED prep, resume development, employment assistance, and program graduation.

Family Self-Sufficiency Program

The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program helps families achieve economic independence by supporting short- and long-term goals related to employment, education, and financial stability. Through personalized case management, families are connected to community resources such as job training, education, childcare, and financial counseling. Participants sign a voluntary Contract of Participation, tailored to their needs, for up to five years. The program also offers an escrow savings account that allows families to build assets as their earned income increases. Participation in FSS does not affect a family’s housing assistance.

For more information, contact the Resident Initiatives Department at 724-287-6797.


HACB’s Scholarship

A person in a graduation gown and cap standing outdoors, with text overlay about an annual scholarship program, important dates, requirements, and contact information.

The HACB Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to eligible participants pursuing post-secondary education or career training. The program is designed to support educational advancement and long-term self-sufficiency by helping offset costs such as tuition, fees, and required educational expenses.

For more information, contact the Resident Initiatives Department at 724-287-6797.

2026 Scholarship Application

HACB accepts sponsorships for its scholarship program to support motivated individuals in achieving post-secondary education. If you or your company are interested in contributing, please click the button below to make a donation.


First Time Homebuyer Program

Flyer for First Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance program. Features a picture of a miniature house on a tablet, with two people in the background. Text details eligibility, required documentation, and contact information.

Achieving the Dream

The First Time Home-buyer Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance Program (PDF) helps low- to moderate-income individuals and families achieve the American Dream of owning a home. With this program, the Housing Authority will match dollar for dollar a First Time homebuyer's contributions up to 50% of the total down payment/closing costs not to exceed $5,000.

If qualified, the Housing Authority will match the homebuyer's contribution to close on the new home up to $5,000 or half of  closing costs. 1% of your contribution must be from the participant.

This program is open to the public.

For more information, contact the Resident Initiatives Department at 724-287-6797, option 7.

We are currently are serving participants for this program, sponsored by Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.


Supported Housing Opportunity Program (SHOP)

Flyer for a free public workshop titled 'Renting 101' with information about topics covered including cash incentives, financial counseling, and gift cards. The event is held at 114 Woody Drive, Butler, PA, on the third Tuesday of each month at 1:30 PM, with class dates listed for 2026. The flyer includes contact information, QR code, and logos of housing programs.

Renting 101

Preparing participants to enter the housing market with all the necessary knowledge and skills to be a successful renter.

Successful graduates will receive:

  • All necessary paperwork to complete a rental application

  • A copy of their Credit Report and Credit Score

  • A possibility of receiving monies up to $500

  • A SHOP portfolio

  • An average of 4 hours of housing counseling and credit/budgeting

  • A SHOP certificate of completion

This program is open to the public.

For more information, call our office at 724-287-6797 and press option 7.