Last updated: November 6, 2026
Bottom line
Delaware housing help depends on what is happening now. For shelter, call or text Housing Alliance Delaware’s Centralized Intake at 1-833-346-3233. You can also call 2-1-1 or text your ZIP code to 898-211 through Delaware 211. For an eviction case or a voucher loss, use Delaware eviction help as soon as you get a notice.
For longer-term help, Delaware’s statewide waiting list is open as of October 12, 2026. Use the Affordable Housing Hub to apply and manage your information. A place on a waiting list does not mean you will get housing soon, so keep searching for rentals and other help at the same time.
This page is for single mothers, single parents, pregnant mothers, caregivers, and low-income families. You can also use the main Delaware help guide for food, health care, child care, and cash assistance.
If you need help today
Immediate danger: Call 911. If violence or stalking is part of the housing crisis, an advocate can help you discuss safer choices. Calls or online activity may be seen on a shared or monitored device.
No safe place to sleep: Call or text 1-833-346-3233, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Outside those hours, call 2-1-1 or text your ZIP code to 898-211. Delaware uses Centralized Intake for most family shelter and homeless housing referrals.
Emergency motel help: Delaware’s emergency housing page says motel vouchers are short-term, depend on funding and shelter capacity, and have a $1,200 yearly cap per person. A voucher is not automatic. A State Service Center may help with screening.
Danger at home: Use a safer phone or device if you can. Delaware’s domestic violence shelters can be reached at 302-762-6110 in New Castle County, 302-422-8058 in Kent and Sussex Counties, or 302-745-9874 for Abriendo Puertas. The national hotline is 800-799-7233, and you can text START to 88788.
Eviction papers: Do not miss the court date. Ask for legal help right away and keep every notice. Our Delaware legal help page lists other civil legal resources.
What has changed
Eviction rule: Since September 1, 2026, some Delaware tenants facing eviction only for unpaid rent may use the new right of redemption if the full amount owed is paid before eviction. Important limits apply. Check the Delaware court guidance and ask legal aid about your case.
Energy help: The 2026–27 heating season runs October 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027. Catholic Charities began taking applications August 1, 2026. Use the current heating application for this season.
HSP closure date corrected: The Delaware Housing Stability Program stopped accepting new applications on May 7, 2025, not 2026. Older materials may give the wrong year.
Where to start
Start with the problem that needs action first. A family sleeping in a car needs a different path from a family looking for a lower-cost apartment.
I have nowhere to stay
Contact Centralized Intake. Tell them where you slept last night, who is with you, whether anyone is pregnant, and whether you are leaving violence or another danger.
I may be evicted
Read the court papers, note the hearing date, and contact legal aid. Delaware’s eviction diversion program gives landlords and tenants a way to discuss a possible agreement before the hearing.
I need lower rent
Apply through the statewide hub, then search income-restricted rentals. The Section 8 guide explains vouchers, public housing, and waiting lists.
Other bills are hurting rent
Check food, child care, health, and utility help. Lowering another bill may make it easier to keep up with rent while you wait for housing assistance.
For broader housing basics, use the national housing assistance guide. For immediate Delaware programs, keep the Delaware emergency guide nearby.
Why housing help is tight in Delaware
The 2023 statewide housing study found that about half of Delaware renter households spent at least 30% of their income on housing. It also found great strain for low-income renters in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex Counties. This is a 2023 finding, not a live rent or vacancy count.
Quick housing help table
| Your need | First step | What it may provide | Reality check |
|---|---|---|---|
| No place to sleep | Centralized Intake or 211 | Shelter screening, motel screening, or homeless program referral | A bed or voucher may not be available the same day. |
| Eviction case | Legal Help Link | Legal screening, advice, or possible representation | Help depends on your case, income, time, and staff capacity. |
| Long-term rent help | Affordable Housing Hub | Applications for open voucher and public housing lists | A waiting-list spot is not an approval or move-in date. |
| Lower-cost apartment | DelawareHousingSearch | Market-rate, subsidized, and income-restricted listings | You must contact each property about openings and rules. |
| Energy crisis | DEAP or LIHEAP | Heating, cooling, crisis, or weatherization help | Funding is limited and may not cover the full bill. |
| Unsafe owner-occupied home | Repair program screening | Possible help with urgent health or safety repairs | Income, ownership, location, and repair rules apply. |
Shelter, motel, and homeless housing help
Housing Alliance Delaware runs Centralized Intake, the main referral path for many emergency shelter and homeless housing programs. You can call or text 1-833-346-3233 or email intake@housingalliancede.org. Tell the screener where you stayed, when you must leave, whether children are with you, and how they can reach you.
A Delaware State Service Center can help you contact Centralized Intake and ask about motel vouchers. Motel help is meant for a short emergency. Staff may check that shelter beds are full first. Funding and rooms can limit aid, and Delaware’s state program has a $1,200 yearly cap per person for motel help. Ask the center which rules apply to your household.
Helpful detail
Use clear words when you call. Say if you are sleeping outside, in a car, in a shelter, in a place not meant for housing, or with someone who has told you to leave. Do not say only that you are “having housing problems.”
If you need food or supplies during a housing crisis, ask the state about SNAP food benefits and see Delaware WIC help. Pregnant mothers and families with young children may qualify for added support, but these programs do not provide housing by themselves.
Eviction and emergency rent help
If a landlord files an eviction case, act quickly. Delaware requires landlords in residential eviction cases to take part in the court’s diversion process after filing. This may include online talks or mediation. It does not cancel the court case, so keep following every court notice.
The Eviction Defense Project may connect eligible tenants facing eviction or voucher loss with free legal help. Give the intake worker your hearing date, case number, landlord’s name, rent amount, and copies of all papers.
New 2026 rule: right of redemption
Since September 1, 2026, eligible tenants in a Delaware court case based only on unpaid rent may be able to stop the eviction by paying all rent due under the lease and any court-awarded costs and fees before the eviction is carried out. A friend, nonprofit, or other person may pay for the tenant. Partial payment alone does not qualify unless it adds up to the full amount owed.
This rule has limits, including prior nonpayment judgments. If the writ of possession has already been posted, extra court steps may be needed to stop the eviction. The rule does not cover cases based on other alleged lease violations. The new law also changed the usual unpaid-rent demand notice from five days to at least seven days. Do not skip a hearing, assume you qualify, or rely on payment alone without checking the court process. Ask Delaware Legal Help Link or a lawyer for help with the landlord-tenant court process.
Housing Stability Program closed
Delaware’s Housing Stability Program (HSP) is not accepting new applications. The official HSP notice says the portal closed May 7, 2025, as its federal funding was running out. The notice said older pending applications would be processed while funds remained. Do not send a new application to an old HSP link.
Ask a State Service Center about emergency cash assistance for rent, utilities, or shelter during an unexpected crisis. Approval is not guaranteed. The office may look at income, household details, the cause of the emergency, available funds, and whether one-time help can solve the immediate problem.
Do not withhold rent, change locks, or leave a court hearing based only on general online advice. This article is not legal advice. If the home has serious repair problems, contact legal aid before taking a step that could affect your tenancy.
Section 8, public housing, and waiting lists
Delaware’s five public housing authorities use one statewide platform for many Housing Choice Voucher and public housing applications. The participating agencies are the Delaware State Housing Authority, Dover Housing Authority, New Castle County Housing Authority, Newark Housing Authority, and Wilmington Housing Authority.
As of October 12, 2026, the statewide waiting list is open. The hub’s application instructions explain how to create an account, submit applications, and use a paper option. Special programs, project-based units, and referral-only programs may have different rules.
A voucher helps an eligible household rent from a private landlord that meets program rules. Public housing is tied to a housing authority property. Project-based assistance stays with a certain apartment. Income-restricted tax-credit apartments may have lower rents, but the tenant usually pays the full listed rent.
The housing authority checks final eligibility when your name reaches the top. Rules may include income, family size, identity, immigration status for federal help, background checks allowed by the program, and local preferences. Use the documents checklist below before you apply.
Keep your application active
Use the hub’s update page whenever your address, phone, email, income, family size, disability needs, or housing authority choices change. Save screenshots or confirmation emails. Never pay someone for a voucher or a better waiting-list place.
The hub’s 2026 update cycle had a February 10, 2026 response deadline for certain applicants who had not updated in over a year. If you were removed for not replying, the waiting-list updates page explains how to seek reinstatement of the original application date. Reinstatement is reviewed, not automatic. The hub also suggests reviewing your application at least once a year. If you need an accessible or paper application, ask for an accommodation or call the hub partner at 855-301-5920.
Affordable apartments and rental search
Do not wait for a voucher before looking for apartments. DelawareHousingSearch.org is a free state housing search tool. You can search by county, city, ZIP code, rent, accessibility needs, and other details. For search help, call 1-877-428-8844, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The HUD Delaware page also links to public housing agencies, housing counselors, tax-credit properties, rural rentals, and other official tools.
When you call a property, ask four things: Is the waitlist open? What is the rent? What income range is required? What fees and documents are needed? Also ask whether the property accepts vouchers if you have one.
Utility bill and weatherization help
Utility help can lower the risk of losing housing. Delaware uses the Delaware Energy Assistance Program, funded through LIHEAP, for heating, cooling, crisis, and related help. The state utility page says income is generally capped at 60% of Delaware’s State Median Income. It also warns that the program may not pay the full bill.
For 2026–27, heating assistance covers October 1 through March 31. Catholic Charities began taking applications on August 1, 2026. Its energy assistance guide lists online and office options, county contacts, and required papers. First-time applicants and households with 10 or more members should ask the office about an intake appointment. Cooling and crisis help use different rules and dates; crisis assistance may be available year-round. Check the program before relying on the season dates next year.
Delaware’s weatherization program may provide no-cost insulation, air sealing, or related energy work for eligible renters and homeowners. The state uses a need-based waiting list and may not serve everyone in one year. Renters should ask about owner permission. Weatherization is not a general repair fund and usually does not replace windows or air conditioners. For help applying, call 302-504-6111.
For more bill help, use the Delaware utility guide. Child care, food, and medical help may also free up money for rent. Ask the state benefits office about child care help and Medicaid or CHIP.
Homeowner, repair, and rural housing help
Homeowners with an urgent health or safety repair can ask about Delaware’s Statewide Emergency Repair Program (SERP). The state repair program describes possible help with broken heating, dangerous wiring, plumbing, damaged roofs, and access ramps or grab bars. The home must be owner-occupied and other income, ownership, and repair rules apply. Milford Housing Development Corporation helps run the program. Call 302-491-4010 or 844-413-0038 to ask about current funding and screening.
USDA Rural Development’s rural repair program offers loans to very-low-income homeowners for repairs and grants to qualifying homeowners age 62 or older for health and safety hazards. The home must be in an eligible rural area.
For buying a home, the Delaware home loan page lists current mortgage and down-payment options. These are loans or deferred second mortgages, not free houses. Income, sales price, credit, lender, and property rules apply.
Regional starting points
The statewide hub can route applications to Delaware’s five housing authorities, but local services still vary. Use this table to choose a practical first call.
| Area | Housing contacts to check | Also ask about |
|---|---|---|
| New Castle County | New Castle County, Newark, or Wilmington housing authority listings | Voucher lists, eviction help, code issues, deposits, and accessible units |
| Wilmington | Wilmington Housing Authority, 211, legal aid, and city housing contacts | Public housing, shelter referrals, repair complaints, and local nonprofit help |
| Kent County | Delaware State Housing Authority, Dover Housing Authority, and State Service Centers | Vouchers, public housing, motel screening, LIHEAP, and rural options |
| Sussex County | Delaware State Housing Authority, State Service Centers, and rural housing programs | Transportation, rental search help, home repairs, and energy assistance |
The hub’s housing authority list shows the agencies and their contact information. For community agencies, food, clothing, and local referrals, see Delaware community support and Delaware transportation help.
Documents and information to gather
Do not wait to call for emergency help because one paper is missing. Ask what can be used instead. For longer applications, gather what you can from this list.
| Item | Why it may be needed | Helpful step |
|---|---|---|
| Photo ID | Confirms adult identity | Ask about other proof if ID is lost. |
| Household records | Shows who lives with you | Gather birth, school, custody, or benefit records. |
| Income proof | Shows program eligibility | Include work, benefits, child support, and no-income statements. |
| Lease and rent ledger | Shows rent, landlord, and balance | Ask the landlord for a written ledger. |
| Court papers | Shows the case and deadlines | Send clear copies to legal aid quickly. |
| Utility bills | Supports energy or shutoff help | Keep the newest bill and shutoff notice. |
| Contact history | Shows steps already taken | Save names, dates, emails, and confirmation numbers. |
What to do if help is denied, delayed, or closed
Ask for the decision in writing. Save the notice, envelope, emails, and screenshots. Look for an appeal, review, grievance, or fair-hearing deadline. A phone call alone may not protect your deadline.
If a housing authority removes you from a list or denies assistance, ask which rule was used and how to request a review. If your voucher or public housing is at risk, contact legal aid. If a DSS benefit is denied, reduced, delayed, or stopped, ask about a fair hearing.
If a fund is closed, ask when it may reopen and what other program handles the same need. Keep a note of every call, letter, upload, and decision so you can ask for the next step.
If you believe a landlord, lender, agent, or housing program treated you unfairly because of a protected trait, use Delaware’s housing complaint process. Housing complaints have deadlines, so do not wait for the problem to fix itself.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting for one program. Apply to more than one open list or property.
- Missing messages. Update your phone, email, and mailing address.
- Skipping court. An eviction case can move forward without you.
- Paying for a voucher. Housing authorities do not sell waiting-list spots.
- Trusting old rent-help pages. Confirm that a fund is open before gathering a full application.
- Sending original documents. Keep originals unless an official office clearly requires them.
Backup options while you wait
If you move into a unit but lack beds, a table, or basic items, check Delaware furniture help. Ask each group what it has now, who it serves, and whether pickup or delivery is possible. Stock and delivery help change often.
Housing assistance can take time. Use other benefits to protect the money you have for rent. Food help, WIC, child care assistance, health coverage, TANF, utility aid, and transportation help may lower other monthly costs.
Do not send bank passwords, gift cards, or fees to anyone offering a guaranteed apartment or voucher.
If violence is part of the housing crisis, speak with a trained advocate. The Delaware crisis hotlines can talk through safe options. Leaving home or entering a shelter is not always the safest choice, so ask about the risks for your situation.
Phone scripts
Calling Centralized Intake
“Hi, I am in Delaware with my child or children. We are staying at ____ and must leave by ____. Can you screen us for shelter, motel help, rapid rehousing, or other family housing? My safest callback number is ____.”
Calling legal aid
“Hi, I received an eviction or voucher notice. My court or deadline date is ____. Can I start a housing intake today? Which papers should I send first?”
Calling a housing authority
“Hi, I want to apply or check my application. Which lists are open for my household, and how do I update my phone, address, income, and family size?”
Calling about utility help
“Hi, I need help with my energy bill. Is heating, cooling, or crisis help open now? What income proof and bills do you need, and where should I apply?”
Resumen en español
Si no tiene un lugar seguro para dormir en Delaware, llame o mande un texto al 1-833-346-3233. También puede llamar al 2-1-1 o mandar su código postal al 898-211. Si recibió papeles de desalojo, no falte a la corte y pida ayuda legal de inmediato. Para solicitar vivienda pública o la lista de Section 8, use el portal estatal de vivienda y mantenga su información al día. Para ayuda con calefacción, aire acondicionado o facturas de energía, pregunte por DEAP o LIHEAP. La ayuda depende de los fondos, las reglas y los espacios disponibles.
Frequently asked questions
Is Delaware’s Housing Stability Program open?
No. The application portal closed May 7, 2025. New applications are not being accepted.
Is the Delaware Section 8 waiting list open?
Yes. As of October 12, 2026, the main hub lists participating Delaware housing authorities’ voucher and rental lists as open. Check the specific program before you apply because rules can change.
Can Delaware 211 give me a shelter bed?
Delaware 211 can connect you to Centralized Intake and other resources. A call does not guarantee that a bed, motel voucher, or housing slot is available.
Can I get housing help if I work?
Possibly. Programs look at household income, family size, location, program rules, and available funding. Working does not always make you ineligible.
What if my landlord will not make repairs?
Put repair requests in writing and keep copies. Contact legal aid before withholding rent or taking a step that may affect your tenancy.
What if I am removed from a housing list?
Ask for the reason in writing and request the appeal or review steps. Save notices and act before the stated deadline.
Can paying rent stop a Delaware eviction?
Sometimes. Since September 1, 2026, qualifying tenants in cases based only on unpaid rent may stop an eviction by paying all amounts owed before it happens. Limits and court steps apply. Ask legal aid to check your case, especially after a judgment or posted eviction notice.
About this guide
This guide uses official federal, state, local, and other high-trust nonprofit and community sources mentioned in the article.
A Single Mother is independent and is not a government agency, benefits office, lender, law firm, medical provider, or tax advisor.
Program rules, funding, local availability, and eligibility can change. Always confirm details with the official program before you apply or make decisions.
Verification: Last verified November 6, 2026, next review February 4, 2027.
Corrections: If you see something wrong or outdated, email suggestions@asinglemother.org.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It is not legal, financial, medical, tax, immigration, disability, safety, or government-agency advice.
Last updated: November 6, 2026 Next review: February 4, 2027