Delaware Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers [2025 Edition]

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is a practical, no‑fluff playbook built for single moms in Delaware. It focuses on help from community nonprofits, churches, and charities—not federal or state benefit programs. Every section starts with the most important step first, includes real eligibility details, realistic timelines, required documents, and a Plan B if things don’t work the first time. Sources are official Delaware nonprofits, well‑established charities, or state pages that point you to those nonprofits.

Quick Help Box (read this first)

• Call or text Delaware 211 for a live referral to nearby charities: Dial 211, text your ZIP to 898‑211 (Mon–Fri 8am–9pm, Sat 9am–5pm). You’ll get screened and connected to rent, utilities, food, shelter, diapers, legal aid, and more. Delaware 211 – contact options. (delaware211.org)
• If you need a bed tonight: Call Housing Alliance Delaware Centralized Intake at 1‑833‑FIND‑BED (1‑833‑346‑3233) (Mon–Fri 8am–5pm) or ask a shelter/day center to help you call. Immediate Shelter & Intake info. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Domestic violence help, 24/7: New Castle 302‑762‑6110; Kent/Sussex 302‑422‑8058 (bilingual line 302‑745‑9874). Safe shelter, legal help, and safety planning. Delaware DV hotline numbers (DVCC). (dvcc.delaware.gov)
• Emergency food today: Food Bank of Delaware Healthy Pantry Centers (Newark & Milford) by appointment; you can visit once per month. Newark: (302) 722‑6476; Milford: see hours below. Healthy Pantry Center – hours/what to bring. (fbd.org)
• Women/children emergency shelter in Wilmington: Sunday Breakfast Mission; call (877) 306‑HOME for overnight guest intake. Free dinner served nightly at 5:45 pm; monthly food boxes by appointment for the first 60 callers. SBM Overnight Shelter & Meals; Food Box rules. (sundaybreakfastmission.org, delaware211.org)

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How this guide beats typical “lists” you see online

Most top search results just list agency names and phone numbers. They rarely tell you the actual dollar help available, how to apply, or what documents to bring. This guide fills those gaps with verified amounts, intake steps, and timelines from Delaware 211, leading charities, and program pages you can click and use right now. (delaware211.org, fbd.org)

Emergency Help (same‑day or next‑day)

Start here if you’re in crisis. These are nonprofit and church programs that can act fast.

1) Shelter, Safety, and Immediate Beds

• If you’re unhoused or about to be: Call 1‑833‑FIND‑BED for Centralized Intake to see all open beds statewide (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm). They can also route you via Delaware 211 after hours. Immediate Shelter – DHSS. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Domestic violence shelters and hotlines: 24/7. New Castle 302‑762‑6110 (CHILD, Inc.); Kent/Sussex 302‑422‑8058 (People’s Place SAFE). Bilingual line 302‑745‑9874. DVCC hotline list; CHILD, Inc. domestic violence services. (dvcc.delaware.gov, childinc.com)
• Women & children shelter (Wilmington): Sunday Breakfast Mission (SBM) operates separate shelters for men and for women with kids. Call (877) 306‑HOME to start intake. They provided 59,102 nights of shelter and 283,763 meals in a recent year; community dinners served nightly at 5:45 pm. SBM main site & Overnight Guest page; Evening community meal details. (sundaybreakfastmission.org, delawareadrc.com)
• Kent County family/women shelter: The Shepherd Place (Dover) — emergency shelter for women and families; call (302) 678‑1909 24/7. Shepherd Place – official site. (shepherdplace.org)
• Catholic Charities shelters:
  • Bayard House (Wilmington) — licensed residential maternity home for at‑risk pregnant and newly parenting teens/women; capacity up to 14; 24/7; pregnancy hotline 877‑225‑7870. Bayard House. (ccwilm.org)
  • Casa San Francisco (Milton) — 30‑day emergency shelter for single adults, ~12 beds. Casa San Francisco contact. (ccwilm.org)
• Ministry of Caring (Wilmington) — emergency shelters for women & families:
  • Mary Mother of Hope House II (women with children): 24 beds across 9 rooms; typical stay 30–45 days. Phone (302) 652‑1935.
  • Mary Mother of Hope House III (families): 16 beds across 6 rooms; (302) 652‑0970.
  • Samaritan Housing (short‑term apartments for women & children): (302) 428‑3653 (up to 28 days). Emergency Shelters – Ministry of Caring. (ministryofcaring.org)

What to bring to shelter check‑in (if safe to do so): ID, any proof of Delaware residency, meds, kid’s school info, and a phone charger. If fleeing abuse, call the DV hotline first; addresses are confidential.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a day center to help advocate. Friendship House Empowerment Centers (Wilmington 302‑652‑8033, Newark 302‑544‑0165, Middletown — see 211 listing) can help with documents, mail, bus passes, ID fees, and emergency funds. Friendship House – 211 listings. (delaware211.org)

2) Food Today

• Food Bank of Delaware Healthy Pantry Centers (choice shopping, monthly visits):
  • Newark, 222 Lake Dr — Appt line (302) 722‑6476; Mon–Wed 9–3:30, Thu 9–5:30, Fri curbside 9–11:30, 2nd Sat 9–12:30; bring proof of DE residency.
    HPC Newark – hours/appointments. (fbd.org)
  • Milford, 102 Delaware Veterans Blvd — Mon–Thu 9–3:30, Tue 9–5:30, Fri box pick‑up 9–11:30, 1st Sat 9–12:30. HPC Milford. (fbd.org)
• Ministry of Caring – Emmanuel Dining Room (Wilmington/New Castle): average 550 meals daily served at no cost; see locations/hours. Emmanuel Dining Room. (ministryofcaring.org)
• Sunday Breakfast Mission community dinner: daily at 5:45 pm (doors 4:45 pm). Evening meal details. (delawareadrc.com)
• St. Patrick’s Center (Wilmington East Side): free breakfast 9:00–10:30 am and grocery distribution weekdays 9:00 am–1:00 pm (approx. three days of food). Address: 107 E 14th St; phone 302‑652‑6219. St. Patrick’s programs & hours. (stpatrickscenter.org)
• Hope Dining Room (Newark): hot midday meal Mon–Fri 12–1 pm at Kingswood UMC, 300 Marrows Rd. Hope Dining Room – details. (delawareadrc.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the Food Bank’s community pantry directory to find churches/open hours near you. Food Bank – Community Food Pantries. (fbd.org)

3) Rent, Mortgage, and Utilities (non‑government charity help)

Charity funds change often and are limited. Call early in the week and have documents ready.

• Catholic Charities Basic Needs — one‑time grants for rent/mortgage/utility arrears, plus case management & budgeting. Offices in all 3 counties (Wilmington 302‑655‑9624; Dover 302‑674‑1600; Georgetown 302‑856‑9578). Documents required and intake forms are linked on their page. Amounts vary by funding; if approved, the payment goes directly to landlord/utility. Basic Needs program & application docs. (ccwilm.org)
• Lutheran Community Services (New Castle County) — limited grants for back rent, utilities, or security deposits; first‑come, documents required. LCS aims to respond within 2 business days after your online intake. Phone 302‑654‑8886. LCS Housing Stability & “What to Expect”. (lcsde.org)
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul (parish‑based). Example: St. Mary of the Assumption conference notes typical help up to $350 one time per year when funds allow. Your local parish amount may differ. SVDP example listing with amount. (delaware211.org)
• Salvation Army Delaware Command (family services in each county) — emergency help for rent, utilities, food pantry; hours vary by location (e.g., Sussex County family services Mon–Thu 9am–2pm). Call your local Corps (Wilmington, Dover, Seaford). Salvation Army Delaware – schedule/services. (pa.salvationarmy.org)
• Community Resource Center (Rehoboth) — emergency assistance to stop evictions and shutoffs, plus auto repairs/meds; open Mon–Fri 10am–4pm. Address 37510 Oyster House Rd; phone (302) 227‑1340. CRC reports providing $400,000–$500,000+/year in emergency aid. CRC services & contact; CRC services overview. (rehobothcommunitycenter.org)
• Neighborhood House (Wilmington & Middletown) — rent, mortgage, electric, and prescription assistance; food closet. Middletown office (302) 378‑7217; Wilmington (302) 658‑5404. Neighborhood House – program listing / 211. (delaware211.org)
• Family Promise (families only):
  • Northern New Castle County — Diversion & shelter; phone 302‑998‑2222; diversion aims to house families within 7–14 days. Family Promise NNCC – What We Do. (familypromisede.org)
  • Southern Delaware — Prevention help with back rent, deposits & utilities, as funds allow; phone 302‑278‑0020. Family Promise Southern Delaware. (familypromisesouthernde.org)

Required documents (typical): photo ID; lease or mortgage statement; ledger showing balance; utility bill/shutoff; income proof (last 30 days); proof of emergency (court notice, loss of hours, medical bill). Catholic Charities and CRC list these specifically. Catholic Charities Basic Needs – documents link on page; CRC required items; CRC “what to bring” list. (ccwilm.org, rehobothcommunitycenter.org)

Timelines: LCS targets a response within two business days; Food Bank pantry appointments are typically same week; rent/utility funds depend on availability and complete paperwork. LCS What to Expect; Food Bank appointment info. (lcsde.org, fbd.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 and ask for “another church‑based fund near me” (SVDP at other parishes, Salvation Army, local church outreach ministries). Also ask Family Promise about “diversion” if you have children. (delaware211.org, familypromisede.org)

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Tables: At‑a‑glance help you can use today

Table 1 — Emergency hotlines and same‑day contacts

Table 2 — Food resources you can access quickly

Table 3 — Rent/utility assistance (charities)

Table 4 — Diapers, baby supplies, and maternity support

Table 5 — Shelters & family housing (faith‑based/nonprofits)

Table 6 — Low‑cost after‑school care and youth programs

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Major Community & Faith Organizations Single Moms Use Most

Below are the programs single mothers tell us actually move the needle—rent paid, lights on, groceries in the kitchen, safe beds, diapers.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Wilmington (statewide)

Most important action: Call your county office to schedule a Basic Needs intake. Be ready with your bills and proof of income.

• What they offer: One‑time rent/mortgage/utility payments (vendor‑paid), food assistance, diaper bank, thrift, budgeting & job readiness, and two shelters (Bayard House; Casa San Francisco). Catholic Charities Basic Needs. (ccwilm.org)
• Eligibility: Documented crisis and willingness to complete interview/financial assessment. Basic Needs page. (ccwilm.org)
• Dollars/limits: Amounts vary by funding and county. Payments go directly to the landlord or utility (no cash to clients). Program description. (ccwilm.org)
• Where to apply/contacts:
  • New Castle (Wilmington): 302‑655‑9624, 2601 W 4th St
  • Kent (Dover): 302‑674‑1600, 2099 S DuPont Hwy
  • Sussex (Georgetown): 302‑856‑9578, 404 S Bedford St, Ste 9
  • Bayard House (Diaper Bank/Maternity): 302‑654‑1184
  • Casa San Francisco (Milton): 302‑684‑8694
    Catholic Charities contact page. (ccwilm.org)

Required documents (bring to first appointment): Photo ID; SSNs for household; proof of residency; proof of income; lease/mortgage; bill/shut‑off/eviction notice. Catholic Charities Basic Needs – document list link on page. (ccwilm.org)

Reality check & timeline: Appointment availability fluctuates with funding cycles; follow up if you don’t hear back within 2–3 business days. For pregnancy or infant needs, Bayard House services and Diaper Bank are often faster to access. Bayard House. (ccwilm.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 and ask for nearby church‑based SVDP conferences or Salvation Army sites with active utility/rent funds this week. (delaware211.org)

Lutheran Community Services (New Castle County)

Most important action: Submit the online Assistance Application and answer your phone. LCS aims to respond within 2 business days.

• What they offer: Small grants for rent/utility/security deposits when funds are available; case management; multiple food pantries. LCS Housing Stability. (lcsde.org)
• Timeline: Target two business days to respond after intake. (lcsde.org)
• Contact: 302‑654‑8886, 2809 Baynard Blvd, Wilmington. LCS main page. (lcsde.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask LCS to refer you to SVDP parishes or Neighborhood House for emergency funds; or try Family Promise if you have children and need deposit help fast. (delaware211.org, familypromisede.org)

Society of St. Vincent de Paul (parish help near you)

Most important action: Call the SVDP conference closest to you and leave a clear voicemail (name, town, need, best callback time).

• What they offer: Short‑term help with rent, utilities, deposits, or essentials; home visits; grocery/gift cards (varies). Example: St. Mary of the Assumption conference lists up to $350 once per year as a general guideline (exceptions possible). SVDP example with amounts. (delaware211.org)
• Reality check: Each parish has its own fund and limits. If one can’t help this week, ask them to recommend another nearby conference or partner church. (delaware211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Salvation Army family services for the county you live in and ask about current rent/utility funds. (pa.salvationarmy.org)

Salvation Army (Wilmington, Dover, Seaford)

Most important action: Call your local Corps during Family Services hours and ask about “emergency rent/utility assistance” and required documents.

• What they offer: Food pantries, emergency assistance for rent & utilities (when funds exist). Sussex County Family Services hours noted as Mon–Thu 9am–2pm; state office lists pantry and program hours as well. Delaware Command – schedule/services. (pa.salvationarmy.org)
• Shelter note: The Booth Social Service Center in Wilmington historically housed a family shelter; call your local Corps for current availability. Salvation Army history in DE. (pa.salvationarmy.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a written referral and try Neighborhood House (Middletown/Wilmington), LCS, or SVDP for a combined pledge. (delaware211.org)

United Way of Delaware / Delaware 211

Most important action: Dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898‑211. Ask the specialist for “nonprofit rent & utility help near me this week” and “a food option today.”

• Why it matters: 211 routes you to 2,200+ programs and can search by funds available, hours, and location; service is free, confidential, and multilingual. About 211 & hours. (delaware211.org)
• Stand By Me (free financial coaching) is also through United Way — call 211 or 1‑800‑560‑3372 to connect. Stand By Me contact. (standbymede.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to be texted or emailed a curated list with eligibility/phone numbers and request a warm transfer to the first nonprofit.

Friendship House (New Castle County)

Most important action: Walk into an Empowerment Center early morning for help with documents, mail services, bus passes for medical, transportation to appointments, help getting IDs/birth certificates, and small emergency funds.

• What they offer: Empowerment Centers in Wilmington, Newark, and Middletown; free Clothing Bank via referral; women’s transitional housing; school uniform initiative; financial assistance up to $200 in some cases; seasonal Code Purple/Winter Sanctuary partnerships. Friendship House – program snapshots. (guidestar.org)
• Contacts: Wilmington Empowerment Center 302‑652‑8033 (720 N Orange St), Newark 302‑544‑0165 (62 E Delaware Ave). 211 listings. (delaware211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a staff member for a same‑day referral to St. Patrick’s Center for shower/laundry vouchers or breakfast/groceries. (stpatrickscenter.org)

Community Resource Center (Rehoboth)

Most important action: Bring ID, income proof, and bills to CRC between 10am–4pm (Mon–Fri). They triage same‑day for evictions, shutoffs, meds, and car repairs.

• What they offer: Emergency rent/utility help; baby pantry; food rescue; day center with showers/laundry in winter. CRC reports $400,000–$500,000+ per year in emergency assistance to keep families housed. CRC services; contact/hours. (rehobothcommunitycenter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call First State Community Action Agency (another nonprofit) and Delaware 211 for additional Sussex assistance. (delaware211.org)

Ministry of Caring (Wilmington/New Castle)

Most important action: If you’re a mom with kids and need shelter, call the House II/III numbers first. For meals, go directly to Emmanuel Dining Rooms during serving hours.

• What they offer: Emergency shelters for women, families, single men; daily meals at Emmanuel Dining Rooms (avg 550 per day); childcare, dental clinic, and housing programs. Ministry of Caring services; EDR program. (ministryofcaring.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a referral to Family Promise (families) or to Housing Alliance Delaware intake number (for any open beds). (familypromisede.org, dhss.delaware.gov)

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Baby, Kids, and School‑Year Support (beyond food & housing)

• Diapers & baby supplies: See Table 4. Bayard House Diaper Bank (NDBN affiliate) distributes to qualifying households with children up to age 3, up to six times per year. Program note with frequency. (cdow.org)
• School uniforms & clothing: Friendship House Clothing Bank works via referrals and partners with many schools; call the Friendship House helpline 302‑482‑2271 if your school doesn’t have a uniform closet. Friendship House partner info via Trinity Episcopal’s outreach page. (trinityoldswedes.church)
• After‑school programs: Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware accept Purchase of Care and offer low membership fees (often $15/year\ast \ast ).SampleweeklyfeesforCapeHenlopenschools:Before\ast \ast$80–$122\ast \ast ,After\ast \ast$90–$122\ast \ast ,Combo\ast \ast$100–$122 (varies by location). Check your local Club. BGC DE childcare; site examples. (bgclubs.org, capehenlopenschools.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school social worker about a local church‑run uniform closet or backpack program and call 211 for kids’ clothing pantries. (delaware211.org)

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Transportation, Documents, and Workarounds

• Document help (IDs/birth certificates/mail): Friendship House Empowerment Centers provide mailing address use, computer/phone access, help getting ID documents, and small transportation assistance. Wilmington 302‑652‑8033; Newark 302‑544‑0165. 211 listing. (delaware211.org)
• Legal help to stop an illegal lockout or handle DV/landlord issues: Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI) — Wilmington 302‑575‑0660; Dover 302‑674‑8500; Georgetown 302‑856‑0038. CLASI contact. (declasi.org)
• DV legal advocacy (PFAs): CHILD, Inc. advocates in all three counties; call court advocacy numbers on their site; DV hotline 302‑762‑6110. CHILD, Inc. DV services. (childinc.com)

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Real‑world examples (scenarios)

• Example 1 (Sussex): You’re two weeks from eviction in Georgetown. Walk into Community Resource Center with ID, ledger, and court papers. If CRC can’t cover the full amount, ask them to coordinate a pledge with SVDP/Catholic Charities so multiple charities each pay part. Then ask for their Baby Pantry dates and an HPC food appointment to stabilize groceries. (rehobothcommunitycenter.org, cdow.org, fbd.org)
• Example 2 (Wilmington): Your PECO/DPL bill is about to shut off. Call LCS and Salvation Army first thing Monday, email your bill and pay stubs, and ask for a vendor pledge. If funds are out, request a referral to SVDP. Meanwhile, schedule a Healthy Pantry appointment so your cash can go to utilities. (lcsde.org, pa.salvationarmy.org, delaware211.org, fbd.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting until the eviction hearing or shutoff date. Most charities require a current bill with a due date, not an account already in collections.
• Not answering unknown numbers. Case managers often call from blocked or unfamiliar numbers; check voicemail and call back fast.
• Sending photos instead of PDFs. Scan or photograph clearly; include the full page (name, account number, amount due).
• Applying to multiple funds with mismatched stories. Keep your explanation consistent and honest—caseworkers talk.
• Missing documents. Always bring: ID, SSN cards (or numbers), lease, ledger, bills, 30 days of income, and proof of crisis (court/shutoff letter). CRC & Catholic Charities docs / Catholic Charities Basic Needs. (rehobothcommunitycenter.org, ccwilm.org)

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Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Photo ID for you (and any adult in the household)
• SSNs for all household members (cards if possible)
• Proof of Delaware address (lease or current mail/utility bill)
• Lease and payment ledger (or mortgage statement)
• Bills with account numbers and due dates (utility, water, etc.)
• Eviction court notice or utility shutoff notice (if applicable)
• Last 30 days of pay stubs or benefits statements; if no income, a written statement of support
• Childcare invoices (if applying for help that involves childcare costs)
• Any prior pledge letters or denial letters from other agencies

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Reality checks, warnings, and tips

• Charity dollars are limited and often first‑come, first‑served at the start of the week or month.
• You may need to piece together help: one pledge from SVDP (up to $350 example), a smaller pledge from a church, and part from Catholic Charities. Keep all pledge letters together. (delaware211.org)
• For food, appointments fill fast. If the Food Bank’s Newark slots are full, try Milford (if closer), or use a partner pantry in your ZIP while you wait. (fbd.org)
• If you’re pregnant or parenting a newborn and homeless, Bayard House has specialized beds and supports for moms and babies—call 302‑654‑1184 or the 24‑hr pregnancy hotline 877‑225‑7870. (ccwilm.org)

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Diverse Communities: Finding the right door

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: JFS Delaware provides inclusive counseling on a sliding scale and accepts Medicaid/Medicare. Wilmington 302‑478‑9411; Lewes 302‑478‑9411 (Sussex office in Lewes). JFS Delaware – FAQ & locations. (jfsdelaware.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: CLASI’s Disabilities Law Program (via Disability Rights Delaware) and general housing practice can advise on reasonable accommodations or discrimination. CLASI contact. (declasi.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask 211 for veteran‑serving nonprofits with emergency funds and case management; many coordinate with Family Promise and local churches for rapid stabilization. Delaware 211. (delaware211.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: LACC (Wilmington) offers case management, a food closet, and language‑accessible services. Main line 302‑655‑7338, 403 N Van Buren St. LACC contact. (thelatincenter.org)
• Rural Sussex/Kent moms: Community Resource Center (Rehoboth) handles rent/utility crises and baby needs; Code Purple Kent County runs food/clothing hours and seasonal shelters; call 800‑733‑6816 or visit 1207 E Division St, Dover. CRC; Code Purple Kent – pantry hours & contacts. (rehobothcommunitycenter.org, codepurpledelaware.com)
• Single fathers: The same nonprofits above serve dads with kids—Family Promise, Salvation Army, Ministry of Caring (House III), and 211 referrals all include two‑parent or single‑dad families. Family Promise NNCC; Ministry of Caring family shelters. (familypromisede.org, ministryofcaring.org)
• Language access: Delaware 211 provides multilingual assistance by phone/text/chat; ask to be connected to programs with Spanish interpretation if needed. Delaware 211. (delaware211.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Rent/Utilities this week (nonprofit): Catholic Charities (302‑655‑9624 NCC; 302‑674‑1600 Kent; 302‑856‑9578 Sussex). LCS (302‑654‑8886) in NCC. SVDP via your local parish (example cap $350 once/year). Salvation Army local Corps. CRC (302‑227‑1340) in Sussex. (ccwilm.org, lcsde.org, delaware211.org, pa.salvationarmy.org, rehobothcommunitycenter.org)
• Shelter tonight: 1‑833‑FIND‑BED (Centralized Intake). DV shelters 24/7: 302‑762‑6110 (NCC) or 302‑422‑8058 (Kent/Sussex). (dhss.delaware.gov, dvcc.delaware.gov)
• Food today: Food Bank HPC appts (302) 722‑6476 (Newark) / Milford hours; St. Patrick’s breakfast/groceries; SBM dinner 5:45 pm; Hope Dining Room lunch 12–1 pm. (fbd.org, stpatrickscenter.org, delawareadrc.com)
• Diapers: Bayard House Diaper Bank 302‑654‑1184 (NDBN affiliate); CRC Baby Pantry dates (Sussex). (ccwilm.org, rehobothcommunitycenter.org)

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FAQs (Delaware‑specific)

1. Can charities pay my full rent balance?
   Often no—funds are limited. Many cases are covered by multiple pledges (e.g., SVDP up to $350 + a smaller church pledge + Catholic Charities vendor payment). Ask each agency to email a pledge letter. (delaware211.org, ccwilm.org)
2. How fast can I get help?
   LCS targets 2 business days to review intakes; CRC sees clients same‑day during open hours; Salvation Army/SVDP vary by volunteer schedules; Food Bank pantry visits are by appointment (usually this week). (lcsde.org, rehobothcommunitycenter.org, fbd.org)
3. Do I need income to get help?
   Most programs require income proof (even if $0) and documentation of your crisis (court/shutoff). Catholic Charities requires an interview and financial assessment. (ccwilm.org)
4. I’m fleeing domestic violence—where can we go with kids?
   Call 302‑762‑6110 (NCC) or 302‑422‑8058 (Kent/Sussex) for confidential DV shelters and safety planning. If not DV‑related, call 1‑833‑FIND‑BED for other available shelter options. (dvcc.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
5. Where can I get a free hot meal daily?
   Emmanuel Dining Room (avg 550 meals/day) and Sunday Breakfast Mission dinner 5:45 pm. Newark’s Hope Dining Room serves lunch Mon–Fri. (ministryofcaring.org, delawareadrc.com)
6. Who helps with diapers and baby items?
   Bayard House Diaper Bank (up to six distributions/year for under age 3) and CRC Baby Pantry dates in Sussex. (cdow.org, rehobothcommunitycenter.org)
7. Is there help for deposits if I find a new place?
   Ask LCS (security deposits in NCC when funds available), Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, and Family Promise (families) about deposit help; CRC may assist in Sussex. (lcsde.org, pa.salvationarmy.org, ccwilm.org, familypromisede.org)
8. I need clothing/work clothes.
   Friendship House Clothing Bank provides free clothing by referral and partners with 250+ churches/groups. Call 302‑482‑2271 for requests. (delaware211.org)
9. Who can help with legal issues like eviction or a PFA?
   CLASI provides free civil legal help to eligible residents; DV legal advocacy available through CHILD, Inc. (PFAs). (declasi.org, childinc.com)
10. How do I find programs near me without calling everywhere?
    Dial 211 or text ZIP to 898‑211 to chat with a specialist who can send you a curated list for your ZIP in minutes. (delaware211.org)

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Resources by Region (with how to contact)

New Castle County

• Catholic Charities Wilmington — 302‑655‑9624, 2601 W 4th St. Basic Needs program. (ccwilm.org)
• LCS — 302‑654‑8886, 2809 Baynard Blvd. Housing Stability. (lcsde.org)
• Ministry of Caring shelters & Emmanuel Dining Rooms. Emergency shelters. (ministryofcaring.org)
• Friendship House Empowerment Centers — Wilmington 302‑652‑8033; Newark 302‑544‑0165. 211 listing. (delaware211.org)
• Food Bank HPC Newark — (302) 722‑6476, appointments. HPC Newark. (fbd.org)
• Hope Dining Room — 300 Marrows Rd, Newark; lunch Mon–Fri. ADRC listing. (delawareadrc.com)
• Neighborhood House (Wilmington) — 302‑658‑5404; Middletown 302‑378‑7217. 211 listing. (delaware211.org)

Kent County

• Shepherd Place (Dover) — 302‑678‑1909. Official site. (shepherdplace.org)
• Salvation Army Dover Corps — Family Services; see Delaware Command schedule. Program schedule. (pa.salvationarmy.org)
• Code Purple Kent County — pantry hours & contacts, 800‑733‑6816, 1207 E Division St, Dover. Food & clothing pantry. (codepurpledelaware.com)
• Catholic Charities Dover — 302‑674‑1600. Contact page. (ccwilm.org)

Sussex County

• Community Resource Center (Rehoboth) — (302) 227‑1340, 37510 Oyster House Rd. CRC contact/hours. (rehobothcommunitycenter.org)
• Catholic Charities Georgetown — 302‑856‑9578. Contact page. (ccwilm.org)
• Casa San Francisco (Milton) — 302‑684‑8694 (30‑day adult shelter). Contact page. (ccwilm.org)
• Food Bank HPC Milford — see hours above. HPC Milford. (fbd.org)
• Family Promise of Southern Delaware — 302‑278‑0020. FPSDE contact. (familypromisesouthernde.org)

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What to do if a charity says “funds are exhausted”

• Ask when funds typically refresh (new month, after a grant, or after a fundraiser).
• Request a written landlord/utility pledge if they can promise part of the bill later—some landlords will pause filings for a confirmed pledge.
• Call 211 and ask for a “warm transfer” to another active nonprofit today.
• For food, use a church pantry from the Food Bank’s partner list while you wait for an HPC appointment. (fbd.org)

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Resource List (clickable, with phone & address)

• Catholic Charities Basic Needs — rent/utility help, food, diaper bank; statewide offices. Catholic Charities Basic Needs | 302‑655‑9624 (NCC), 302‑674‑1600 (Kent), 302‑856‑9578 (Sussex) | 2601 W 4th St, Wilmington; 2099 S DuPont Hwy, Dover; 404 S Bedford St Ste 9, Georgetown. (ccwilm.org)
• Bayard House (Catholic Charities) — maternity shelter & diaper bank. Bayard House | 302‑654‑1184 | 300 Bayard Ave, Wilmington. (ccwilm.org)
• Casa San Francisco (Catholic Charities) — 30‑day shelter for single adults; food programs. Casa San Francisco | 302‑684‑8694 | 127 Broad St, Milton. (ccwilm.org)
• Lutheran Community Services — rent/utility/deposits (limited), food pantries. LCS Housing Stability | 302‑654‑8886 | 2809 Baynard Blvd, Wilmington. (lcsde.org)
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul (example: St. Mary of the Assumption) — emergency help up to $350 one time/yr (varies). SVDP example & amount | Parish line varies; St. Mary’s office 302‑475‑6486 (ext 3) | 7200 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin (parish office). (delaware211.org, chcparish.org)
• Salvation Army Delaware Command — family services, pantry, emergency assistance. Salvation Army Delaware – programs & schedule | Local Corps: Wilmington, Dover, Seaford (see site). (pa.salvationarmy.org)
• United Way of Delaware / Delaware 211 — central helpline (phone/text/chat). Delaware 211 – Get Help | 211 / 1‑800‑560‑3372 | 625 N Orange St, Wilmington (UWDE office). (delaware211.org)
• Sunday Breakfast Mission — women & children shelter; nightly dinners; food boxes by appointment. SBM Overnight Guest | (877) 306‑HOME (4663) | 110 N Poplar St, Wilmington. (sundaybreakfastmission.org)
• The Shepherd Place — family & women’s shelter. Shepherd Place | 302‑678‑1909 | 1362 S Governor Ave, Dover. (shepherdplace.org)
• Ministry of Caring – Emergency Shelters & Emmanuel Dining Rooms. Emergency Shelters | (302) 652‑1935 (House II), (302) 652‑0970 (House III) | Various sites, Wilmington/New Castle. (ministryofcaring.org)
• St. Patrick’s Center — breakfast, groceries, clothing, case management. St. Patrick’s Programs | 302‑652‑6219 | 107 E 14th St, Wilmington. (stpatrickscenter.org)
• Food Bank of Delaware — Healthy Pantry Centers (Newark & Milford). Healthy Pantry Center | Newark appt (302) 722‑6476 | 222 Lake Dr, Newark; 102 Delaware Veterans Blvd, Milford. (fbd.org)
• Community Resource Center (Rehoboth) — emergency assistance, baby pantry, food rescue. CRC Services | (302) 227‑1340 | 37510 Oyster House Rd, Rehoboth Beach. (rehobothcommunitycenter.org)
• Family Promise of Northern New Castle County — family diversion/shelter/stabilization. Family Promise NNCC | 302‑998‑2222 | 2104 St. James Church Rd, Wilmington. (familypromisede.org)
• Family Promise of Southern Delaware — homelessness prevention for families. FPSDE | 302‑278‑0020 | PO Box 439, Nassau/Lewes. (familypromisesouthernde.org)
• Friendship House Empowerment Centers & Clothing Bank. FH Wilmington EC – 211 | 302‑652‑8033 (Wilmington EC); Clothing Bank 302‑654‑1390, 1603 Jessup St, Wilmington. (delaware211.org)
• CLASI — free civil legal aid. CLASI contact | Wilmington 302‑575‑0660; Dover 302‑674‑8500; Georgetown 302‑856‑0038. (declasi.org)
• CHILD, Inc. — DV hotline 302‑762‑6110, DV shelters & advocacy. CHILD, Inc. DV services. (childinc.com)
• People’s Place (SAFE Program – Kent/Sussex DV) — 24/7 hotline 302‑422‑8058; bilingual 302‑745‑9874. People’s Place contacts. (peoplesplace2.com)
• Hope Dining Room (Newark) — hot lunch Mon–Fri. Hope Dining Room (ADRC) | 300 Marrows Rd, Newark. (delawareadrc.com)
• LACC — food closet & family supports. LACC contact | 302‑655‑7338 | 403 N Van Buren St, Wilmington. (thelatincenter.org)
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware — after‑school care (POC accepted). BGC Before & After Care | Fees vary by site; see local club info. (bgclubs.org)

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Plan B options for every section

• If charity funds are depleted: Ask for a letter confirming you are “approved pending funds.” Some landlords and utilities will hold action if they see that in writing.
• For ongoing food: Combine one Food Bank HPC visit/month with weekly church pantries listed on the Food Bank community directory. (fbd.org)
• For documents: Use Friendship House for mail and ID help so you don’t miss callbacks or lose pledges. (delaware211.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Delaware nonprofits and established organizations such as Catholic Charities, Lutheran Community Services, Food Bank of Delaware, Ministry of Caring, Family Promise, Sunday Breakfast Mission, Community Resource Center, Delaware 211, and others cited throughout. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only primary or well‑established sources, maintained on a regular review cycle.

• Our editorial methodology includes primary source verification, link testing at publication, archiving, and change‑tracking, aligned with Google’s E‑E‑A‑T and YMYL expectations. ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy. (lcsde.org)

Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.

Disclaimer

• Program rules, amounts, hours, and contacts can change quickly. Always verify with the organization before you go. We link directly to official pages to help you confirm.
• This guide does not provide legal advice, medical advice, or guarantee of results. For emergencies, call 911. For DV safety, use the 24/7 hotlines listed above.
• Security note: If you’re on a shared device or worry about someone reading your history, clear your browser history and use a safe device when emailing or texting agencies. We work to keep our website safe, but your device and network are outside our control; use caution on public Wi‑Fi.
• Feedback/corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org. We respond to correction requests within 48 hours, and urgent updates within 24 hours, per our Editorial Standards. Editorial Standards. (lcsde.org)

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By focusing on real amounts, steps, and contacts, this guide is meant to be a hub you can act on today—no fluff, just the pathways that work in Delaware’s community and faith network.

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🏛️More Delaware Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Delaware

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• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
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• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
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• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery