Free Baby Gear and Children’s Items for Single Mothers in Delaware
Free Baby Gear and Children’s Clothing Resources for Single Mothers in Delaware
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help first
- In an immediate danger or medical emergency: Call 911.
- Need diapers, formula, clothing, shelter, or urgent help today: Call Delaware 2‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑560‑3372 (Mon–Fri 8 a.m.–9 p.m.). You can also text your ZIP to 898‑211 for live help. (delaware211.org)
- Postpartum mental health or emotional crisis: Call or text 988 (24/7, free and confidential). If you prefer chat, visit 988lifeline.org.
- Domestic violence help in Delaware: Call the 24/7 hotline at 302‑762‑6110 (New Castle), 302‑422‑8058 (Kent), or 302‑745‑9874 (Sussex). You can also call the National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑SAFE.
- Baby doesn’t have a safe place to sleep tonight: Ask for a “Cribs for Kids referral” from any hospital, WIC clinic, home‑visiting program, or doctor. The program provides Pack ‘n Plays to eligible families statewide; see the section below for the gatekeeper contact and criteria. (courts.delaware.gov)
Quick Help Box
- Apply online for multiple benefits (SNAP, TANF cash, Child Care, Medicaid, WIC pre‑screen): Use Delaware ASSIST official portal. If you’re not sure what you qualify for, tap “Do I Qualify?” first. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
- Delaware WIC (nutrition, formula, breastfeeding support, infant/child foods): New Castle call 302‑283‑7540 or mobile 302‑605‑4099/4066/6653; Kent 302‑424‑7220 or 302‑605‑1833; Sussex 302‑424‑7220 or 302‑605‑4055; or email by county (links in section below). Clinics are by appointment; walk‑ins for nutrition aren’t seen. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
- Free diapers and wipes through Delaware Medicaid (postpartum): If you’re in Delaware’s Diamond State Health Plan Medicaid and recently gave birth, you can get up to 80 diapers + 1 pack of wipes per week for the first 12 weeks postpartum. Ask your Medicaid plan or case manager to activate the benefit. (news.delaware.gov)
- Car seat safety checks (free) and the latest Delaware car seat law: Call New Castle 302‑434‑3234; Kent 302‑744‑2749; Sussex 302‑242‑7107. Appointments are required. (ohs.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
- Clothing Bank (free children’s clothing via referrals) and School Uniform initiative: Friendship House Clothing Bank, 1603 Jessup St, Wilmington; phone 302‑654‑1390. Ask your school, shelter, case worker, or FH Empowerment Center for a referral. (mapquest.com, guidestar.org)
What this guide covers that many lists miss
- Bold numbers and direct phone lines you can call today, with appointment requirements explained.
- Exact current amounts and income limits for SNAP and WIC for FY 2025 and 2025–26, plus TANF standards. (fns.usda.gov, dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
- New diaper coverage through Delaware Medicaid and how to get it turned on. (news.delaware.gov)
- Step‑by‑step application checklists, the most common mistakes, realistic timelines, and Plan B options if you’re denied or waitlisted.
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| What you need | First step | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Diapers/wipes postpartum | Call your Medicaid plan and ask for the “postpartum diaper and meal benefit” | Usually active within a few days of plan confirmation; benefit runs 12 weeks postpartum. (news.delaware.gov) |
| Baby formula and groceries | Book a WIC appointment; also apply for SNAP on ASSIST | WIC scheduling varies by clinic; SNAP decision within 30 days, or 7 days if expedited. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov, fns.usda.gov) |
| Safe sleep (crib/Pack ‘n Play) | Ask a nurse/social worker to submit a Cribs for Kids referral | Referrals processed quickly if criteria met; home education is required. (courts.delaware.gov) |
| Car seat check or guidance | Call your county OHS fitting station | Appointments required; availability varies weekly. (ohs.delaware.gov) |
| Free children’s clothing | Request a referral to Friendship House Clothing Bank or visit St. Patrick’s Center walk‑in closet | Referrals/walk‑ins; hours vary by site. (mapquest.com, stpatrickscenter.org) |
Free Diapers and Wipes
Start here
Call your Medicaid plan case manager right now: Ask to activate Delaware’s postpartum diaper benefit. Eligible postpartum members in Diamond State Health Plan can receive up to 80 diapers + 1 pack of wipes each week for the first 12 weeks after birth; many mothers also receive home‑delivered meals under the same approval. If you’re unsure of your plan or eligibility, call the Delaware Medicaid Member Services line on your card or contact DMMA through your plan portal. (news.delaware.gov)
- What you get: Up to 80 diapers/week plus 1 pack of wipes/week for 12 weeks postpartum, and either 2 home‑delivered meals/day or a shelf‑stable food box (if medically appropriate). (news.delaware.gov)
- Who qualifies: Low‑income postpartum members enrolled in Delaware Medicaid’s Diamond State Health Plan, as approved in Delaware’s federal Section 1115 waiver renewal. (news.delaware.gov)
- Reality check: This benefit does not cover diapers for older infants throughout the first two years; it specifically focuses on the postpartum period. If you need diapers beyond 12 weeks, combine this with local diaper banks and SNAP/WIC savings.
- Plan B if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 to locate diaper distributions near you; ask about the Middletown Diaper Bank in the MOT area, Bayard House Diaper Bank (Wilmington), and pop‑up events. (delaware211.org, delawareadrc.com)
Local diaper banks and ongoing help
- Middletown Diaper Bank (MOT area): Usually the first Saturday monthly, 2–4 p.m. Check Delaware 211 for dates/changes. (delaware211.org)
- Bayard House Diaper Bank (Catholic Charities, Wilmington): Residential maternity program also operates a diaper bank with distributions several times a year for eligible families. Call 302‑655‑9624 to ask about diaper assistance; address 300 Bayard Ave, Wilmington. (delaware211.org, chamberofcommerce.com)
- Delaware 2‑1‑1 diaper resources: Use the diapers page search tool or call 2‑1‑1 to be routed to current distribution sites in your county. (delaware211.org)
- What to bring: Photo ID, child’s DOB, proof of Delaware address, and if available, a benefits letter (Medicaid/SNAP/WIC). Requirements vary; call ahead.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatrician’s social worker for an emergency pack of diapers and a written referral. Hospitals, FQHCs (like Westside Family Healthcare), and home‑visiting nurses may have emergency stock or direct referral pathways. (westsidehealth.org)
WIC: Formula, Infant Foods, Fruits/Vegetables, Breastfeeding Support
Most important action
Book your WIC appointment now: New Castle 302‑283‑7540; Kent 302‑424‑7220; Sussex 302‑424‑7220. You can also use the county mobile numbers or email (NCC: nccwic@delaware.gov; Kent: kentwic@delaware.gov; Sussex: sussexwic@delaware.gov). Clinics are by appointment. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
- Who’s eligible: Delaware residents who are pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding, infants, and children under 5, who meet income guidelines and have a nutrition risk documented by WIC. Non‑citizens can qualify. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Income limits (effective July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026): WIC uses 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Examples (monthly, 48 states): 1 person 2,413∗∗;2∗∗2,413**; 2 **3,261; 3 4,109∗∗;4∗∗4,109**; 4 **4,957; 5 5,805∗∗;6∗∗5,805**; 6 **6,653; 7 7,501∗∗;8∗∗7,501**; 8 **8,349. Add $848 for each additional person. (federalregister.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- What you get: WIC food packages for mom and child, including infant formula if needed, and monthly cash‑value benefit (CVB) to buy fruits/vegetables: children 26∗∗/mo;pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**/mo; pregnant/postpartum **47/mo; fully/mostly breastfeeding $52/mo—FY 2025 amounts through September 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov)
- Breast pumps and feeding help: Ask for WIC lactation support; FQHCs like Westside Family Healthcare also have breastfeeding peer counselors (with help obtaining pumps). New Castle 302‑224‑6800; Kent/Sussex 302‑678‑4622. (westsidehealth.org)
Required documents at your WIC appointment
- Proof of identity and address: Driver’s license/state ID, plus utility bill or lease. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, tax return, or employer letter. Enrollment in Medicaid, TANF, or Child Care may confer adjunctive income eligibility. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Pregnancy proof or the child: Note from doctor stating pregnancy, or bring the infant/child. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Timeline: Appointment availability varies by clinic; call early in the day. After certification, benefits load to eWIC promptly.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t be seen quickly, ask WIC to place you on a cancellation list, and call nearby clinics (Claymont, Dover, Milford, Shipley/Seaford). If you’re formula‑short today, call your pediatrician or Westside Family Healthcare about emergency formula distribution while you wait on WIC. (westsidehealth.org)
SNAP (Food Benefits) to Stretch Your Budget for Baby Needs
First step
Apply on Delaware ASSIST today: If you meet income rules, SNAP lets you buy groceries so cash can go to diapers, wipes, or clothes. Start your application, upload documents, and request expedited service if your income is very low. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
- Processing time: Standard decisions within 30 days; certain households with little income may get expedited benefits within 7 days. (COLA and benefit standards below.) (fns.usda.gov)
- Delaware SNAP maximum benefits (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025): HH of 1 292∗∗;2∗∗292**; 2 **536; 3 768∗∗;4∗∗768**; 4 **975; 5 1,158∗∗;6∗∗1,158**; 6 **1,390; 7 1,536∗∗;8∗∗1,536**; 8 **1,756; add $220 per extra member. Delaware uses 200% FPL as the gross income test for most households—see the state chart below. (fns.usda.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
Delaware SNAP: income and maximums (FY 2025)
| Household size | Max gross monthly income (200% FPL) | Max allotment |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,510 | $292 |
| 2 | $3,408 | $536 |
| 3 | $4,304 | $768 |
| 4 | $5,200 | $975 |
| 5 | $6,098 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $6,994 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $7,890 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $8,788 | $1,756 |
| Each add’l | +$898 | +$220 |
Source: Delaware Division of Social Services SNAP income/benefit table (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Tips that increase benefits: Report your full rent and utility costs, child care costs, and medical expenses if over $35/month for elderly/disabled households. Reporting can raise your benefit amount. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Plan B if this doesn’t work: While you wait, visit Food Bank of Delaware’s Healthy Pantry Centers (Newark: 302‑722‑6476 appointments; Milford pantry days listed online) or a partner pantry near you. (fbd.org)
TANF Cash Aid (can be used for baby items and clothing)
First step
If you have a minor child and very low income, apply for TANF on ASSIST. Delaware’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) monthly cash payments are modest but flexible (you can spend on baby needs, gas to pick up donations, etc.). (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
- TANF payment standards (FFY 2025, Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025): Example “Payment Standard” by budget group: 1 person 201∗∗;2∗∗201**; 2 **270; 3 338∗∗;4∗∗338**; 4 **407; 5 475∗∗;6∗∗475**; 6 **544; 7 612∗∗;8∗∗612**; 8 **681; 9 750∗∗;10∗∗750**; 10 **819. Gross and net income tests apply; certain work expense deductions and child care disregards are allowed. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Who can qualify: Families with minor children (Delaware also extends eligibility to women in the ninth month of pregnancy). (dhss.delaware.gov)
- How much will you get: Use Delaware’s TANF calculator to test eligibility; final amounts depend on verified income and household composition. (dhss.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider applying for emergency assistance through your State Service Center (ask about Community Resource Assistance Services/Needy Family Fund and referrals to Housing Alliance Delaware). The Northeast State Service Center, Wilmington, can guide you: DSS 302‑552‑3503; DPH 302‑283‑7540. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Safe Sleep: Free Cribs/Pack ‘n Plays (Cribs for Kids® Delaware)
Most important action
Ask a professional to refer you now: The Delaware Cribs for Kids® program only accepts referrals from professionals (nurse, social worker, home visitor). The gatekeeper is the state’s Maternal & Child Death Review Commission. Families must lack a safe crib, meet financial need, and be due within 6 weeks or have an infant under 12 months (program rules; historically <6 months, now up to 12 months per AAP guidance noted on program page). Call 302‑255‑1743 for program information or email CDRC@delaware.gov. (courts.delaware.gov)
- What to expect: Education on safe sleep plus a Graco Pack ‘n Play delivered with instruction—Delaware’s program is recognized for providing education in the home. (courts.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Westside Family Healthcare Community Health Workers about portable crib assistance or referral pathways. Call 302‑678‑4622 ext. 1529 (Kent/Sussex) or main lines listed on their site. (westsidehealth.org)
Car Seats: Free Safety Checks and Law Updates
Most important action
Book a free fitting station appointment:
- Wilmington DMV (New Castle): 302‑434‑3234 (call/text mobile 302‑256‑1123)
- Dover DMV (Kent): 302‑744‑2749 (call/text mobile 302‑387‑2324)
- Sussex County mobile fitting (by appt): 302‑242‑7107 (ohs.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
- The law (effective June 30, 2024): Under age 2 and 30 lbs rear‑facing; under age 4 and 40 lbs in a harnessed seat; booster until reaching the manufacturer’s height/weight max (none are below 4’4”). First offense is a referral to OHS; second offense $25 plus court costs. (ohs.delaware.gov)
- Reality check: Appointments are required. Bring your child and car seat manual if possible. Technicians will help you install correctly and check for recalls.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your hospital birthing unit or pediatric clinic about scheduled check events during Child Passenger Safety Week, or contact Delaware State Police CPS program via their online request form. (news.delaware.gov)
Free and Low‑Cost Children’s Clothing (By Referral or Walk‑In)
Start here
Friendship House Clothing Bank (statewide referrals): 1603 Jessup St, Wilmington. Phone 302‑654‑1390. Provides free clothing (infant through adult) via agency referrals and supports the School Uniform Initiative across New Castle County. Ask your case manager, school, or FH Empowerment Center for a referral. (mapquest.com, guidestar.org)
- Walk‑in option in Wilmington: St. Patrick’s Center Clothes Closet, 107 E 14th St, weekdays 9 a.m.–1 p.m.; phone 302‑652‑6219. (stpatrickscenter.org)
- YWCA Delaware (donations/support for families in crisis): Home‑Life Management Center, 709 N Madison St, Wilmington; contact through site for availability of diapers/wipes and baby items as donations allow. (ywcade.org)
- Sunday Breakfast Mission/Urban Vintage Thrift: Offers clothing vouchers to shelter guests and program participants; retail thrift also sells low‑cost children’s items. Call 877‑306‑HOME or the store line 302‑477‑7495 for details. (sundaybreakfastmission.org)
- School uniform help: Friendship House’s uniform initiative works with multiple schools; ask your school office if your child’s school partners with FH for uniforms. (prweb.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for “baby clothing” or “children’s clothing” resources by ZIP; many pantries and churches keep small closets. Goodwill stores are low‑cost statewide; ask your case worker if voucher partnerships are available in your area. (delaware211.org, goodwillde.org)
Where to Go by County (selected resources)
| County | WIC contact | Car seat fitting | Clothing/diapers |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Castle | 302‑283‑7540 (Hudson/NE/Claymont/West End) or mobile lines on WIC site; email nccwic@delaware.gov | Wilmington DMV 302‑434‑3234 (text 302‑256‑1123) | Friendship House Clothing Bank 302‑654‑1390; Bayard House diaper bank 302‑655‑9624 |
| Kent | 302‑424‑7220; email kentwic@delaware.gov | Dover DMV 302‑744‑2749 (text 302‑387‑2324) | Food Bank of DE Healthy Pantry Center (Milford) info online; check 2‑1‑1 for clothing closets |
| Sussex | 302‑424‑7220; email sussexwic@delaware.gov | Sussex mobile fitting 302‑242‑7107 | Call 2‑1‑1 for local diaper/clothing closets; check church and pantry partners by ZIP |
Sources: WIC clinic contacts; OHS fitting station numbers; Delaware 2‑1‑1. (dhss.delaware.gov, ohs.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov, delaware211.org)
Tables You Can Use While You Apply
1) WIC income guidelines (monthly), July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026
| Household size | 185% FPG monthly |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,413 |
| 2 | $3,261 |
| 3 | $4,109 |
| 4 | $4,957 |
| 5 | $5,805 |
| 6 | $6,653 |
| 7 | $7,501 |
| 8 | $8,349 |
| Each add’l | +$848 |
Source: USDA FNS WIC IEGs 2025–26 (90 FR 11598). (federalregister.gov)
2) SNAP (Food Supplement Program) — Delaware FY 2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025)
| HH size | Max gross monthly (200% FPL) | Max allotment |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,510 | $292 |
| 2 | $3,408 | $536 |
| 3 | $4,304 | $768 |
| 4 | $5,200 | $975 |
| 5 | $6,098 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $6,994 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $7,890 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $8,788 | $1,756 |
| + | +$898 | +$220 |
Sources: USDA FY 2025 COLA; Delaware DSS SNAP table. (fns.usda.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
3) Car seat fitting station contacts
| Location | Office | Mobile | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilmington DMV (New Castle) | 302‑434‑3234 | 302‑256‑1123 | Appointment required |
| Dover DMV (Kent) | 302‑744‑2749 | 302‑387‑2324 | Appointment required |
| Sussex County mobile | — | 302‑242‑7107 | By appointment only |
Source: Office of Highway Safety (OHS) fitting station page. (ohs.delaware.gov)
4) Cribs for Kids® (safe sleep) — referral info
| What you need | Who refers | Eligibility quick check | Program contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pack ‘n Play + safe‑sleep education | Nurse, social worker, or provider | No safe crib at home and due within 6 weeks or infant under 12 months; financial need | 302‑255‑1743; CDRC@delaware.gov |
Source: Delaware Courts — Maternal & Child Death Review Commission. (courts.delaware.gov)
5) Where to ask for children’s clothing
| Site | County | How access works | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friendship House Clothing Bank | New Castle | Agency referral; uniforms via schools | 302‑654‑1390 |
| St. Patrick’s Center Clothes Closet | New Castle | Walk‑in weekdays 9–1 | 302‑652‑6219 |
| YWCA Delaware HLMC | New Castle | Donations vary; call first | — |
Sources: FH Clothing Bank, St. Patrick’s Center, YWCA Wilmington. (mapquest.com, stpatrickscenter.org, ywcade.org)
Real‑world example
Case example: A Dover mom delivered in July. Her plan activated the Medicaid postpartum diaper benefit, delivering 80 diapers/week plus wipes for 12 weeks. She applied for WIC (Kent line 302‑424‑7220) and SNAP via ASSIST; she was approved for 536∗∗inSNAPforahouseholdoftwoandreceivedWICbenefitsincluding∗∗536** in SNAP for a household of two and received WIC benefits including **47 monthly fruit/vegetable CVB and infant foods/formula as prescribed. A home‑visiting CHW connected her to a Pack ‘n Play through Cribs for Kids after a nurse referral, and to a clothing closet for a newborn bundle. Sources for amounts and programs are provided in the sections above. (news.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov, fns.usda.gov, courts.delaware.gov)
How to Apply: Step‑by‑Step
SNAP (Food Benefits)
- Apply online: ASSIST portal (link above).
- Documents to upload: ID, SSN (if you have one), proof of address, income (pay stubs/letter), rent/utility bills, child care costs.
- Interview: Phone interview is typical; answer calls from 866‑843‑7212 or your caseworker.
- Decision timeline: 30 days; expedited within 7 days if you meet very low income/asset criteria. (fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your local State Service Center for help submitting missing documents and ask about emergency food via Food Bank of Delaware partners while you wait. (fbd.org)
WIC
- Book an appointment: Use county WIC phone/email above.
- Bring: ID, address, income proof, pregnancy proof or child. Walk‑ins for nutrition services are not accepted. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- What you receive: eWIC card with benefits for formula/infant foods and CVB amounts (children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, breastfeeding $52). (fns.usda.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to be placed on the cancellation list; try another nearby clinic day from the statewide schedule; ask your clinic about temporary formula resources if needed. (dhss.delaware.gov)
TANF (Cash)
- Apply: ASSIST.
- Have ready: IDs, SSNs (if any), proof of pregnancy or the child, proof of income and child care costs.
- Know the numbers: Payment standards start at 201∗∗forone,∗∗201** for one, **270 for two, $338 for three, and so on. (dhss.delaware.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the State Service Center about emergency assistance referrals and the “Needy Family Fund.” (dhss.delaware.gov)
Application Checklist (print or screenshot)
- Photo ID and SSN (if you have one) for you and your child(ren)
- Proof of Delaware address (lease, utility bill, shelter letter)
- Proof of pregnancy or baby’s birth (doctor note, hospital record)
- Proof of all income (pay stubs, benefit letters, child support history)
- Monthly costs (rent, utilities, child care receipts)
- Medical bills or special dietary/medical documentation (if applies, to count deductions or WIC needs)
- A working phone and voicemail set‑up (for caseworker calls and interviews)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the interview call: Many cases are closed for “no interview.” Save 866‑843‑7212 and unknown Delaware numbers to your contacts, set voicemail, and call back immediately if you miss it. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Not reporting full expenses: Rent, utilities, child care, and some medical costs can raise your SNAP amount. Submit every bill. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Skipping proof of pregnancy for WIC: Bring a doctor’s note if you’re pregnant but don’t have a newborn yet. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Waiting to ask for a crib or car seat help: Cribs for Kids referrals require timing (due within 6 weeks or infant under 12 months). OHS fittings are by appointment. Book early. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Assuming diapers are covered beyond 12 weeks postpartum: The Delaware Medicaid diaper benefit currently focuses on the early postpartum period. Line up diaper bank resources for after week 12. (news.delaware.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Inclusive WIC and home‑visiting programs: WIC welcomes all eligible parents; Westside Family Healthcare serves all families and offers bilingual support. Ask for a peer counselor who understands your family makeup. Phone: 302‑224‑6800 (New Castle), 302‑678‑4622 (Kent/Sussex). (westsidehealth.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for disabled children: SNAP allows medical deductions that can raise benefits; ask your worker. Ask WIC for accommodations during appointments. For behavioral health for children, call DSCYF Info & Referral 302‑633‑2571. (kids.delaware.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: Ask VA case managers about emergency baby supplies and request referrals to Friendship House Clothing Bank (302‑654‑1390) and Food Bank partner pantries in your area. (mapquest.com, fbd.org)
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can get WIC regardless of immigration status. Ask for language access at all DHSS offices (phone interpreters are available). (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Tribal citizens: WIC and SNAP rules apply equally; ask about Farmers’ Market Nutrition Programs in season. WIC provides CVB amounts (children 26∗∗;pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**; pregnant/postpartum **47; breastfeeding $52). (fns.usda.gov)
- Rural single moms with limited transport: Use mobile/text numbers for WIC scheduling; ask about tele‑appointments when available, and look for nearby pantry partners via 2‑1‑1. For Sussex car seat checks, use the mobile fitting 302‑242‑7107. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Single fathers: All programs above (WIC for children under 5, SNAP, TANF for relatives) apply if you meet eligibility. WIC is for caregivers, not just mothers. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Language access: You can request an interpreter for all DHSS services. WIC lines list Spanish contacts; Delaware Relay is available by dialing 711. (news.delaware.gov)
Seasonal help and extras
- Food Bank of Delaware Backpack Program: If your school participates, children receive weekend food; ask your school social worker. (fbd.org)
- Pop‑up diaper/clothing events: Follow county health departments, Westside Family Healthcare, and Friendship House for drives. Use 2‑1‑1 to find scheduled events by ZIP. (westsidehealth.org, delaware211.org)
Timelines you can expect
- SNAP: 7 days (expedited) or 30 days (standard). (fns.usda.gov)
- WIC: Appointment availability varies; once certified, benefits load quickly to eWIC. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Medicaid diaper benefit: Available 12 weeks postpartum; activation depends on your plan’s process. (news.delaware.gov)
- Cribs for Kids: Timing depends on referral and home education scheduling; request as soon as you know you need a crib. (courts.delaware.gov)
10 Delaware‑specific FAQs
- Do I have to be a U.S. citizen to get WIC?
Answer: No. Caregivers and children who meet income and nutrition risk can get WIC regardless of immigration status. (dhss.delaware.gov) - How much produce money does WIC give each month?
Answer: FY 2025 CVB amounts are children 26∗∗,pregnant/postpartum∗∗26**, pregnant/postpartum **47, fully/mostly breastfeeding $52 through September 30, 2025. (fns.usda.gov) - What are the WIC income limits for 3 people?
Answer: For July 1, 2025–June 30, 2026, monthly $4,109 (185% FPG). (federalregister.gov) - How much SNAP can a family of 4 get right now in Delaware?
Answer: Maximum $975/month (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (fns.usda.gov) - What’s the Delaware car seat law for toddlers?
Answer: Under age 2 and 30 lbs rear‑facing; under age 4 and 40 lbs harness; then booster until the seat’s height/weight max. First offense sends you to OHS for a fitting. (ohs.delaware.gov) - Can I get a free crib?
Answer: Yes—through Cribs for Kids with a professional referral if you lack a safe crib and meet criteria (due within 6 weeks or baby under 12 months). (courts.delaware.gov) - Does Delaware Medicaid cover diapers for infants?
Answer: Postpartum benefit provides up to 80 diapers + wipes weekly for 12 weeks postpartum for eligible members; it does not cover diapers for the full first two years. (news.delaware.gov) - What’s the TANF cash amount for a family of 3?
Answer: Payment standard $338/month (FFY 2025). Final benefits depend on income and deductions. (dhss.delaware.gov) - Where can I get a car seat checked in Sussex County?
Answer: OHS mobile fitting station by appointment at 302‑242‑7107. (ohs.delaware.gov) - Where do I go for free children’s clothing in Wilmington?
Answer: Friendship House Clothing Bank (302‑654‑1390) via referral, or St. Patrick’s Center Clothes Closet (walk‑in) at 302‑652‑6219. (mapquest.com, stpatrickscenter.org)
What to do if you’re still short after using every program
- Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for diaper/clothing resources in your ZIP and hours for that week.
- Ask your pediatric clinic social worker for a written referral to a diaper bank or Cribs for Kids if you meet criteria.
- Use ASSIST to report any income drop or new expenses to your SNAP worker—your benefit might increase. (dhss.delaware.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
How we research: We use primary sources—Delaware DHSS, USDA FNS, Delaware Courts, and established nonprofits. We verify links and phone numbers and cross‑check state and federal program rules before publishing, in line with our editorial standards. See our full standards here: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy.
E‑E‑A‑T and YMYL alignment: We cite official sources, use current amounts and timelines, and include plain‑language safety guidance.
Maintenance schedule: We review Delaware guides at least every 8 months, monitor policy changes, and correct verified errors promptly.
Last verified: September 2025. Next review: April 2026.
Corrections and feedback: Email info@asinglemother.org. We respond within 48 hours, and urgent corrections are updated within 24 hours as per our policy page.
Disclaimer
Information accuracy: We link to official sources and keep amounts current as of September 2025, but program rules, dollar amounts, and contact details can change at any time. Always verify with the relevant agency before you rely on this guide.
No legal or medical advice: This resource is for general information. For medical or legal decisions, speak to a licensed professional.
Security and privacy: Do not share personal case numbers, SSNs, or medical details in public forums. Use official portals (ASSIST, WIC contacts) and secure phone lines listed above.
Sources (selected)
- SNAP FY 2025 COLA and maximums: USDA FNS policy memo and attachment (effective Oct 1, 2024). Delaware DSS SNAP income/benefit table. (fns.usda.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
- WIC FY 2025 CVB amounts: USDA FNS WIC CVB policy (effective through Sep 30, 2025). (fns.usda.gov)
- WIC income guidelines (185% FPG) for 2025–26: Federal Register and USDA FNS memo (effective July 1, 2025). (federalregister.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Delaware WIC eligibility and clinic contacts: Delaware DPH WIC pages and office locations. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
- Delaware TANF standards (FFY 2025): DHSS DSS TANF page. (dhss.delaware.gov)
- Delaware Medicaid postpartum diaper/meal benefit: State news release (June 3, 2024). (news.delaware.gov)
- Cribs for Kids (Delaware): Maternal & Child Death Review Commission program page. (courts.delaware.gov)
- Car seat law and fitting station contacts: Delaware OHS pages and Safe Kids Delaware. (ohs.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
- Clothing resources: Friendship House Clothing Bank; St. Patrick’s Center; Delaware 2‑1‑1 clothing assistance page. (mapquest.com, stpatrickscenter.org, delaware211.org)
- Food Bank of Delaware Healthy Pantry Centers: Official pantry pages. (fbd.org)
If you find anything out of date or a link that doesn’t work, email info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly.
🏛️More Delaware Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Delaware
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