Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Delaware

Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in Delaware

Last updated: September 2025

Quick help box

Emergency or danger: Call 911 right now.
Child mental/behavioral health crisis (ages 0–17): Call 1-800-969-4357 (HELP) for Delaware’s Mobile Response & Stabilization Services, 24/7. You can also text/chat 988. (kids.delaware.gov)
Adult mental health crisis (for you or another adult in the home): Northern Delaware call 1-800-652-2929; Southern Delaware call 1-800-345-6785. (amerihealthcaritasde.com)
Domestic violence hotline: New Castle County 302-762-6110; Kent/Sussex 302-422-8058; bilingual line 302-745-9874. All are 24/7 and confidential. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Homelessness or need a shelter bed tonight: Call or text Housing Alliance Delaware Centralized Intake 1-833-FIND-BED (1-833-346-3233), Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (housingalliancede.org)
Find any local help (food, rent, utilities, child care, etc.): Call 211, text your ZIP to 898-211, or use Delaware 211 live chat (Mon–Fri 8 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m.). (delaware211.org)
Poison Control: Call 1-800-222-1222 (national).

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (save or screenshot)

Program	Who it helps	Key amounts	How to apply	Contact
Delaware Birth to Three (Early Intervention)	Birth–36 months with suspected delays/disabilities	Free evaluation; IFSP services based on need	Call regional intake	New Castle 302-283-7240; Kent/Sussex 302-424-7300; toll-free NCC 800-671-0050; Kent/Sussex 800-752-9393. (b23de.org, doe.k12.de.us)
Child Find (ages 3–5 and school-age)	Educational evaluation and special ed/IEP	Free; timelines set by state regs	Contact your school district Child Find office	District contact list and DOE Office of Early Learning 302-735-4295. (doe.k12.de.us)
Children’s Community Alternative Disability Program (Katie Beckett/TEFRA)	Medicaid for severely disabled children regardless of parent income	Child income ≤ 250% of SSI FBR = *$2, 417.50/ m o n t h * (2025); a sse t s \leq * $ 2,000*	Apply via DMMA Long-Term Care Medicaid Unit	DMMA info and contacts; NEMT rides through Modivcare 1-866-412-3778. (dhss.delaware.gov, ssa.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
Delaware Healthy Children Program (CHIP)	Uninsured kids under 19 with family income under state limit	Premium ** $10/$ 15/ $25 p er m o n t h p er f ami l y * *; man yser v i ces$ 0 copay	Apply online via ASSIST or by phone	Health Benefits Manager 1-800-996-9969. (dhss.delaware.gov)
SNAP (Food Supplement)	Low-income households (most up to 200% FPL)	Max monthly allotment, e.g., family of 3 *$768 ; f ami l yo f 4 $ 975* (Oct 2024–Sep 2025)	Apply via ASSIST; outreach help available	Food Bank SNAP Helpline 302-722-6470. (dhss.delaware.gov, fbd.org)
WIC	Pregnant/postpartum, infants, kids <5	Monthly fruit/veg benefit: child *$26 , p re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m $ 47, breastfeeding $52* (FY2025)	Call local WIC clinic; check income table	USDA WIC FY2025 bulletin; DE WIC income 7/1/2025–6/30/2026. (fns.usda.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)
Purchase of Care child care subsidy	Working/at-school parents; income ≤ 185% FPL (phase-out to 215%); ≤ 85% SMI during authorization	Copay waived ≤ 150% FPL; otherwise typically 7% of gross income up to 215% FPL	Apply via ASSIST or DSS office	DSS child care page. (dhss.delaware.gov)
DDDS Lifespan Waiver	Children with intellectual/developmental disabilities needing HCBS	Waiver approved through 06/30/2029	Apply online to DDDS Applicant Services	DDDS intake portal; CMS approval details. (medicaid.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
Transportation to medical care	Medicaid/CHIP-covered non-emergency rides	Book at least 3 business days in advance	Call the broker	Modivcare 1-866-412-3778 (status line 1-866-896-7211). (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
ADA Paratransit (DART)	Riders with disabilities	ADA fare *$4.00 * / t r i p; N o n - A D A d e man d res p o n se * $ 6.00*	Apply for eligibility; use DART Pass app	DART info: 1-800-652-DART; eligibility 1-800-553-3278 (Option 5). (dartfirststate.com)

Start here if you need help today

Call Delaware 211 for a warm handoff: Explain your situation and say you’re a single mom of a child with a disability. Ask for live transfer to Centralized Intake for shelter, WIC/SNAP navigators, or child care subsidy help. Dial 211 or text your ZIP to 898-211. (delaware211.org)
If you’re in crisis housing-wise: Call Centralized Intake 1-833-346-3233 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday–Friday. If they’re closed, leave a message, call early the next morning, and also call 211 to log your need. Shelters fill fast; expect call-backs through the day when beds open. (housingalliancede.org)
If you think your child needs therapies now: Call Birth to Three (B23) today—New Castle 302-283-7240; Kent/Sussex 302-424-7300. Say you want an evaluation for early intervention. For age 3+, call your district Child Find office. (b23de.org, doe.k12.de.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If lines are busy or you’re not getting a call-back, use multiple channels—211 chat, email intake@housingalliancede.org, and visit a State Service Center to ask staff to call for you. Keep notes (dates/times, who you spoke with). If you face barriers due to language or disability, say you need an interpreter or accommodation. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Healthcare and in-home supports

Medicaid pathways for children with significant disabilities

Most important action: If your child’s needs are high and your income is above typical Medicaid limits, apply for Delaware’s Medicaid option for disabled children living at home—the Children’s Community Alternative Disability Program (often called “Katie Beckett/TEFRA”). The program ignores parent income, but the child must meet disability and a “nursing facility level of care” and have gross income at or below 250% of the SSI Federal Benefit Rate with assets ≤ $2, 000 * * . T h e 2025 SS I in d i v i d u a lFBR i s * *$ 967/month, so the child’s limit is $2,417.50/month. Apply through the DMMA Long-Term Care Medicaid Unit. (dhss.delaware.gov, ssa.gov)
What it covers: Full Medicaid for the child (therapies, equipment, private duty nursing if authorized, home health, EPSDT “medically necessary” services for under-21s). Ask your care team about Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care (PPEC) and Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT). NEMT rides are scheduled via Modivcare at 1-866-412-3778—book at least 3 business days ahead. (dhss.delaware.gov)
How to apply: Start via the state’s online ASSIST portal or call the Medicaid Health Benefits Manager at 1-800-996-9969 to ask for the Long-Term Care Medicaid Unit that handles disabled children. If you’re more comfortable in person, ask your hospital social worker or a DDDS Community Navigator to make a warm referral. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your child is denied, request the denial in writing and file an appeal by the deadline on the notice. Bring help—call Disability Rights Delaware (Protection & Advocacy) at New Castle 302-575-0690, Kent 302-674-8500, or Sussex 302-856-0038. They can advise on appeals, education, and access rights. (declasi.org)

CHIP for kids who don’t qualify for Medicaid

Most important action: If your child isn’t Medicaid-eligible, check the Delaware Healthy Children Program (DHCP). Uninsured kids under 19 with family income up to the state’s limit (listed by FPL; agency FAQs reference 212% FPL) can enroll for $10,$ 15, or $25 per month per family—one flat premium covers all children in the home. Call 1-800-996-9969 or apply via ASSIST. Benefits include therapies, mental health, dental, vision, and more. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
Transportation to appointments: Medicaid and DHCP members can schedule rides through Modivcare at 1-866-412-3778 (ride status 1-866-896-7211). Book at least 3 business days ahead; have your member ID and clinic address handy. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If premiums are a hardship, ask the Health Benefits Manager about hardship options and payment plans, and speak with your hospital’s financial counselor. Nemours Children’s Financial Assistance has counselors at 1-844-551-2065 who can screen for aid or payment plans. (nemours.org)

Waiver services and long-term supports

Most important action: If your child has an intellectual or developmental disability and needs ongoing supports (respite, behavior supports, assistive technology, employment or day services as they age), apply to the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS). Delaware runs an approved 1915(c) Lifespan Waiver (approved effective 07/01/2024 through 06/30/2029) that funds home- and community-based services across the lifespan. Apply online via DDDS Applicant Services. (medicaid.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
Respite vouchers: If you’re caring for a child with special needs and need a break, check vouchers administered by Easterseals Delaware (typical voucher $500 per funding cycle; reimbursement within about four weeks after you submit invoices). New Castle 302-221-2076; Milford 302-253-1129. (demd.easterseals.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re waitlisted or denied for a waiver slot, ask DDDS about reserved capacity categories and interim supports. Call Delaware 211 to look for stopgap respite or in-home help; ask schools about Extended School Year (ESY) supports to reduce gaps. (delaware211.org)

Assistive technology and equipment

Most important action: Borrow devices free for a trial through the Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative (DATI). They provide device demos and short-term loans, and host an AT Exchange for low-cost equipment. Call 1-800-870-DATI (3284) or 302-831-0354. New Castle ATRC in Newark; Kent/Sussex ATRC in Milford. (cds.udel.edu, dati.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your IEP team or Medicaid plan about coverage; explore DATI’s AT Exchange and small grant programs listed by the Center for Disabilities Studies. (cds.udel.edu)

ABLE accounts (save without losing benefits)

Most important action: Open a Delaware DEPENDABLE (529A ABLE) account to save for disability-related expenses without losing Medicaid or SSI. 2025 contribution limit is $19, 000 * *; u pt o * *$ 5,000 Delaware state income tax deduction for single filers ( $10, 000 * * f or j o in t) . SS I i g n ores t h e f i rs t * *$ 100,000 in an ABLE account for resource limits; Medicaid eligibility is not affected by balance. Enroll via the State Treasurer’s program page. (treasurer.delaware.gov, news.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If fees or investments are confusing, call the Treasurer’s office listed on the ABLE page for guidance, or compare National ABLE Alliance plans.

Early intervention, special education, and autism supports

Birth to Three (0–36 months)

Most important action: If you notice delays or your pediatrician flags concerns, refer to Birth to Three Early Intervention (B23) immediately—earlier is better. Call New Castle 302-283-7240; Kent/Sussex 302-424-7300 (toll-free lines available). Eligibility includes developmental delays, birth mandate conditions (autism, hearing/vision impairments, deaf-blindness), or an established medical condition. Services are coordinated through an IFSP. (b23de.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach B23, ask your pediatrician to fax a referral and contact the Delaware DOE Office of Early Learning 302-735-4295. (doe.k12.de.us)

Ages 3–5 (preschool special education) and school-age services

Most important action: Call your district’s Child Find office and request a special education evaluation in writing if you suspect a disability. DOE lists each district’s Child Find phone and email; the Office of Early Learning can also guide you. Delaware regulations include prior written notice and procedural safeguards for parents. (doe.k12.de.us, regulations.delaware.gov)
Know your rights: Delaware Code requires access to records, IEP meeting safeguards, and timely notices. Ask for the procedural safeguards at each IEP meeting. If the school rejects your request, the prior written notice must explain why and list other options considered. (delcode.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Disability Rights Delaware (Protection & Advocacy) for education advocacy help (Wilmington 302-575-0690, Dover 302-674-8500, Georgetown 302-856-0038), or contact the Parent Information Center of Delaware (PIC) at 888-547-4412 for hands-on parent coaching. (declasi.org, php.com)

Autism-specific supports

Most important action: Use Delaware DOE’s Autism Resources workgroup for school team and family supports. Delaware’s statewide autism program moved to DOE in 2023; pediatric respite now runs through Medicaid. (education.delaware.gov, news.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Autism Delaware at 302-224-6020 for family navigation, support groups, and local services in New Castle and Sussex. (autismdelaware.org)

Food, cash, WIC, and child care

SNAP (Food Supplement Program)

Most important action: Apply online via ASSIST or call for help. Most households qualify with gross income under 200% FPL; resource test is waived for most. Maximum monthly SNAP (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025): household of 3 $768 * *; o f 4 * *$ 975; each additional person +$220. For application help, call the Food Bank of Delaware SNAP Helpline 302-722-6470. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov, fbd.org)
Timeline: Decisions typically within 30 days; expedited SNAP can arrive in as little as 7 days if you meet criteria.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied or delayed, ask for an appeal or an expedited review. The Food Bank can troubleshoot paperwork and call DSS with you. (fbd.org)

WIC

Most important action: WIC helps pregnant/postpartum moms, infants, and kids under 5 with food benefits and nutrition support. For FY2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025), monthly fruit/veg benefit is child $26 * *, p re g nan t / p os tp a r t u m * *$ 47, breastfeeding $52. New 2025–2026 income guidelines are posted (185% FPL). Call your closest Delaware WIC clinic to enroll. (fns.usda.gov, fns-prod.azureedge.us)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your clinic is full, ask for the next available intake and about remote options; call 211 for additional food resources. (delaware211.org)

TANF cash assistance

Most important action: If your income is very low, consider TANF. Payment standards (FFY 2025) include: family of 3 $338 * *, o f 4 * *$ 407, of 5 $475 * *, o f 6 * *$ 544. TANF has work-participation rules and time limits. Apply via ASSIST or at a State Service Center. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If TANF isn’t a fit, ask about Diversion Assistance or other emergency grants at your State Service Center; also call 211 for one-time help options. (delaware211.org)

Child care help (Purchase of Care)

Most important action: If you’re working or in school, apply for Purchase of Care (POC). Financial eligibility is ≤185% FPL at application with a 12‑month phase-out up to 200–215% FPL; cases must remain ≤ 85% of State Median Income during authorization. Copays are waived at ≤150% FPL; otherwise, typical copay is 7% of gross income up to 215% FPL. Use DSS’s provider locator or call 1-800-220-3092 for help choosing a child care program that can support your child’s needs. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a provider declines due to special needs, call your caseworker and ask about higher care levels, IEP/IFSP supports, or inclusion coaching. Ask PIC of Delaware for help with child care accommodation letters. (picofdel.org)

Transportation and getting to care

Medicaid/CHIP rides: Book with Modivcare at 1-866-412-3778 (status 1-866-896-7211); call at least 3 business days before your appointment. (dhss.delaware.gov)
DART First State ADA Paratransit: Within ¾ mile of fixed routes during service hours, fare is $4.00 * *; o u t s i d e A D A zo n e i t ’ s * *$ 6.00. General info 1-800-652-DART; eligibility/Paratransit 1-800-553-3278. (dartfirststate.com)
SCAT taxi discount (seniors/people with disabilities): Buy $10 * * t i c k e t b oo k s f or * *$ 5 (50% off metered fares) after you’re approved for a DART SCAT Photo ID. (dartfirststate.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a ride is late/no‑show, call Modivcare’s “Where’s My Ride” line at 1-866-896-7211. For repeated issues, file a complaint with your MCO and with DMMA. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Housing help (what’s realistic)

Housing Choice Voucher/Public Housing waitlists: Delaware’s five PHAs reopened HCV/public housing waitlists on February 3, 2025 through a statewide portal. Apply and manage your status at Delaware.AffordableHousing.com or call (855) 301-5920 for portal support. Expect long waits; keep contact info updated. (destatehousing.com, news.delaware.gov)
State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP): For households in certain state service systems (DHSS or DSCYF) with income ≤ 50% State Median Income, tenants generally pay 28% of income toward rent and the program pays the rest—referral required from your case manager. For screening, call ADRC 1-800-223-9074. (destatehousing.com)
Emergency shelter: Use Centralized Intake 1-833-346-3233 during business hours; they’ll refer to openings and help with coordinated entry. (housingalliancede.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Stay in touch with CI daily, keep your phone on for call-backs, and ask shelters about family rooms or disability accommodations. For DV-related housing, call the DV hotlines listed above. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Local organizations that actually help

Autism Delaware: Family support, navigation, and programs. Statewide line 302-224-6020. (autismdelaware.org)
Parent Information Center of Delaware (PIC): Parent Training & Information Center for IEP help and workshops. 888-547-4412; online 1:1 request available. (picofdel.org)
Family SHADE (Family Support and Healthcare Alliance DE): Resource hub for CYSHCN; live help 888-547-4412, events, and a statewide resource database. (familyshade.org)
Disability Rights Delaware (Protection & Advocacy): Legal advocacy for disability rights and special education. Wilmington 302-575-0690; Dover 302-674-8500; Georgetown 302-856-0038. (declasi.org)
Easterseals Delaware & MD’s Eastern Shore: Respite vouchers, camp, Agency with Choice (for DDDS Lifespan Waiver participants; up to $5,000 flexible funds). Main 302-324-4444. (demd.easterseals.com)
Down Syndrome Association of Delaware: Parent support and programs. 302-995-1004; offices in Newark and Milton. (dsadelaware.org)
Food Bank of Delaware SNAP Outreach: Application help and case troubleshooting. 302-722-6470. (fbd.org)
Ronald McDonald House of Greater Delaware: Low-cost/no-cost lodging near Nemours; call to request a room and have a hotel back‑up if full. (rmhcdelaware.org)

Diverse communities

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask providers to note correct names/pronouns in your child’s chart and IEP. Delaware 211 can connect you to affirming counseling. For deaf/hard of hearing LGBTQ+ parents, the Delaware Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing provides interpreter info and advocacy at 302-504-4741. (labor.delaware.gov)
Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Use Modivcare for rides (1-866-412-3778) and DART Paratransit if you need more accessible options (1-800-553-3278). DATI’s free device loans can reduce daily strain at home. (dhss.delaware.gov, dartfirststate.com, cds.udel.edu)
Veteran single mothers: Tell the housing helpline and DDDS if you’re a veteran; ask about VASH housing (through Wilmington VA) and about caregiver supports via VA plus state programs. HUD lists the Homeless Veteran Call Center 877-424-3838. (hud.gov)
Immigrant/refugee single moms: WIC and many school-based services don’t require citizenship for the child to receive help; for Medicaid/CHIP and SNAP, immigration rules apply but there are eligible categories. Ask for an interpreter—agencies must provide language access at no cost.
Tribal citizens: If you’re enrolled in a federally recognized tribe, ask DSS and DOE about any additional federal education and health supports available.
Rural single moms (Kent/Sussex): Use B23’s Milford office (302-424-7300) and DATI’s Kent/Sussex ATRC in Milford for closer access. DART Paratransit and Modivcare cover trips across counties; confirm county-connector fares ($4.00 on DART for inter-county connector). (doe.k12.de.us, cds.udel.edu, dartfirststate.com)
Single fathers and other caregivers: All programs above are for any eligible caregiver—moms, dads, grandparents, kinship/relative caregivers. If you’re 55+ raising a child, ask Easterseals about Relative Respite. 302-221-2087. (demd.easterseals.com)
Language access: When you call DSS, DMMA, DDDS, DOE, or SSA, say “interpreter please” and your language—agencies will add a qualified interpreter. SSA provides free interpreter services for SSI applications by phone 1-800-772-1213. (www-origin.ssa.gov)

Key numbers and amounts (tables you can use)

Emergency and hotline numbers (save these)

Service	Number	Hours
Police/Fire/EMS	911	24/7
Child behavioral crisis (MRSS)	1-800-969-4357 (HELP)	24/7
Adult behavioral crisis (North/South)	1-800-652-2929 / 1-800-345-6785	24/7
Domestic violence hotlines	302-762-6110 (NCC); 302-422-8058 (Kent/Sussex); bilingual 302-745-9874	24/7
Housing Alliance Delaware Centralized Intake	1-833-346-3233	Mon–Fri 8–5
Delaware 211	211 or text ZIP to 898-211	Mon–Fri 8–9; Sat 9–5

(kids.delaware.gov, amerihealthcaritasde.com, dhss.delaware.gov, housingalliancede.org, delaware211.org)

SNAP maximum monthly benefits (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025)

Household size	Max allotment
1	$292
2	$536
3	$768
4	$975
5	$1,158
6	$1,390
Each add’l	+$220

Most households qualify up to 200% FPL gross income; details on DSS. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Child care (Purchase of Care) at a glance

Rule	Amount/threshold
Income at application	≤185% FPL
Phase-out at redetermination	Up to 200–215% FPL for 12 months
During authorization	≤85% State Median Income
Copay	Waived ≤150% FPL; usually 7% of gross income up to 215% FPL

Apply via ASSIST or DSS; choose licensed providers who can meet your child’s needs. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Transportation quick facts

Program	Your cost	Who to call
Modivcare (Medicaid/CHIP NEMT)	Usually $0	1-866-412-3778 (status 1-866-896-7211)
DART ADA Paratransit	$4.00 per ADA trip	1-800-652-DART
DART Non-ADA Demand Response	$6.00 per trip	1-800-652-DART
SCAT taxi discount	Buy *$10 * b oo k f or * $ 5*	DART SCAT office (see website)

Book Modivcare rides at least 3 business days ahead. (dhss.delaware.gov, dartfirststate.com)

Early childhood and school contacts

Service	Contact
Birth to Three (B23)	New Castle 302-283-7240; Kent/Sussex 302-424-7300; toll‑free NCC 800-671-0050; Kent/Sussex 800-752-9393
DOE Office of Early Learning	302-735-4295
Child Find (district list)	See DOE’s contact list online

(doe.k12.de.us)

Application checklist

Identification: Photo ID for you; Social Security numbers (if available) and birth certificates for your child(ren).
Income proof: 30 days of pay stubs or self‑employment records; award letters for SSI/child support; unemployment statements.
Disability/medical: Most recent IEP/IFSP, therapy notes, hospital discharge summaries, medication list, specialist letters.
Residency: Lease, utility bill, or letter from shelter; for homeless applicants, use shelter verification or a letter from a service provider.
Insurance: Any current insurance card(s) or denial letters.
Banking/assets (for certain programs): Account statements, ABLE account info.
Transportation: Clinic name, address, and appointment time for ride requests.
Copies organized: Keep digital photos or PDFs of all documents; write down every phone number, name, and deadline you’re given.

Common mistakes to avoid

Missing a deadline: Appeals and verifications have strict dates. Put every deadline on your calendar the day you get it.
Not asking for interpreter or accommodation: Agencies must provide language and disability access at no cost—just ask.
Assuming you don’t qualify: Delaware’s Katie Beckett/TEFRA route ignores parent income. Don’t self‑deny—apply.
Waiting to call Early Intervention: Call B23 at the first concern. Evaluations can take time; early referral matters.
Not updating contact info on waitlists: Housing portals purge inactive accounts. Update phone, email, and mailing address.
Forgetting NEMT lead time: Modivcare needs 3 business days—mark it on your reminder list.
Submitting incomplete forms: Use the checklist above; when in doubt, submit and attach a note explaining what’s missing and when you’ll supply it.

FAQs (Delaware-specific)

What’s the fastest way to get therapies started for a toddler?
Call B23 today: New Castle 302-283-7240; Kent/Sussex 302-424-7300. You can self‑refer—no doctor referral required. (b23de.org)
My child needs Medicaid but my income is too high. Any option?
Yes—the Children’s Community Alternative Disability Program (Katie Beckett/TEFRA) looks at your child’s disability and level of care, not parent income. Child gross income must be ≤ $2, 417.50/ m o n t h * * (2025) an d a sse t s \leq * *$ 2,000. (dhss.delaware.gov, ssa.gov)
How much are CHIP premiums?
Depending on income, premiums are $10 * *, * *$ 15, or $25 per month per family, with the 4th month free if you prepay three months. Call 1-800-996-9969. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Can I get rides to my child’s appointments?
If your child has Medicaid/CHIP, call Modivcare 1-866-412-3778 at least 3 business days before the appointment. ADA Paratransit rides cost $4.00 when within the ADA zone. (dhss.delaware.gov, dartfirststate.com)
What if my district denies an evaluation request?
You must receive prior written notice explaining the refusal and options considered. You can use dispute options in the procedural safeguards or call Disability Rights Delaware. (regulations.delaware.gov)
Is there help with respite?
Easterseals operates respite vouchers (often $500 per cycle) and other supports; call 302-221-2076 (New Castle) or 302-253-1129 (Milford). (demd.easterseals.com)
How much could SNAP help a family of four?
The maximum monthly amount is $975 for a four‑person household (FFY2025). Most households qualify under 200% FPL. (dhss.delaware.gov)
What if I need a shelter tonight with a medically fragile child?
Call/text 1-833-346-3233 at 8 a.m.; ask about family rooms and reasonable accommodations for medical needs. If fleeing DV, use the DV hotlines listed above. (housingalliancede.org)
Are there savings options that won’t cut SSI?
ABLE (DEPENDABLE) accounts let you save; SSI ignores the first $100, 000 * * in t h e a cco u n t an d M e d i c ai d i s u na ff ec t e d .2025 co n t r ib u t i o n l imi t i s * *$ 19,000. (treasurer.delaware.gov)
Where can I get legal help with special education or benefits appeals?
Disability Rights Delaware (P&A) offers free advocacy: Wilmington 302-575-0690; Dover 302-674-8500; Georgetown 302-856-0038. (declasi.org)

Realistic timelines

SNAP: 7–30 days; expedited possible. (dhss.delaware.gov)
WIC: Often same week if documents are ready; benefits load to eWIC after certification. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
Early Intervention (B23): Initial intake call quickly; evaluation/IFSP timelines vary by caseload—call early and keep calling weekly until scheduled. (b23de.org)
Medicaid (Katie Beckett/TEFRA): Weeks to a few months depending on level-of-care review; submit complete medical documentation upfront. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Housing vouchers: Long queue; update your portal every time your contact info changes to avoid removal. (destatehousing.com)

If your child gets care at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware

Financial counselors: Call 1-844-551-2065 for Nemours Financial Assistance and help with Medicaid/CHIP enrollment and payment plans. (nemours.org)
Family lodging: The Ronald McDonald House (across from Nemours) accepts room requests and serves daily dinners; confirm a hotel back‑up if full and ask for medical rates. (rmhcdelaware.org)

What to do if an application stalls

Call the agency’s main line and ask for a “status check” and “escalation” if your case exceeds the usual timeline.
Ask for your rights in writing (notices and appeal instructions). Keep every letter.
Bring an advocate: PIC of Delaware (888-547-4412) for IEP issues; Disability Rights Delaware for disability rights; Food Bank of Delaware (302-722-6470) for SNAP. (picofdel.org, declasi.org, fbd.org)

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team: We use only official primary sources (Delaware agencies, federal sites, established nonprofits) and verify links and contacts.
Standards: We follow our Editorial Standards including primary-source verification, cross-checking, and fast corrections. We focus on practical steps, real timelines, and contact details you can use.
Transparency: Benefit amounts change. We cite current FFY2025 SNAP/WIC figures and 2025 SSI FBR; always check linked official pages for the latest. We respond quickly to reader corrections.
Contact us: Email info@asinglemother.org with updates or corrections.

This editorial standards page was last updated August 2025. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Disclaimer

Accuracy and updates: Program rules and amounts can change. Always verify with the relevant agency before you apply or decide. We provide sources so you can confirm details directly.
Not legal advice: We are independent researchers, not government staff or your lawyer. For legal advice, contact an attorney or Disability Rights Delaware.
Security: To keep our website secure, never share personal SSNs, case numbers, or medical details in public comments or forms. Use official agency portals and phone numbers listed above.

Sources (selected)

Medicaid, CHIP, transportation: Delaware DMMA pages for Disabled Children’s Program and NEMT (Modivcare), DHCP benefits/premiums; Health Benefits Manager. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
SSI amounts 2025: SSA Red Book and SSI benefits pages (FBR $967 individual). (ssa.gov)
SNAP amounts and income: Delaware DSS SNAP page (FFY2025). (dhss.delaware.gov)
WIC benefits and income: USDA WIC FY2025 CVB memo; Federal Register WIC IEG 2025–2026; Delaware WIC income table (effective 7/1/2025). (fns.usda.gov, federalregister.gov, delaware.wicresources.org)
Early intervention and school contacts/rights: B23/DOE Child Find contacts; Delaware regs and code on procedural safeguards. (doe.k12.de.us, regulations.delaware.gov, delcode.delaware.gov)
DDDS Lifespan Waiver: CMS waiver page (effective 07/01/2024–06/30/2029); DDDS intake portal. (medicaid.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
ABLE (DEPENDABLE): State Treasurer ABLE page (2025 limit $19, 000 * *, s t a t e d e d u c t i o n u pt o * *$ 5,000 or $10,000 joint). (treasurer.delaware.gov)
DART paratransit fares: DART First State fares page ( $4.00 * * A D A; * *$ 6.00 non‑ADA). (dartfirststate.com)
Housing waitlists: DSHA press release and Delaware Public Media report on 2/3/2025 reopening via statewide portal. (destatehousing.com, delawarepublic.org)
Centralized Intake: Housing Alliance Delaware Centralized Intake page. (housingalliancede.org)
Crisis lines: DSCYF pages for MRSS and family info (child crisis), domestic violence hotline references. (kids.delaware.gov)

What we guarantee

All external links go to government or established nonprofit sources.
Eligibility details are pulled from official materials and dated.
Contact information is verified as of this update.
Corrections are made fast when verified.

If you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll investigate within 48–72 hours. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do next: Pick one urgent item (food, health coverage, or a school referral) and make that call today. Then use the checklist to line up the rest over the week. You’ve got this—step by step.

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