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.

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.

Helpful Links: FSS Program Brochure / FSS Intake Form

HACB’s Scholarship

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.

Support the Cause

First Time Homebuyer Program

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)

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