Project Self Suffiencency Foundation

PSS Scholars Program

Project Self-Sufficiency is an Orange County-based nonprofit that serves low-income single parents who are enrolled in college or vocational training.  To access financial support and services, prospective PSS scholars must meet all eligibility criteria and submit an online application.  PSS supports scholars on average for 2-4 years until they graduate with their bachelor’s degrees.  Eligibility criteria include: -Very low or extremely low income according to HUD income limits for Orange County-Single parent of a minor child (not living with a partner/significant other) -Have at least 50% physical/legal custody of at least one minor child -Enrolled in community college or university working toward your Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree and were enrolled in classes the semester prior to applying. -Have 3.0 GPA (most recent or cumulative) -Have a source of income (not necessarily employment) -Live, work, or attend college in Orange County, CA Vocational programs are accepted on a case-by-case basis.   Upon being accepted into the PSS program, scholars have access to the following suite of services: - Case management with goal setting and accountability - Emergency rental assistance & security deposit assistance - Childcare assistance - Textbook reimbursements and help with school fees - Annual scholarship opportunities - Basic needs support, such as diapers, laundry detergent, and other household necessities - Access to the PSS Professional Development program, which includes mentoring opportunities, career readiness workshops, in-person networking events, and funding for professional headshots, interview clothing, etc. - Seasonal holiday support - Supplemental dental and vision services for the parent - Auto repair assistance Not all scholars access each service and are instead encouraged to focus on their most pressing needs. PSS is designed to be a supplemental resource. It’s financially and logistically challenging for a single mom or dad to juggle college classes, work, and raising kids on their own, but that education is essential to landing a job that can support their families long-term. PSS keeps that single parent in school by offering these wraparound-style services to help fill in the gap and help them launch their careers post-graduation. Graduates of the program become professionals and taxpayers in the community.