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Facing financial hardship can be overwhelming, but numerous Delaware hardship program options exist to provide stability for individuals and families. Whether you need help with housing, utility bills, food, or medical care, a network of state agencies and non-profit organizations offers support.
Understanding where to begin is the most critical step. Delaware uses a system of centralized gateways that connect residents to a wide array of specialized services. This structure means that being referred from one agency to another is often a normal and necessary part of the process to get you the exact help you need.
When facing a crisis, knowing who to call first can make all the difference. Delaware has two primary starting points that serve as main entryways into its comprehensive social services network: Delaware 211 for direct, person-to-person guidance and the ASSIST portal for online applications.
Delaware 211: Your First Call for Comprehensive Support
Delaware 211 is the state's most critical human-to-human contact point for navigating social services. Powered by the United Way of Delaware, it is a free, confidential hotline and online service that connects residents to health and human services. It is designed to help with both everyday needs and emergency situations.
Trained specialists are available to provide referrals for a vast range of needs, including:
The impact of this service is significant. It has connected public health nurses with cooling programs for vulnerable patients, guided expectant mothers to Medicaid and WIC benefits, and helped parents of children with autism find specialized therapy services.
How to Connect with Delaware 211
You can reach a specialist in several ways:
https://delaware211.org/.The ASSIST Portal: Apply for Multiple State Benefits Online
The ASSIST (Application for Social Services and Internet Screening Tool) portal is the official online gateway for applying for a wide range of state-administered benefits from the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS). It is the most efficient way to apply for multiple programs at once.
Key Features of the ASSIST Portal
Programs Accessible Through ASSIST
You can access the portal at https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/.
Housing stability is a cornerstone of financial security. Delaware offers several programs to help residents secure and maintain their homes, ranging from rental assistance and eviction prevention to foreclosure aid and emergency repairs.
The landscape of rental assistance has shifted significantly since the end of major pandemic-era funding. This has led to changes in program availability and the launch of new initiatives.
Help with Rent and Eviction Prevention
After the federally funded DEHAP program scaled back, the state launched new initiatives to address ongoing needs.
Housing Stability Program (HSP)
Administered by the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) through non-profit partners, the HSP is a primary resource for renters. It can provide up to $1,800 per month for up to three months in financial assistance for rental arrears, late fees, and security deposits.
Partnering organizations are staffed with Community Navigators. These navigators provide case management and connect clients with other resources.
Delaware Housing Assistance Program (DEHAP)
DEHAP was a large-scale program funded by federal COVID-19 relief money. After reopening in late 2022 with stricter income limits and payment caps, the program closed to new general applications in early 2023. This was due to overwhelming demand and the depletion of funds.
While DEHAP is no longer accepting new applications, some emergency help may still be available. Individuals facing an eviction with a court date should contact one of the program's Community Navigators for potential assistance.
Non-Profit Assistance
Organizations like The Salvation Army and Catholic Charities also provide rental assistance across Delaware's three counties. They often serve as a crucial safety net when state funds are unavailable or have been exhausted.
Emergency Shelter and Homeless Services
For those experiencing homelessness, Delaware has a coordinated entry system. This system ensures there is "no wrong door" to accessing shelter.
Centralized Intake for Shelter
The first and most important step is to contact the statewide Homeless Helpline. This service, managed by the Housing Alliance Delaware, is the central point for accessing emergency shelter beds across the state.
Key Shelter Providers
This centralized system connects individuals to shelters and service providers like the New Castle County Hope Center , Friendship House empowerment centers and transitional housing , and Family Promise. The City of Wilmington also lists numerous emergency and transitional housing options.
Foreclosure Prevention for Homeowners
Homeowners facing foreclosure are not alone. The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) works with a network of partners to provide guidance and assistance.
Connect with Housing Counselors
The most critical step for a homeowner in distress is to contact a free, certified housing counselor. These experts can assess your situation, explain your options, and help you develop a plan to avoid foreclosure. DSHA provides a list of approved housing counselors on its website.
Delaware Mortgage Relief Program
This program successfully provided significant aid, dispersing nearly $11 million to over 1,100 households for mortgage payments. As federal funds expired, DSHA has scaled back this program. This change underscores the importance of contacting a housing counselor early to explore all available options.
Emergency Home Repair Programs
For homeowners facing conditions that threaten their health and safety, the Statewide Emergency Repair Program (SERP) offers vital assistance.
Purpose of SERP
SERP addresses critical issues that threaten health and safety. This includes failing heating systems, dangerous electrical problems, or major plumbing leaks.
Program Administrator
The program is administered statewide by the Milford Housing Development Corporation (MHDC).
How to Apply for SERP
To see if you qualify and to begin the application process, homeowners should call MHDC directly. The numbers are (302) 491-4010 or toll-free at (844) 413-0038.
Several programs in Delaware are designed to help residents manage their energy bills and avoid disconnection. A key feature of this system is that major federal programs are often administered by trusted non-profit organizations.
State and Federal Energy Assistance (LIHEAP and CRISIS)
The Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP) is the state's version of the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). It is administered statewide by Catholic Charities and has two main parts.
To apply for either program, homeowners and renters who meet federal poverty guidelines should contact the Catholic Charities office in their county. The income limit is generally 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Catholic Charities Energy Assistance Contacts
Support from Local Utility Companies and Other Programs
Beyond LIHEAP, several other programs offer utility support.
Access to healthy food is a fundamental need. Delaware has robust programs to help individuals and families put food on the table.
SNAP: Getting Help with Monthly Groceries
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known in Delaware as the Food Supplement Program, helps low-income families purchase food.
How SNAP Works
Benefits are loaded monthly onto a Delaware Food First Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. This card can be used like a debit card at participating grocery stores and farmers markets.
SNAP Eligibility
Eligibility is based on household size and income, typically at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens and reside in Delaware.
How to Apply for SNAP
The fastest way to apply is online through the ASSIST portal. Applications can also be submitted in person at a local Division of Social Services (DSS) office or by mail. For help with the application, you can contact the Food Bank of Delaware, which provides free SNAP outreach and assistance.
WIC: Nutritional Support for Women, Infants, and Children
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a federal program that provides vital support to new and expecting families.
Purpose and Eligibility
WIC serves pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, as well as infants and children up to age 5. To qualify, they must be at nutritional risk and meet income guidelines.
WIC Benefits
The program provides specific nutritious foods, nutrition counseling, and breastfeeding support. It also offers referrals to other health and social services.
How to Apply for WIC
To apply, you must schedule an appointment by calling a local WIC clinic.
Delaware WIC App
Participants can download a mobile app to view their food benefits and check appointments. The app can also be used to scan items at the store to see if they are WIC-approved.
Finding Local Food Pantries and Meal Services
For immediate food needs, Delaware has a network of food closets and pantries.
https://www.fbd.org/) features a comprehensive, searchable directory of its community food pantry partners. The directory is organized by county and includes addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation.Beyond food and housing, several foundational programs provide direct cash payments, health insurance coverage, and income replacement during periods of unemployment.
Temporary Cash Assistance Programs (TANF and General Assistance)
The Division of Social Services administers two primary cash assistance programs.
Applications for both TANF and GA can be started online through the ASSIST portal.
Low-Cost Healthcare Coverage (Medicaid and CHIP)
Delaware offers two key programs for free or low-cost health coverage.
The easiest way to see if you or your family qualify for these programs is to fill out an application at HealthCare.gov or through the state's ASSIST portal. The system will automatically determine your eligibility for Medicaid, CHIP, or a subsidized Marketplace plan.
Unemployment Benefits for Job Loss
Delaware's Unemployment Insurance program provides temporary weekly payments to workers who lose their job through no fault of their own, such as a layoff or business closure.
Eligibility for Unemployment
To qualify, you must be unemployed through no fault of your own and be physically able and available to work. You must also be actively seeking new employment and have earned sufficient wages during a "base period".
How to Apply for Unemployment
Claims should be filed online as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. You can file through the Delaware Department of Labor's website: https://labor.delaware.gov/.
Delaware also offers targeted support for specific populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families needing child care.
Financial and Care Resources for Seniors
The Delaware Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) serves as the central access point for information and services for older Delawareans and adults with disabilities. They can be reached at 1-800-223-9074.
Key programs include:
Support for Delawareans with Disabilities (SSDI and SSI)
The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages two separate disability benefit programs. It is common for people to confuse them, but they have different eligibility rules.
Applications for both SSDI and SSI can be started online at SSA.gov or by contacting a local Social Security office.
Child Care Assistance (Purchase of Care Program)
The Purchase of Care (POC) program helps low-income families afford child care. This assistance enables parents to work, attend school, or participate in job training.
Eligibility for POC
The program is available for children under age 13 (or older if they have a documented special need). Eligibility is based on the family's income, which must be at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Co-payments
Most families are required to pay a portion of their child care costs. This co-payment is based on a sliding fee scale determined by family size and income.
How to Apply for POC
Families can apply for POC through the ASSIST portal. Applications can also be submitted by contacting a local Division of Social Services office.
Navigating these programs can be complex. This directory provides a quick reference to the primary organizations and contact points for accessing financial hardship assistance in Delaware.
| Agency/Organization Name | Primary Service Type | Primary Phone Number | Website / Application Portal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware 211 | General Information & Referral | 2-1-1 or 1-800-560-3372 | https://delaware211.org/ |
| DHSS ASSIST Portal | State Benefits Application | 1-866-843-7212 | https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/ |
| Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) | Housing Assistance & Foreclosure Prevention | 1-888-363-8808 | https://www.destatehousing.com/ |
| Catholic Charities | Utility Assistance (LIHEAP), Rental Aid | See county numbers above | https://www.ccwilm.org/ |
| The Salvation Army | Rental/Utility Aid, Food, Shelter | See local corps numbers | https://pa.salvationarmy.org/delaware-command/ |
| Food Bank of Delaware | Food Pantries & SNAP Application Help | (302) 292-1305 | https://www.fbd.org/ |
| Delaware Dept. of Labor | Unemployment Insurance | 1-800-794-3032 | https://labor.delaware.gov/ |
| Delaware ADRC | Senior & Disability Services | 1-800-223-9074 | https://delawareadrc.com/ |
| Homeless Helpline | Emergency Shelter Intake | 1-833-346-3233 | https://www.housingalliancede.org/ |
| Social Security Administration | Disability Benefits (SSDI/SSI) | 1-800-772-1213 | https://www.ssa.gov/ |
Yes, you can and often should apply for multiple programs. Since each Delaware hardship program has unique eligibility rules and funding, applying for several types of aid (e.g., SNAP for food and LIHEAP for utilities) can create a more comprehensive support system to address your financial challenges effectively.
For immediate needs, calling 2-1-1 is the most direct first step. They can connect you with crisis intervention services and local non-profits like The Salvation Army or Catholic Charities that may offer rapid emergency assistance for rent, utilities, or shelter, often with a faster turnaround than state programs.
Absolutely. The Delaware Prescription Assistance Program (DPAP) helps with medication costs, and the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD) offers numerous supportive services. These programs are designed specifically to supplement fixed incomes and address the unique needs of older Delawareans.
If your application is denied, you have the right to an appeal. The denial letter must explain the reason and provide instructions on how to request a Fair Hearing. You can also contact Delaware Legal Help Link for free legal advice on navigating the appeals process for state benefits.
Citizenship requirements vary by program. Federal programs like SNAP and TANF often require U.S. citizenship or "qualified non-citizen" status. However, some community-based aid and emergency services, particularly for food and shelter, may be available to residents regardless of their immigration status. Always check with the specific program provider.
Delaware defines hardship based on specific criteria for each program, but it generally involves having an income below a certain percentage of the Federal Poverty Level or Area Median Income. It also considers factors like having dependent children, a disability, or facing an unforeseen crisis like job loss or medical emergency.
While less common, some programs can assist with transportation. TANF recipients may be eligible for vehicle repair assistance if it is essential for maintaining employment through the "Employment & Training" component. Additionally, Delaware 2-1-1 can sometimes connect you to local charities that may offer limited help for essential car repairs.
Yes, some assistance is available. Delaware's Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD) offers a Senior School Property Tax Credit. Homeowners should also contact the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) to inquire about any available mortgage or homeowner assistance that may prevent tax foreclosure.
Generally, no. Benefits from programs like SNAP, WIC, LIHEAP, and Medicaid are not considered taxable income by the IRS. However, unemployment benefits are an exception and are considered taxable. It is always best to consult with a tax professional regarding your specific circumstances and the benefits you receive.
Organizations like Stand By Me Delaware offer free financial coaching and counseling services. They can help you create a budget, manage debt, improve your credit, and develop a long-term plan to move beyond your current hardship. Their services are available to all Delaware residents seeking financial stability.
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