Local Housing Assistance Programs in Delaware: What You Need to Know

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

State Housing Assistance Programs

Delaware Housing Assistance Program (DEHAP)

Launched in March 2021, DEHAP provides emergency rental assistance to individuals and families facing financial hardships due to the pandemic. The program covers up to 15 months of rent and utility arrears. Eligibility is limited to renters with incomes at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for their county. Applications can be submitted through the DEHAP portal at decovidhousinghelp.com. (smyrna.delaware.gov)

Housing Stability Program (HSP)

Administered by the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA), HSP aims to prevent evictions by offering emergency rental assistance to households facing court-ordered evictions. The program also provides support for security deposits and initial rent payments to facilitate new housing opportunities. To be eligible, applicants must have incomes at or below 80% of the AMI for their county. For more information, visit the DSHA website. (news.delaware.gov)

Delaware Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (DEMAP)

DEMAP offers loans to homeowners who are 90 days or more delinquent on their mortgage payments due to involuntary loss of income. The program assists with monthly mortgage payments for up to 24 months or $30,000, whichever comes first. Eligible properties must be the primary residence and located in Delaware. For assistance, contact Delaware 211 or visit their website. (delaware211.org)

Local Housing Resources and Contacts

Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA)

DSHA is the primary state agency responsible for housing programs in Delaware. They offer various resources, including rental assistance and homeownership programs. For more information, visit the DSHA website.

First State Community Action Agency

This agency provides a range of services, including rental assistance, homebuyer counseling, and home maintenance programs. They operate statewide and can be contacted through their website. (firststatecaa.org)

Local Public Housing Authorities

Several local housing authorities manage public housing and Housing Choice Voucher programs:

New Castle County Housing Authority: Website
Wilmington Housing Authority: Website
Newark Housing Authority: Website
Milford Housing Development Corporation: Website

Housing Laws and Regulations in Delaware

Source-of-Income Protections

Effective January 1, 2026, Delaware law prohibits landlords from discriminating against tenants based on their source of income, including housing vouchers and government assistance programs. This legislation aims to protect vulnerable populations from housing discrimination. (nlihc.org)

Housing Needs Assessment

The 2023 Housing Needs Assessment Report highlights that 50% of renters in Delaware are cost-burdened, with 25,000 severely cost-burdened—paying more than 50% of their income in rent. The report emphasizes the need for additional funding and policy changes to address housing shortages and affordability issues. (news.delaware.gov)

Demographics and Population Data

As of 2023, approximately 23,270 people in Delaware, or about 2.0% of the state’s population, reside in subsidized housing. The average household size in these units is 2.3 people. Notably, 37% of households in subsidized housing have one or more children under 18 years, and 79% are headed by women. (usafacts.org)

Geographic and Regional Context

Delaware is the second smallest state in the U.S., bordered by Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Its housing programs are designed to address both urban and rural needs, with resources available statewide. The state’s housing policies aim to promote affordable housing development and prevent homelessness across all regions.

Comparisons with National Averages

Delaware’s housing challenges mirror national trends, with a significant portion of renters being cost-burdened. However, the state’s proactive measures, such as the introduction of source-of-income protections and targeted assistance programs, demonstrate a commitment to addressing these issues.

Conclusion

Delaware offers a comprehensive array of housing assistance programs to support residents in achieving and maintaining affordable housing. By understanding the available resources and eligibility criteria, Delawareans can access the support they need to secure stable housing.

Comprehensive Guide to Local Housing Assistance Programs in Delaware