Comprehensive Guide to Delaware’s Housing Assistance Programs

Delaware offers a range of housing assistance programs designed to support residents in achieving and maintaining stable housing. This guide provides an overview of these programs, eligibility criteria, and resources available to Delawareans.

Delaware’s Housing Assistance Programs

1. Delaware Housing Assistance Program (DEHAP)

Overview:

DEHAP is Delaware’s emergency rental assistance program aimed at helping renters facing financial hardships, particularly those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. (smyrna.delaware.gov)

Eligibility:

  • Income: Households with incomes at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for their county.
  • Hardship: Applicants must demonstrate financial hardship due to the pandemic.

    • Assistance Offered:

  • Rental and Utility Payments: Up to 15 months of assistance for rent and utilities, including water, wastewater, gas, and electric bills.

    • Application Process:

  • Online Application: Visit DEHAP’s application portal to apply.
  • Required Documents: Prepare your most recent utility bill and proof of income.
  • Assistance: For help with the application process, call the DEHAP Helpline at 1-866-935-0407.

    • 2. Housing Stability Program (HSP)

    Overview:

    HSP, sponsored by the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA), aims to prevent evictions and support households in securing new housing opportunities. (news.delaware.gov)

    Eligibility:

  • Income: Households with incomes at or below 80% of the AMI for their county.
  • Eviction Risk: Applicants must have a court-scheduled eviction hearing.

    • Assistance Offered:

  • Emergency Rental Assistance: Financial support to prevent eviction.
  • New Housing Opportunities: Assistance with security deposits and initial rent payments.

    • Application Process:

  • Online Application: Apply through the DSHA website.
  • Contact: For questions, email HSP@Delaware.gov or call 211.

    • 3. Homeownership Programs

    Overview:

    DSHA offers several programs to assist first-time and repeat homebuyers in Delaware. (news.delaware.gov)

    Programs Include:

  • Welcome Home: For first-time homebuyers who have not owned a home in the past three years.
  • Home Again: For repeat homebuyers or those who do not qualify for Welcome Home.

    • Assistance Offered:

  • Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance: Programs like Home Sweet Home and Delaware Diamonds provide zero-interest, forgivable loans for down payments and closing costs.

    • Application Process:

  • Contact DSHA: Visit the DSHA website for program details and application forms.
  • Eligibility: Review eligibility criteria on the website or contact DSHA directly.

    • 4. Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher Programs

    Overview:

    These federal programs, administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs), provide rental assistance to low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. (hud.gov)

    Eligibility:

  • Income: Varies by PHA and household size.
  • Citizenship: U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status.

    • Application Process:

  • Contact Local PHAs: Each PHA manages its own application process.
  • Find Local PHAs: Use the HUD Resource Locator to identify PHAs in your area.

    • Local Resources and Contact Information

    Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA):

  • Main Office: 18 The Green, Dover, DE 19901
  • Phone: (302) 739-4263
  • Email: dsha_contactdsha@delaware.gov

    • New Castle County Housing Authority:

  • Address: 77 Read’s Way, New Castle, DE 19720
  • Phone: (302) 395-5625
  • Email: assunta.lucy@newcastlede.gov

    • Wilmington Housing Authority:

  • Address: 400 N. Walnut Street, Wilmington, DE 19801
  • Phone: (302) 429-0800
  • Email: info@wha.org

    • YWCA Delaware:

  • Address: 100 W. 10th Street, Wilmington, DE 19801
  • Phone: (302) 658-7110
  • Email: info@ywcade.org

    • Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League:

  • Address: 100 W. 10th Street, Suite 100, Wilmington, DE 19801
  • Phone: (302) 655-0803
  • Email: info@mwul.org

Demographics and Population Data

Delaware’s population is approximately 1 million residents, with a median household income of $70,000. The state has a diverse population, with significant urban areas in Wilmington and Dover, and rural communities in Sussex County. Understanding these demographics is crucial when assessing housing needs and program eligibility.

Delaware vs. National Benchmarks

Delaware’s median household income of $70,000 is slightly above the national median of $68,700. However, housing affordability remains a challenge, with a higher percentage of income spent on housing compared to the national average. State programs like DEHAP and HSP aim to address these challenges by providing targeted assistance to those in need.

Conclusion

Delaware offers a comprehensive suite of housing assistance programs to support residents in achieving and maintaining stable housing. By understanding the eligibility criteria and application processes, Delawareans can access the resources available to them. For personalized assistance, contact the local housing authorities or community organizations listed above.