Domestic Violence Resources and Safety for Single Mothers in Delaware
Domestic Violence and Abuse Help & Safety Resources for Single Mothers in Delaware
Last updated: September 2025
Read this where it’s safe. If your device may be monitored, use a public computer or your phone’s private browsing. For quick exit, close this tab and clear your history. For immediate danger, call 911.
Emergency help now
- If you are in danger: Call 911. Police in Delaware can connect you to a trained victim advocate 24/7 through the Delaware Victim Center at 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461). (dsp.delaware.gov)
- Statewide DV hotlines: New Castle County 302-762-6110; Kent & Sussex 302-422-8058; Spanish bilingual 302-745-9874; TTY 1-800-232-5460. (dvcc.delaware.gov)
- National help: Call 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788 for the National Domestic Violence Hotline; chat is also available. (thehotline.org)
- Immediate shelter and housing triage: Delaware’s Coordinated Entry line 1-833-FIND-BED (1-833-346-3233), Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Mental health crisis: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline; Mobile Crisis lines are 1-800-652-2929 (North) and 1-800-345-6785 (South). (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Delaware 211: For live navigation to local resources, dial 211, text your ZIP to 898-211, or chat weekdays. (delaware211.org)
Quick help box
- Domestic violence hotlines: New Castle 302-762-6110; Kent/Sussex 302-422-8058; Spanish 302-745-9874; TTY 1-800-232-5460. (dvcc.delaware.gov)
- Shelter access: Call the DV hotlines above or Centralized Intake 1-833-346-3233. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- File a Protection From Abuse order: Family Court 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. or email forms to FC_PFA@delaware.gov; emergency requests filed after 3:30 p.m. are heard the next business morning. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Victim compensation for relocation, rent, counseling: Apply with Delaware DOJ VCAP; max award $25,000; report to police within 72 hours and apply within 1 year. Phone 302-255-1770. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
- Apply for food, cash, child care help: Use Delaware ASSIST to apply online. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
- Domestic Violence Hotlines by County New Castle 302-762-6110; Kent/Sussex 302-422-8058; Spanish 302-745-9874; TTY 1-800-232-5460. (dcadv.org)
- Family Court PFA page with forms and email filing FC_PFA@delaware.gov. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) 302-255-1770. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
- Housing Alliance Delaware Coordinated Entry 1-833-346-3233. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Delaware ASSIST – apply for SNAP/TANF/Child Care/Medicaid. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
- SNAP FY2025 maximum benefits and rules. (fns.usda.gov)
- Delaware WIC eligibility and clinic contacts 302-741-2900 or 1-800-222-2189. (fns.usda.gov)
- Purchase of Care child care help – FY2025 income/copay rules. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Delaware State Police Victim Center 1-800-842-8461. (dsp.delaware.gov)
What this guide covers that most results miss
- Exact dollar amounts, phone numbers, and deadlines linked to official Delaware sites.
- Step‑by‑step PFA filing including email filing, same‑day emergency hearing timing, and county phone numbers.
- Housing entry beyond “call a shelter,” including Coordinated Entry and DV hotlines.
- Money help specifically for survivors: VCAP, SNAP/TANF amounts, WIC 2025 income chart, and 2024–2025 child care copay rules.
- Plan B options under each section when the first door doesn’t open.
First steps to get safe tonight
- Call the 24/7 domestic violence hotline for your county to plan safe next steps, including shelter and urgent legal options: New Castle 302-762-6110; Kent/Sussex 302-422-8058; Spanish 302-745-9874. Trained advocates will safety‑plan, help with shelter placement, and connect you to court advocates. (dcadv.org)
- Decide whether to file for an emergency Protection From Abuse order. You can file at Family Court from 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. or email the forms to FC_PFA@delaware.gov. Requests filed after 3:30 p.m. are heard the next business morning. Temporary orders can be issued ex parte and typically last up to 15 days until the next hearing. (courts.delaware.gov)
- If you must leave home: The fastest routes into safe housing are the DV hotlines above or Coordinated Entry 1-833-346-3233 during business hours. For after‑hours, hotlines can place you into DV shelter directly. (dhss.delaware.gov, peoplesplace2.com)
- If you need to talk now: Call or text 988 for free, confidential crisis support, or reach Delaware Mobile Crisis at 1-800-652-2929 (North) or 1-800-345-6785 (South). (dhss.delaware.gov)
Table 1. Emergency contacts at a glance
| Resource | Who it helps | How to reach | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic violence hotline — New Castle County | Survivors seeking safety planning, shelter, court advocacy | 302-762-6110 | 24/7, multilingual; run by CHILD, Inc. (childinc.com) |
| Domestic violence hotline — Kent & Sussex | Same as above | 302-422-8058 | 24/7; run by People’s Place SAFE. (peoplesplace2.com) |
| Spanish bilingual hotline | Spanish‑speaking survivors | 302-745-9874 | 24/7 bilingual advocacy. (dvcc.delaware.gov) |
| National DV Hotline | Anyone in the U.S. | 1-800-799-7233; text START to 88788 | 24/7; chat available. (thehotline.org) |
| Coordinated Entry for shelter | Families needing beds tonight | 1-833-346-3233 | Weekdays 8 a.m.–5 p.m.; connects to shelters statewide. (dhss.delaware.gov) |
| Delaware Victim Center | Crime victims needing a state advocate | 1-800-842-8461 | 24/7; statewide. (dsp.delaware.gov) |
| Family Court PFA | File for an order | Email: FC_PFA@delaware.gov; phones below | See county numbers below. (courts.delaware.gov) |
| Mobile Crisis (adult) | Behavioral health crisis | 1-800-652-2929 (North); 1-800-345-6785 (South) | 24/7 statewide. (dhss.delaware.gov) |
A note on the DV numbers above: These hotlines are staffed 24/7 by trained advocates and are the quickest way to enter DV shelter and services in Delaware. (dvcc.delaware.gov)
Protection From Abuse orders in Delaware
- Most important first: If you need an emergency order, go to Family Court during business hours or email your packet early in the day and ask for an ex parte hearing. After 3:30 p.m., emergency requests are heard the next business morning. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Where to file: In person 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. at Family Court, or by email to FC_PFA@delaware.gov with required forms: Petition (Form #450) and Information Sheet (Form #240). For an emergency order, include Affidavit forms (#656 and #654). (courts.delaware.gov, courts.delaware.gov)
- What a PFA can do: Order no abuse and no contact, give you exclusive use of home/vehicle, temporary custody/visitation, support, payment of expenses, firearm surrender, return of key documents, and protection for pets. Final protective provisions can last up to 2 years (longer if aggravating circumstances). (courts.delaware.gov)
- How service works: Family Court arranges service on the respondent; you don’t have to do it yourself. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Hearing timeline: Temporary ex parte orders last up to 15 days; a case review and then a trial date follow (often via Zoom). (courts.delaware.gov)
- County Family Court phones: New Castle 302-255-0300; Kent 302-672-1000; Sussex 302-855-7400. For in‑court DV advocacy: 302-255-0420 (NCC), 302-672-1075 (Kent), 302-856-5843 (Sussex). (courts.delaware.gov)
Table 2. PFA process and timing
| Step | What happens | Key details |
|---|---|---|
| File | Submit forms in person or email | Petition #450 + Info Sheet #240; request ex parte if in danger. Email early. (courts.delaware.gov, courts.delaware.gov) |
| Emergency hearing | Same day or next business morning | Requests after 3:30 p.m. heard the next business morning. (courts.delaware.gov) |
| Temporary order | If granted | Lasts up to 15 days; includes no contact, stay‑away, firearms, etc. (courts.delaware.gov) |
| Service | Court serves respondent | You don’t arrange service; court handles it. (courts.delaware.gov) |
| Case review/consent | Mediation by court staff | You can agree to a consent order without a finding of abuse. (courts.delaware.gov) |
| Trial | If no agreement | Final protective provisions up to 2 years, longer if aggravated. (courts.delaware.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t safely file today, call the DV hotline for safety planning and help completing forms, or ask a court‑based advocate to assist you by phone. If English is not your first language or you need ASL/CART, the Delaware Courts provide interpreters at no cost; request as early as possible. (courts.delaware.gov)
Shelter, housing, and staying hidden
- Fastest route to shelter: Use the DV hotlines for your county or Centralized Intake 1-833-346-3233. Hotlines are 24/7; Coordinated Entry is open Mon–Fri and can connect you to emergency shelter, rapid rehousing, and permanent supportive housing. (dvcc.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
- Where services come from: In New Castle County, CHILD, Inc. operates DV shelters; in Kent and Sussex, People’s Place SAFE operates DV shelters and transitional housing. (childinc.com, peoplesplace2.com)
- Keep your address confidential: Delaware’s Address Confidentiality Program provides a substitute address and mail forwarding for survivors of domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, and kidnapping. Ask the Delaware DOJ Victim Service Unit at 1-800-870-1790 or email the ACP contact listed on DOJ’s site. (delcode.delaware.gov, attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
- Know your housing rights under VAWA: Survivors cannot be denied, evicted, or lose assistance in HUD‑assisted housing because of abuse; you can request an emergency transfer or lease bifurcation. You can self‑certify using HUD Form 5382 and must receive HUD’s VAWA notice (Form 5380). (hud.gov)
Table 3. Housing navigation for survivors
| Need | First call | Backup option | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DV shelter tonight | 302-762-6110 (NCC) or 302-422-8058 (Kent/Sussex) | 1-833-346-3233 Coordinated Entry | Hotlines can place you directly into DV shelters 24/7. (dvcc.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov) |
| Non‑DV emergency shelter | 1-833-346-3233 | 211 or text ZIP to 898-211 | Centralized Intake handles entry and referrals. (dhss.delaware.gov, delaware211.org) |
| Rapid rehousing / PSH | 1-833-346-3233 | DV advocate | Ask about DV‑dedicated rapid rehousing slots. (dcadv.org) |
| Keep address private | DOJ Victim Service Unit 1-800-870-1790 | Email ACP contact (DOJ site) | ACP is authorized by Delaware law. (delcode.delaware.gov) |
| HUD‑assisted housing rights | Your PHA/landlord | Legal aid (below) | VAWA protects survivors and allows emergency transfer. (hud.gov) |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If DV shelters are full, ask the hotline about hotel placement, transitional housing, or rapid rehousing. If a HUD‑assisted landlord threatens eviction because of abuse, cite your VAWA rights and contact legal aid immediately. (hud.gov)
Money and benefits to stabilize your household
Delaware Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP)
- What it can pay for: Medical/dental care, counseling, prescription meds, wage loss, funeral/burial, crime‑scene cleanup, changing locks, temporary housing, moving/relocation, and other crime‑related costs not covered elsewhere. Maximum award is $25,000. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
- Deadlines and reporting: Report to law enforcement within 72 hours and file your claim within 1 year of the crime; cooperate with law enforcement and VCAP staff. Phone 302-255-1770. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
- How to apply: Call VCAP or download the application on the DOJ site; you’ll need police report info and proof of expenses. If you’re under 18, a parent/guardian applies for you. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t meet the 72‑hour or 1‑year rule, call VCAP anyway—explain any safety barriers and ask about exceptions or documentation that may help. For urgent rent or utilities, ask your DV advocate about local flexible funds while your VCAP claim is pending. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
SNAP food benefits (Delaware Food Supplement Program)
- What to expect: For October 2024–September 2025 (FY2025), the SNAP maximum for a household of four is 975∗∗monthly;minimumbenefitis∗∗975** monthly; minimum benefit is **23. Delaware uses 200% FPL gross income screening for most households. (fns.usda.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
- How to apply fast: Apply online at Delaware ASSIST. If you have very low income or emergency needs, you may qualify for expedited service; benefits must be available within 7 days if you qualify. EBT cards mail in 3–14 days; over‑the‑counter cards can be issued in immediate‑need situations. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov)
Table 4. SNAP FY2025 maximum monthly benefits (48 states/DC)
| Household size | Max monthly benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
Delaware’s SNAP income and benefit chart for FY2025 (including 200% FPL gross limit) is posted by DSS and mirrors USDA amounts. Apply or upload documents through ASSIST. (dhss.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If online is unsafe, file by phone or in person at a DSS office. Ask about “good cause” for missing an interview if safety interfered, and request expedited processing if you have little or no income. (dhss.delaware.gov)
TANF cash assistance (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- Payment standards FFY2025: For a family of three, the monthly TANF payment standard is 338∗∗;forafamilyoftwo∗∗338**; for a family of two **270; for a family of four $407. The TANF chart also lists the gross and net income limits used by DSS. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Domestic violence waivers: Delaware’s TANF program implements the Family Violence Option; work or child support cooperation rules can be waived for safety reasons on a case‑by‑case basis—tell your worker. (dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov)
- Apply: Use Delaware ASSIST; an interview is required. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If child support cooperation would put you at risk, ask for a “good cause” waiver and provide any documentation you have (e.g., PFA, police report, letter from a DV advocate). Regulations allow good‑cause exceptions to protect survivors. (regulations.delaware.gov)
Child care help: Purchase of Care (POC)
- Income limits and copays FY2025: Delaware expanded access—initial eligibility up to 185% FPL (with a phase‑out up to 200% FPL at redetermination), and copays are capped at 7% of income with copays waived at or below 150% FPL. A family of three can qualify at gross monthly income up to $4,304 at application. (dhss.delaware.gov, news.delaware.gov)
- Processing: DSS processes child care applications within 2 business days after the interview and signature. (regulations.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you need care before approval, ask your DV advocate about emergency child care support or a provider willing to hold a slot; confirm with DSS when your case will be authorized. (dhss.delaware.gov)
WIC nutrition for you and your kids under 5
- 2025–2026 income limits: For a household of two, monthly limit 3,261∗∗;three∗∗3,261**; three **4,109; four $4,957. WIC is for pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding parents, infants, and children under five. Delaware’s WIC lines: 302-741-2900 or 1-800-222-2189; clinic numbers are posted by county. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, fns.usda.gov, delaware.wicresources.org)
- How to apply: Call a clinic for an appointment; bring ID, proof of Delaware address, and income documentation. (fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If getting to a clinic is unsafe, ask for the nearest location with Spanish services and for a first‑morning appointment. (delaware.wicresources.org)
Work, school, and income protections
- Job protections and accommodations: Delaware law makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against you for being a victim of domestic violence, sexual offense, or stalking, and requires reasonable accommodations (like schedule changes or using accrued leave), unless it causes undue hardship. If needed, file a charge with the Delaware Department of Labor. (delcode.delaware.gov, labor.delaware.gov)
- Unemployment if you left work due to abuse: Delaware allows unemployment benefits when leaving or being discharged due to domestic violence, including when you relocate for safety. Documentation may include a police/court record or a letter from a shelter worker, attorney, clergy, or health professional. (delcode.delaware.gov)
- Courts and language access: Free court interpreters and ADA accommodations are available; request as early as possible (ideally 14 days before your hearing). (courts.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer won’t accommodate safety needs, save proof of your request and talk to legal aid. If you’re denied unemployment, appeal quickly and attach your DV documentation. (delcode.delaware.gov)
Legal help and advocacy
- Court‑based DV advocacy: CHILD, Inc. and People’s Place operate advocacy programs inside Family Courts: New Castle 302-255-0420; Kent 302-672-1075; Sussex 302-856-5843. (dcadv.org)
- Legal aid: Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI) 302-575-0660 (NCC), 302-674-8500 (Kent), 302-856-0038 (Sussex); Delaware Volunteer Legal Services 302-478-8850; Legal Services Corporation of Delaware 302-575-0408 (Wilmington), 302-734-8820 (Dover). (dcadv.org)
- Police victim services: Delaware State Police Victim Center 1-800-842-8461; city/county police victim service contacts are listed on DSP’s site. (dsp.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If phones aren’t safe, ask a DV advocate to place calls on your behalf and request a callback through the advocate. (dcadv.org)
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Get culturally competent support through DCADV’s LGBTQ+ resource page and the 988 LGBTQ+ option (press 3). Many Delaware DV programs offer inclusive services and can connect you with affirming counseling. (dcadv.org, dhss.delaware.gov)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for reasonable accommodations with DSS, courts, and shelters. For disability‑focused legal help, contact CLASI’s Disabilities Law Program via the county numbers above. For accessibility and interpreter needs in court, use the Courts’ ADA and Language Access contacts. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: The Wilmington VA Medical Center’s Intimate Partner Violence Assistance Program has a coordinator reachable at 302-994-2511 x5430; Women Veterans Call Center 855-829-6636 can help you enroll and connect you with services. (socialwork.va.gov, womenshealth.va.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: You can seek a PFA regardless of immigration status and may qualify for U‑ or T‑visa or VAWA self‑petition help. Contact the Delaware DOJ Office of Immigration Assistance 302-577-8390; CLASI also assists immigrant survivors. The DV Spanish hotline is 302-745-9874. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov, dvcc.delaware.gov)
- Tribal citizens: StrongHearts Native Helpline offers 24/7 culturally specific support at 1-844-7NATIVE (1-844-762-8483) by phone, text, or chat. (strongheartshelpline.org)
- Rural single moms with limited access: If transportation is a barrier, ask the hotline for phone‑based advocacy and mobile outreach. Coordinated Entry can triage shelter and rapid rehousing by phone at 1-833-346-3233. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Single fathers: Delaware DV services and PFAs are available regardless of gender; dial the same hotlines. PFAs can include temporary custody and safe visitation arrangements. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Language access: Courts provide interpreters in many languages; request early. Delaware 211 can connect you with bilingual services; DV hotlines have bilingual advocates or access to interpreters. (courts.delaware.gov, delaware211.org)
Local organizations and community supports
- CHILD, Inc. (New Castle County): DV hotline 302-762-6110; shelters; live chat on website. (childinc.com)
- People’s Place SAFE (Kent/Sussex): DV hotline 302-422-8058; shelter, transitional housing, advocacy. (peoplesplace2.com)
- Abriendo Puertas (bilingual DV services): 302-745-9874; bilingual hotline, shelter, advocacy. (dvcc.delaware.gov)
- Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence (DCADV): Statewide coalition and resource directory. (dcadv.org)
- Latin American Community Center (LACC): Bilingual support, PFA help, DV support groups; 302-655-7338. (thelatincenter.org)
- Delaware State Police Victim Center: 1-800-842-8461; connects to victim services across police departments. (dsp.delaware.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to reach out: Calling a hotline early can open more options (shelter, safety planning, court advocacy). Delaware hotlines are confidential and 24/7. (dvcc.delaware.gov)
- Missing VCAP deadlines: Try to report within 72 hours and apply within 1 year; ask VCAP about any exceptions if safety delayed you. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
- Applying for benefits without flagging safety risks: Tell DSS you are escaping domestic violence so they can note good‑cause exemptions (child support cooperation, TANF work rules). (regulations.delaware.gov)
- Not requesting interpreters/accommodations: Courts and agencies provide interpreters and ADA accommodations at no cost; request as early as possible. (courts.delaware.gov)
Application checklist
- Identity: State ID or other photo ID; if unsafe to keep, ask your advocate about safe storage.
- Address safety: If you’re in the Address Confidentiality Program, use the substitute address on all forms. Ask DOJ Victim Services at 1-800-870-1790. (delcode.delaware.gov)
- Income: Recent pay stubs or a written statement; if you have no income, note that on your forms.
- Housing: Lease or proof of residence if available; for VAWA emergency transfers, ask for HUD Form 5382. (hud.gov)
- Police/court: Any PFA, police reports, or letters from DV programs for good‑cause waivers or VCAP.
- Kids: Birth certificates, school info, WIC cards if you have them.
Statewide benefits overview for survivors
Table 5. Key benefits, amounts, and who qualifies
| Program | What you could get | Who qualifies | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| VCAP | Up to $25,000 across eligible crime‑related costs (e.g., relocation, temporary housing, locks, counseling, wage loss) | DV and violent‑crime victims who reported to police within 72 hours and apply within 1 year | Call 302-255-1770; see DOJ VCAP page. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov) |
| SNAP | Max monthly benefit examples: 1 person 292∗∗;2∗∗292**; 2 **536; 3 768∗∗;4∗∗768**; 4 **975 | Income at or below program limits (most at 200% FPL gross); expedited issuance possible within 7 days | Apply via ASSIST; EBT card in 3–14 days; immediate card possible in limited cases. (fns.usda.gov, dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov) |
| TANF | Monthly cash (e.g., family of 3 338∗∗;2∗∗338**; 2 **270; 4 $407) + work support; DV waivers possible | Low‑income families with children; pregnancy in later term may qualify | Apply via ASSIST; interview required. (dhss.delaware.gov) |
| Child Care (POC) | Subsidized child care; copays waived ≤ 150% FPL; copay cap 7% of income | Working, training, or safety need; initial income ≤ 185% FPL (phase‑out to 200% FPL) | Apply via ASSIST or DSS; processed within 2 business days. (dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov) |
| WIC | Food packages, breastfeeding support, nutrition counseling | Pregnant/postpartum parents, infants, kids < 5; income up to 185% FPL (e.g., 4‑person $4,957/month) | Call 302-741-2900 or 1-800-222-2189; schedule clinic visit. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, fns.usda.gov) |
Safety, tech, and staying connected
- Tech safety: If someone may be monitoring your device, learn practical steps at NNEDV’s Safety Net. (nnedv.org)
- Victim notification: Sign up with Delaware VINE 1-877-338-8463 to be notified about custody status or court events. (dsp.delaware.gov)
- Sexual assault help: YWCA SARC 1-800-773-8570 (statewide) or ContactLifeline 1-800-262-9800. (dvcc.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your abuser controls your phone, call from a friend’s device, a library computer, or use a public phone at a state service center. (delaware211.org)
Regional contacts
- Family Court by county: New Castle 302-255-0300; Kent 302-672-1000; Sussex 302-855-7400. (courts.delaware.gov)
- County‑based DV advocacy phones: New Castle 302-255-0420; Kent 302-672-1075; Sussex 302-856-5843. (dcadv.org)
- Delaware 211: 211; text ZIP to 898-211; live chat weekdays. (delaware211.org)
Real‑world examples
- You need out tonight with two kids: Call 302-762-6110 (NCC) or 302-422-8058 (Kent/Sussex). Ask the advocate to place you on the shelter list and start an emergency PFA; they can help you complete forms and arrange a safe ride when available. If the line is busy, call 1-800-799-7233 to keep you on the line until the local hotline reconnects. (dcadv.org, thehotline.org)
- Your job isn’t safe anymore: Ask HR in writing for schedule changes as a safety accommodation, citing Delaware law. If you must leave work to relocate for safety, apply for unemployment—Delaware recognizes DV‑related quits or discharges with documentation. (delcode.delaware.gov)
- You lost groceries escaping: Apply for SNAP on ASSIST and ask for expedited service; tell DSS if you have little or no income this month. (regulations.delaware.gov)
Frequently asked questions (Delaware‑specific)
- How fast can I get an emergency PFA: If you file before 3:30 p.m., an ex parte hearing is typically the same day; after 3:30 p.m., it’s heard the next business morning. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Do I pay to file a PFA: There is no filing fee for a PFA petition in Delaware Family Court. See the PFA page for current details. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Can a PFA include my kids and my pet: Yes—PFAs can address temporary custody/visitation and protection of companion animals. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Where do I go after hours: Call the DV hotlines (New Castle 302-762-6110; Kent/Sussex 302-422-8058); they place after‑hours shelter entries. (dvcc.delaware.gov)
- What if I don’t speak English: Courts provide interpreters at no cost; request in advance. DV hotlines have bilingual staff or interpreter lines. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Can I keep my address secret from the abuser: Ask about Delaware’s Address Confidentiality Program via DOJ; it provides a substitute legal address and mail forwarding. (delcode.delaware.gov)
- Can I get unemployment if I left to be safe: Yes, Delaware law allows UI if you left or were discharged due to domestic violence, with documentation. (delcode.delaware.gov)
- Who replaces my locks or pays for moving: VCAP can reimburse crime‑related lock changes, temporary housing, and relocation within the $25,000 cap. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
- How much SNAP could I receive: A family of three’s FY2025 maximum is 768∗∗;fouris∗∗768**; four is **975. Your amount depends on income and deductions. (fns.usda.gov)
- How do I get child care so I can work: Apply for Purchase of Care; eligibility up to 185% FPL (phase‑out to 200% FPL), copays waived ≤ 150% FPL, cap 7%. Processed within 2 business days. (dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov)
What to expect from Delaware’s system
- Hotlines and shelter placements are live 24/7; bilingual services exist statewide. (dvcc.delaware.gov)
- Family Court supports email filing for PFAs and provides remote hearings in many cases. (courts.delaware.gov)
- DV data and system improvement are tracked by the Domestic Violence Coordinating Council’s Fatal Incident Review Team; the DVCC posts annual reports and system updates. (dvcc.delaware.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, USDA, HUD, Delaware Courts, Delaware DOJ, and established nonprofits. This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified: September 2025, next review: April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
Information only: This guide is for general information. Program rules, benefit amounts, and phone numbers can change. Always verify with the relevant agency using the links and numbers provided.
Safety and health: If you or your children are in immediate danger, call 911. For mental health crisis, call or text 988. We use encryption and link only to official websites to help keep your browsing safer, but any device can be monitored—use a safe device whenever possible. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Sources and key links
- Domestic Violence Hotlines (DCADV). (dcadv.org)
- CHILD, Inc. DV services and hotline. (childinc.com)
- People’s Place SAFE program and hotline. (peoplesplace2.com)
- DVCC 24‑Hour Hotline Numbers. (dvcc.delaware.gov)
- Family Court PFA page and forms. (courts.delaware.gov, courts.delaware.gov)
- Delaware ASSIST apply for benefits. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
- SNAP FY2025 COLA memo (USDA). (fns.usda.gov)
- Delaware SNAP FY2025 chart. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- TANF FFY2025 payment standards (DSS). (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Purchase of Care FY2025 income/copays (DSS). (dhss.delaware.gov)
- POC processing standard and application methods (Del. Reg.). (regulations.delaware.gov)
- WIC 2025–26 income guidelines (USDA). (federalregister.gov)
- Delaware WIC program contacts. (fns.usda.gov)
- DOJ VCAP benefits and deadlines. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
- Housing Alliance Delaware Centralized Intake. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- VAWA housing protections (HUD). (hud.gov)
- Delaware Court Interpreter Program / ADA access. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Employment protections for DV survivors (Del. Code Title 19). (delcode.delaware.gov)
- UI benefits for DV‑related separation (Del. Code § 3314). (delcode.delaware.gov)
- Delaware 988 hub and crisis lines. (dhss.delaware.gov)
What if a number is wrong or a link is broken: Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and update within 48 hours per our editorial policy.
🏛️More Delaware Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Delaware
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
