An Overview of Delaware’s Housing Assistance Programs

Delaware offers a range of housing assistance programs designed to support residents in securing and maintaining affordable housing. These initiatives cater to various needs, from emergency rental assistance to homeownership support.

Housing Assistance Programs in Delaware

Emergency Rental Assistance

The Delaware Housing Assistance Program (DEHAP) provides financial support to renters facing eviction. In 2024, DEHAP partnered with the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League to deliver emergency housing assistance, engaging over 500 community members and preventing eviction for 57 clients. (mwul.org)

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Income: At or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the county of residence.
  • Eviction Status: Facing imminent eviction with a court-scheduled hearing.

    • Application Process:

  • Contact Local Housing Authorities: Reach out to your county’s housing authority for application details.
  • Provide Documentation: Submit proof of income and eviction notice.
  • Await Approval: Applications are reviewed, and assistance is granted based on availability.

    • Local Resources:

  • New Castle County Housing Authority

    • – Address: 77 Reads Way, New Castle, DE 19720
    – Phone: (302) 429-0800
    – Website: New Castle County Housing Authority

  • Kent County Housing Authority

    • – Address: 3911 N. Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901
    – Phone: (302) 678-9400
    – Website: Kent County Housing Authority

  • Sussex County Housing Authority

    • – Address: 21911 Beauchamp Branch Rd, Georgetown, DE 19947
    – Phone: (302) 855-7777
    – Website: Sussex County Housing Authority

    Homeownership Assistance

    The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) offers programs to assist first-time and repeat homebuyers. In 2024, DSHA launched the “Home Sweet Home” program, providing a zero-interest forgivable second loan of $12,000 for down payment and closing cost assistance. (news.delaware.gov)

    Eligibility Criteria:

  • Income: Varies by county; for example, in New Castle County, a four-person household must have an income at or below $91,750.
  • Property Price: Home purchase price must not exceed $285,000.

    • Application Process:

  • Attend a Homebuyer Education Course: Offered by DSHA-approved providers.
  • Apply Online: Submit an application through the DSHA website.
  • Provide Documentation: Include proof of income, employment, and credit history.

    • Local Resources:

  • Delaware State Housing Authority

    • – Address: 18 The Green, Dover, DE 19901
    – Phone: (302) 739-4263
    – Website: Delaware State Housing Authority

    Housing Stability Program

    The Housing Stability Program (HSP), sponsored by DSHA, aims to prevent evictions and secure new housing opportunities. In August 2024, DSHA awarded over $5 million in HSP grants to eight community partner organizations statewide. (news.delaware.gov)

    Eligibility Criteria:

  • Income: At or below 80% of AMI for the county of residence.
  • Eviction Status: Facing imminent eviction with a court-scheduled hearing.

    • Application Process:

  • Contact HSP Organizations: Find a participating organization in your area.
  • Provide Documentation: Submit proof of income and eviction notice.
  • Await Approval: Assistance is granted based on availability.

    • Local Resources:

  • First State Community Action Agency

    • – Address: 308 N. Railroad Ave, Georgetown, DE 19947
    – Phone: (302) 856-7761
    – Website: First State Community Action Agency

    Fair Housing and Legal Assistance

    The Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI) offers free assistance to individuals facing housing discrimination or unsafe living conditions. In 2024, CLASI handled 1,300 cases, assisting 2,872 people, including 1,307 children. (declasi.org)

    Services Offered:

  • Housing Discrimination: Assistance for victims of discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and more.
  • Unsafe Living Conditions: Support for tenants facing issues like mold, lead, or structural problems.

    • Contact Information:

  • Community Legal Aid Society, Inc.

    • – Address: 100 W. 10th St, Suite 801, Wilmington, DE 19801
    – Phone: (302) 575-0660
    – Website: Community Legal Aid Society, Inc.

    Demographics and Housing Needs in Delaware

    As of 2023, approximately 23,270 people, or about 2.0% of Delaware’s population, lived in subsidized housing. (usafacts.org) The average wait time for subsidized housing in Delaware is 46 months, significantly higher than the national average of 27 months. (usafacts.org)

    County Breakdown:

  • New Castle County: 2.9% of the population in subsidized housing.
  • Kent County: 2.2% of the population in subsidized housing.
  • Sussex County: 0.9% of the population in subsidized housing.

Conclusion

Delaware’s housing assistance programs provide essential support to residents facing housing challenges. By understanding the available programs and their eligibility criteria, individuals and families can access the resources needed to secure and maintain stable housing.

For more information or to apply for assistance, contact the local housing authority in your county or visit the Delaware State Housing Authority’s website.