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Accessing Delaware assistance programs is a crucial step for many residents seeking stability and support for their families. The state offers a wide array of services designed to help with food, housing, healthcare, cash needs, and employment.
Understanding how to connect with these resources is the first step. Delaware has streamlined this process through several key entry points, ensuring that no matter where an individual starts, they can be guided to the right services for their situation.
Navigating the landscape of state support can feel overwhelming, but Delaware has established a coordinated system to simplify access for residents. Rather than requiring individuals to contact dozens of separate offices, the state promotes a "no wrong door" approach centered on three primary gateways: a comprehensive online portal, a statewide information hotline, and in-person service centers. These centralized systems are the most effective starting points for anyone seeking help.
Delaware ASSIST: The Online Gateway to Benefits
Delaware ASSIST (Application for Social Service Programs) is the state's official online platform for screening and applying for multiple health and social service programs simultaneously. This portal is the quickest and most direct way to apply for major benefits like SNAP, Medicaid, TANF, and Child Care Assistance.
The system allows users to create an account to perform several key actions:
Delaware 211: Your Direct Line to Community Resources
For those who need to speak with someone directly or are unsure which programs fit their needs, Delaware 211 is a free, confidential, and multilingual information and referral service. Residents can connect with specialists by dialing 2-1-1, texting their zip code to 898-211, or using the live chat feature online.
Referrals cover a vast range of health and human services, including:
State Service Centers: In-Person Help in Your County
For face-to-face assistance, Delaware operates 15 State Service Centers and four Social Services buildings across its three counties. These physical locations act as a front door to the state's support system, where staff can help residents access the services they need.
The centers are particularly vital for addressing immediate crises. They are the primary access point for anyone in need of emergency temporary housing and also offer on-site resources like community food closets.
Delaware offers several programs to combat food insecurity and ensure families have access to healthy, nutritious meals. The two cornerstones of this effort are the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
A key feature of Delaware's system is the interconnection between its programs. Eligibility for benefits like TANF or Medicaid can often lead to automatic or streamlined qualification for food assistance, reducing the burden on applicants.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
What SNAP Provides
SNAP, also known as the Food Supplement Program, enables low-income families to purchase a variety of foods to support better nutrition. Benefits are distributed monthly on a Delaware Food First card, which is an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card that functions like a debit card at participating grocery stores.
Delaware also has a SNAP Online Purchasing Program. This allows recipients to use their EBT card to buy groceries online from authorized retailers.
Income Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify for SNAP, applicants must be Delaware residents and either U.S. citizens or eligible aliens. The primary factor is household income. For most households, the maximum gross monthly income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Individuals already receiving other forms of aid, such as TANF, General Assistance (GA), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), do not need to meet this specific income test to qualify for food benefits.
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income (200% FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,610 |
| 2 | $3,526 |
| 3 | $4,442 |
| 4 | $5,360 |
| 5 | $6,276 |
| 6 | $7,192 |
| 7 | $8,110 |
| 8 | $9,026 |
| For each additional person add | $918 |
How to Apply for SNAP Benefits
The application process is designed to be accessible and thorough.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
WIC Services and Support
WIC is a federally funded program that provides supplemental nutritious foods, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support. It serves low-income pregnant, breastfeeding, and non-breastfeeding postpartum women, as well as infants and children up to age five who are at nutritional risk.
Income Guidelines and Eligibility
To qualify for WIC, an applicant must reside in Delaware, have a "nutritional risk" determined by a health professional, and meet income guidelines. The gross income limit for WIC is 185% of the FPL.
Families already receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF are considered automatically income-eligible for WIC, which can simplify the application process.
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Gross Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,413 |
| 2 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $4,957 |
| 5 | $5,805 |
| 6 | $6,653 |
| 7 | $7,501 |
| 8 | $8,349 |
| For each additional person add | $848 |
Steps to Apply for WIC
The application process for WIC begins with a phone call to schedule an appointment where staff will help determine eligibility.
Additional Food Resources
Beyond SNAP and WIC, other food resources are available. All State Service Centers operate food closets for those in immediate need, and the Food Bank of Delaware coordinates a network of food pantries. Delaware also offers various school nutrition programs to ensure children have access to meals.
Delaware provides a range of housing-related assistance programs. Emergency needs are typically handled by social service agencies, while long-term support, including rental vouchers and homeownership loans, is managed by the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA).
Help with Energy and Utility Costs
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP is a federally funded program that provides financial assistance to eligible low-income households to help manage home heating and cooling costs. The program offers a one-time benefit for regular energy bills and provides crisis assistance for emergencies, such as a utility shut-off notice.
Eligibility and Application for LIHEAP
Both homeowners and renters who meet federal income guidelines (60% of the State Median Income) can apply. In Delaware, LIHEAP is administered by Catholic Charities. To apply, residents should contact the office in their county:
The program operates seasonally. Heating assistance applications are accepted from October through April, while cooling assistance is available from May through August. Crisis assistance is available year-round.
Rental Assistance and Subsidized Housing
Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
Run by DSHA in Kent and Sussex Counties, the Housing Choice Voucher Program provides rental assistance to eligible low-income families, allowing them to rent privately-owned housing. To qualify, a household's gross income generally cannot exceed 80% of the area median income. Preference is given to working families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.
State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP) and Other Vouchers
Delaware also operates the State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP), which provides vouchers to low-income households referred by DHSS or DSCYF. This program often serves individuals who require supportive services to live independently. Additionally, the Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA) program offers support for extremely low-income individuals with disabilities.
Applying for Rental Programs
To streamline the application process, Delaware uses a centralized portal at Delaware.AffordableHousing.com. Applicants can submit a single pre-application for multiple open waiting lists. Due to high demand, applicants are typically placed on a waiting list. For assistance, call 855-301-5920.
Emergency Shelter and Housing Solutions
For individuals and families experiencing homelessness or an immediate housing crisis, temporary housing is available through a network of emergency shelters. The most direct way to access these services is by visiting the nearest State Service Center.
Homeownership Assistance through DSHA
Loan Programs for First-Time and Repeat Homebuyers
DSHA helps make homeownership more affordable by offering 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage loans with competitive interest rates. The "Welcome Home" program is for first-time homebuyers, while the "Home Again" program serves repeat buyers and others.
Down Payment and Closing Cost Support
DSHA also provides assistance with down payments and closing costs. Programs like the First State Home Loan offer a percentage of the final loan amount to help cover these upfront expenses, making homeownership more attainable.
Delaware provides direct financial aid through two primary programs: Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the state-funded General Assistance (GA) program. The GA program serves as a safety net for individuals who do not meet the criteria for federal programs.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Understanding TANF Support
TANF is Delaware's main cash assistance program for low-income families with minor children, also known as "A Better Chance" (ABC). Its goal is to provide temporary financial help while promoting job preparation and long-term self-sufficiency. The program is built on mutual responsibility, where the state provides aid and the family participates in work-readiness activities.
Financial Eligibility for TANF
To qualify, a family must meet financial criteria and include a child under age 18 (or an 18-year-old expected to graduate high school before turning 19, or a woman in her ninth month of pregnancy). Both income and resources are considered.
| Family Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income | Applicant Maximum Net Monthly Income | Recipient Maximum Net Monthly Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,811 | $201 | $979 |
| 2 | $2,446 | $270 | $1,322 |
| 3 | $3,082 | $338 | $1,666 |
| 4 | $3,719 | $407 | $2,010 |
| 5 | $4,355 | $475 | $2,354 |
| 6 | $4,989 | $544 | $2,697 |
The TANF Application Process
Families can apply for TANF benefits online through the Delaware ASSIST portal. Applications can also be made by contacting the Division of Social Services directly.
General Assistance (GA)
Who Qualifies for General Assistance
General Assistance provides cash assistance to low-income individuals who are not eligible for federal programs like TANF or SSI. An individual may qualify if they meet income and resource limits and fit one of the following criteria:
How to Seek General Assistance
A Division of Social Services (DSS) Case Manager determines qualification after a review of the situation. Applications should be submitted through DSS.
Delaware ensures access to healthcare for its low-income residents through Medicaid and the Delaware Healthy Children Program (CHIP). The state uses a tiered eligibility system based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), with different income thresholds for specific groups.
Delaware Medicaid
Services Covered by Medicaid
Delaware Medicaid provides comprehensive medical assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families. Covered services typically include doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, mental health services, and dental care for children.
Income and Asset Limits for Eligibility
Medicaid eligibility is primarily determined by a household's income relative to the FPL. Delaware expanded Medicaid to cover adults under age 65 with incomes up to 138% of the FPL.
| Category | Income Limit (% of FPL) | Max Monthly Income (Household of 3) |
|---|---|---|
| Adults (Age 19-64) | 138% | $3,064 |
| Pregnant Women | 217% | $4,819 |
| Children (Age 0-1) | 217% | $4,819 |
| Children (Age 1-5) | 147% | $3,264 |
| Children (Age 6-18) | 138% | $3,064 |
Delaware Healthy Children Program (CHIP)
Low-Cost Health Insurance for Children
The Delaware Healthy Children Program (CHIP) provides low-cost, high-quality health insurance for uninsured children in families who earn too much for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. The program covers a comprehensive range of services, including check-ups, immunizations, prescriptions, and dental and vision care.
Income Guidelines and Premiums
Families eligible for CHIP pay a single monthly premium of either $15 or $25, which covers all eligible children in the household and is determined by income.
| Family Size | Monthly Income for $15 Premium | Monthly Income for $25 Premium |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1,416 – $1,743 | $1,744 – $2,099 |
| 2 | $1,910 – $2,350 | $2,351 – $2,831 |
| 3 | $2,403 – $2,957 | $2,958 – $3,562 |
| 4 | $2,896 – $3,564 | $2,896 – $3,564 |
| 5 | $3,390 – $4,172 | $4,173 – $5,025 |
Applying for State Health Coverage
The application process for both Medicaid and CHIP is unified. The primary method is online through the Delaware ASSIST portal at assist.dhss.delaware.gov. Applicants can also get help by phone at 1-866-843-7212 or by visiting a local DSS office.
Delaware's Purchase of Care (POC) program is the primary state-run subsidy designed to make child care more affordable for low- to moderate-income families. This helps ensure that parents can maintain employment or attend training programs.
Purchase of Care (POC) Program
How POC Helps with Child Care Costs
The POC program provides financial support to eligible families to help cover the cost of child care for children under age 13 (or older for children with special needs). This assistance enables parents to work, attend training, or meet special needs. Families can choose their own state-licensed child care provider.
Income Eligibility and Co-Payment Details
Eligibility is determined by the Division of Social Services based on a family's income and need. A family's gross monthly income must be at or below 200% of the FPL. Families typically contribute to the cost through a monthly co-payment, calculated on a sliding scale. This co-payment may be waived for families with income below 150% of the FPL.
| Family Size | Max Gross Monthly Income (200% FPL) | Waived Copayment (Income ≤ 150% FPL) |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | $3,408 | $2,556 |
| 3 | $4,304 | $3,228 |
| 4 | $5,200 | $3,900 |
| 5 | $6,098 | $4,574 |
| 6 | $6,994 | $5,246 |
Applying for Child Care Support
Families can get more information about program rules and apply by contacting a local DSS office. Applications are often submitted through the Delaware ASSIST portal.
The Delaware Department of Labor's Division of Employment and Training offers a suite of services for job seekers. The state's model begins with a universal online entry point and guides individuals through assessment and planning to connect them with training and employment opportunities.
Delaware Job Link: Your Career Resource Hub
Delaware Job Link (joblink.delaware.gov) is the state's central online career network. It serves as a comprehensive resource for both job seekers and employers, providing access to job openings, training programs, and career development tools.
Support for Unemployed Residents
The Dislocated Worker Program
This program is designed to assist individuals who have been laid off. It provides funding for training, education, and employment services to help these workers re-enter the workforce. The program also works with employers to provide early intervention services in the event of mass layoffs.
Accessing Training Services
Accessing funds for training is a structured process that can take at least four weeks. To be considered for training assistance, an individual must complete these mandatory steps:
Specialized Training and Youth Employment
State Summer Youth Employment Program
This program provides meaningful summer work experiences for youth between the ages of 14 and 20. It is designed to give young people exposure to the working world and help them develop foundational job skills. Interested youth must apply through designated Summer Youth Provider organizations, not directly with the Department of Labor.
Vocational and Skills Training Opportunities
Various partner organizations offer specialized job training.
The primary online portal is Delaware ASSIST. This consolidated platform allows residents to screen for eligibility and apply for multiple services at once, including SNAP (food benefits), Medicaid, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), streamlining access to crucial state financial aid and support.
For immediate housing crises, contact Delaware 2-1-1 or the Delaware State Housing Authority. Delaware assistance programs like the Emergency Solutions Grant can provide support for preventing eviction or securing temporary shelter, connecting you with local agencies for rapid re-housing resources and potential financial aid.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is the main Delaware assistance program for utility costs. It provides financial aid to eligible low-income households for heating fuel, electricity bills, and energy crisis situations. Applications are typically managed through designated community action agencies across the state.
Eligibility for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Delaware primarily depends on household income, size, and resources. This key program helps low-income individuals and families purchase groceries. You can check specific eligibility requirements and apply for this food assistance through the Delaware ASSIST portal.
The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program offers direct cash assistance to qualifying low-income families with dependent children. This Delaware assistance program provides short-term financial support while helping parents find employment and achieve self-sufficiency through work requirements and support services.
Delaware provides comprehensive health coverage for eligible low-income adults, children, and people with disabilities through Delaware Medicaid. This program covers services like doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions. Eligibility is generally based on Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) and household size.
The Delaware Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is the central point of contact for seniors. It connects older adults with various Delaware assistance programs, including in-home care, meal delivery services (Meals on Wheels), transportation, and information on Medicare and prescription assistance plans.
Yes, the Purchase of Care (POC) program is a Delaware assistance program that helps eligible low-income families pay for childcare. Subsidies are provided directly to licensed childcare providers, making it more affordable for parents to work, attend school, or participate in approved job training activities.
No, income limits vary significantly among different Delaware assistance programs. Each service, such as LIHEAP, SNAP, or Medicaid, has unique eligibility criteria based on federal poverty levels, household size, and other factors. Always check the specific guidelines for each program you apply for.
Yes, the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) offers relief for water and wastewater bills. This specific Delaware assistance program can provide a benefit to eligible low-income households to help manage costs and prevent service disconnection, complementing other utility aid like LIHEAP.
West Virginia's hardship programs offer a crucial lifeline, providing financial relief to residents facing unexpected crises. These programs, which include assistance for housing, utilities, and other emergency needs, are designed to stabilize households and help individuals get back on their feet.
Financial hardship can happen to anyone, but in Tennessee, a network of state and local programs offers a lifeline to those struggling with essential costs. From assistance with housing and utilities to food and healthcare, these resources are designed to help residents achieve stability and get back on their feet.
Wondering if you can use your EBT card for a Frosty or Baconator at Wendy's? While typically not allowed for fast food, specific state programs and individual eligibility create exceptions, meaning some Wendy's locations can accept EBT under the right conditions.