Introduction
Delaware offers a range of housing and urban development resources aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its residents. These initiatives encompass state programs, local services, and various forms of assistance designed to promote affordable housing, community development, and economic growth.
State Programs
Housing Development Fund – Affordable Rental Housing Program
The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) administers the Housing Development Fund to create and improve affordable rental housing across the state. In Fiscal Year 2025, the program received a state allocation of $6 million, with a recommended funding of $16 million for Fiscal Year 2026. (budget.delaware.gov)
Urban Redevelopment Initiatives
To stimulate economic activity and revitalization, Delaware has allocated funds for urban redevelopment. In Fiscal Year 2025, $5.5 million was requested for this initiative, with a recommended funding of $12.5 million for Fiscal Year 2026. (budget.delaware.gov)
Strong Neighborhoods Housing Fund
This fund supports housing development activities in distressed areas impacted by blight and crime. In Fiscal Year 2025, $4 million was allocated, with ongoing support in subsequent years. (budget.delaware.gov)
Downtown Development Districts (DDD) Rebate Program
The DDD Rebate Program incentivizes private investment in designated downtown areas. In December 2025, the DSHA announced the program’s opening for the 2026 funding round, offering approximately $3.5 million in rebate funding for large projects. (housingonline.com)
Local Services
Community Legal Aid Society, Inc.
This organization provides civil legal services to low-income individuals, including assistance with housing issues. Offices are located in:
- New Castle County: (302) 575-0660
- Kent County: (302) 674-8500
- Sussex County: (302) 856-0038
- Housing Development Fund Allocation: $6 million in Fiscal Year 2025, with a recommended $16 million for Fiscal Year 2026.
- Urban Redevelopment Funding: $5.5 million requested in Fiscal Year 2025, with a recommended $12.5 million for Fiscal Year 2026.
- Strong Neighborhoods Housing Fund: $4 million allocated in Fiscal Year 2025, with ongoing support in subsequent years.
- Delaware State Housing Authority, 2025 Budget Document: (budget.delaware.gov)
- Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League Housing Programs: (mwul.org)
- Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. Contact Information: (hud.gov)
- HUD Awards $50 Million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant to Wilmington: (archives.hud.gov)
- Community Benefit Programs – State of Delaware – Delaware State Housing Authority: (destatehousing.com)
- Delaware State Housing Authority Launches Four New Homeownership Programs: (ncsha.org)
- HUD Archives: HUD Awards $50 Million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant to Wilmington: (archives.hud.gov)
- Community Benefit Programs – State of Delaware – Delaware State Housing Authority: (destatehousing.com)
- Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) – State of Delaware – Delaware State Housing Authority: (destatehousing.com)
- How many subsidized housing units are available in Delaware?: (usafacts.org)
- Biden-Harris Administration Allocates $18.8 Million for Delaware’s Economic Growth Through Affordable Housing, Community Development, and Homeless Assistance: (witn22.org)
Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League (MWUL)
MWUL offers emergency rental assistance, housing resources, and support to prevent eviction and promote economic security. In 2024, they partnered with the DSHA to deliver emergency housing assistance through the Delaware Housing Assistance Program (DEHAP). (mwul.org)
Benefits & Assistance
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
Delaware receives annual CDBG allocations to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and expanding economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals. In 2023, the program helped over 62,000 families through housing activities and created or retained 25,500 jobs. (witn22.org)
Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC)
The LIHTC program encourages private investment in affordable housing. Delaware’s DSHA administers this program, offering tax credits to developers who create affordable rental housing. (destatehousing.com)
Government Agencies
Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA)
The DSHA is the primary state agency responsible for housing and urban development initiatives. They oversee programs like the Housing Development Fund, urban redevelopment, and the Strong Neighborhoods Housing Fund. (budget.delaware.gov)
Public Records
For detailed information on housing and urban development programs, funding allocations, and policies, refer to the DSHA’s official publications and budget documents available on their website.
Conclusion
Delaware’s commitment to housing and urban development is evident through its comprehensive programs and resources. Residents seeking assistance or information can access these services through the DSHA and local organizations dedicated to community development and support.