Menu
delaware

Grants for Single Mothers in Delaware

Delaware Single Mother’s Guide to Benefits, Grants, and Support Programs (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Summary for Busy Moms

Delaware offers 20+ assistance programs for single mothers. Emergency help available within 1-7 days. Key programs include food assistance for families earning under $4,108/month, cash assistance up to $347/month for families of three, and comprehensive healthcare coverage.


Top Programs by Urgency:

  • Emergency Food: SNAP benefits up to $768/month for family of 3
  • Emergency Cash: TANF up to $347/month for family of 3 with shelter costs
  • Emergency Housing: Section 8 vouchers and emergency assistance
  • Free Healthcare: Medicaid for families earning under $3,064/month (family of 3)
  • Childcare Help: Purchase of Care assistance for working parents

If You Need Help Today

If you’re facing an immediate crisis, here are three steps you can take right now:

  1. Call 2-1-1 – Free 24/7 help finding emergency assistance for housing, food, utilities, and more
  2. Contact Food Bank of Delaware at (302) 292-1305 for emergency food assistance
  3. Apply for Emergency SNAP at Delaware ASSIST – you can get benefits within 7 days if you qualify for expedited service

Main Points

Being a single mom in Delaware comes with real challenges, but you’re not alone. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey, Delaware has approximately 42,000 single-parent households, with about 78% headed by single mothers. The state recognizes these challenges and offers comprehensive support.

What you need to know:

  • Real help exists – Delaware’s TANF program provides cash assistance, and SNAP covers food costs for eligible families
  • Emergency help is available – You can get food assistance within days and utility help within weeks
  • Healthcare is covered – Delaware expanded Medicaid, covering families earning up to 138% of federal poverty level
  • Childcare support matters – Purchase of Care helps working parents afford quality childcare
  • The system takes time – Some programs have waiting lists, but don’t let that stop you from applying

Reality Check: Delaware’s TANF benefits are modest – $347 maximum for a family of three with housing costs. You’ll likely need multiple programs to make ends meet, but the support is there when you qualify.

Emergency Cash and Basic Needs

When you need help paying bills or buying food, these programs can provide immediate relief.

Cash Assistance (Delaware’s TANF Program)

According to Delaware DSS, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) provides temporary cash benefits and supportive services to Delaware’s neediest families with children.

Current benefit amounts (effective August 2025 per Delaware regulations):

  • $347 maximum monthly benefit for family of three with shelter costs (rent/mortgage)
  • $278 maximum monthly benefit for family of three without shelter costs
  • Lower amounts based on family income and size

Income limits (gross monthly income before deductions):

Family Size Monthly Gross Income Limit
1 person $743
2 people $1,000
3 people $1,257
4 people $1,514

How benefits are calculated: Delaware subtracts $90 for work-related expenses, up to $200 for child care costs, and the first $50 of child support received to determine your net income. Your final benefit amount depends on this net income calculation.

Important Time Limit: Delaware limits TANF benefits to 36 months (3 years) in most cases. However, families with hardships may qualify for an additional 12 months.

Requirements:

  • Must be U.S. citizen or qualified legal resident
  • Must live in Delaware
  • Must have children under 19 (or under 20 if in school)
  • Must participate in work activities for 30 hours per week
  • Must have assets under program limits

How to apply:

  1. Apply online at Delaware ASSIST
  2. Call (855) 643-8804 to request paper application
  3. Visit local DSS office (find yours here)

Processing time: Up to 45 days from application date

Reality Check: According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Delaware’s TANF benefits are among the lowest in the country. The maximum benefit of $347 for a family of three is only about 15% of the federal poverty level.

SNAP (Food Assistance)

According to Delaware DSS, Delaware’s Food Supplement Program (SNAP) enables low-income families to buy food that provides better nutrition.

Maximum benefit amounts (based on federal USDA guidelines for 2025):

  • 1 person: $292/month
  • 2 people: $536/month
  • 3 people: $768/month
  • 4 people: $975/month

Income limits (gross monthly income before taxes and deductions per USDA SNAP guidelines):

Family Size Monthly Gross Income Limit Annual Gross Income Limit
1 person $2,414 $28,970
2 people $3,260 $39,110
3 people $4,108 $49,300
4 people $4,956 $59,490

How SNAP benefits work: Your actual benefit amount depends on your net income after deductions. For example, a family of three with $1,500 gross monthly income might receive around $600 in SNAP benefits after standard deductions are applied.

Delaware specific features:

  • No resource test for most households that meet 200% of Federal Poverty Level maximum gross monthly income limit
  • Automatic eligibility if receiving TANF, General Assistance, or SSI
  • Can buy groceries online with your EBT card

How to apply:

  • Online: Delaware ASSIST
  • Phone: (855) 643-8804
  • In person: Local DSS office

Emergency SNAP: If you qualify for expedited service, you can get benefits within 7 days if you have less than $150 in monthly income and $100 or less in bank accounts.

Reality Check: Most families receive less than the maximum amount based on their income and expenses.

Emergency Assistance

According to Delaware DHSS, Emergency Assistance provides funds for rent, utilities, and emergency shelter to help maintain self-sufficiency and prevent homelessness.

What it covers:

  • Rent payments to prevent eviction
  • Utility bills to prevent shut-offs
  • Emergency shelter costs
  • Other critical needs on case-by-case basis

Requirements:

  • Must receive or be eligible for Cash Assistance (TANF, GA, SSI) or certain Medicaid programs
  • Emergency must result from unforeseen circumstances beyond your control
  • Assistance limited to once per 12-month period in most cases

How to apply: Contact your local Division of State Service Centers (DSSC) office for assessment and application.

Food Help Beyond SNAP

Food Bank of Delaware

According to their official website, the Food Bank of Delaware is the state’s largest hunger-relief organization, distributing food through 500+ partner agencies.

Services available:

  • Emergency food boxes (3-5 day supply)
  • Fresh produce distributions
  • Mobile food pantries
  • Kids Cafe (after-school meals)
  • Backpack program (weekend food for kids)
  • Senior food programs

Main distribution locations:

  • Newark: 222 Lake Drive, Mon-Fri 9 AM – 4 PM
  • Milford: 24 Bennett Street, Mon-Fri 9 AM – 4 PM

Contact information:

  • Main number: (302) 292-1305
  • Find food locations: fbd.org

Reality Check: You’ll need to show ID and provide household information. No income requirements for most programs, but some government commodity programs require proof of Delaware residency.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

According to Delaware DPH, WIC provides nutrition assistance to pregnant women and children under 5.

Who qualifies:

  • Pregnant, breastfeeding, or postpartum women
  • Children under age 5
  • Income at or below 185% of Federal Poverty Level ($4,108/month for family of 3)
  • Must be at “nutritional risk” (determined by health screening)

Benefits include:

  • Monthly food packages with items like milk, eggs, cereal, peanut butter, baby formula
  • Nutrition education and counseling
  • Breastfeeding support and breast pump loans
  • Referrals to healthcare and social services

How to apply:

  • Call Delaware WIC: (302) 744-4595
  • Apply in person at local WIC office
  • Find locations at dhss.delaware.gov

Healthcare for You and Your Kids

Delaware Medicaid

According to Delaware DMMA, Delaware’s Medicaid program provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families.

Income limits for families (138% of Federal Poverty Level per federal expansion):

Household Size Monthly Income Limit Annual Income Limit
1 person $1,803 $21,636
2 people $2,433 $29,196
3 people $3,064 $36,756
4 people $3,694 $44,316

Coverage includes:

  • Doctor visits and specialist care
  • Prescription medications
  • Mental health and substance abuse treatment
  • Hospital and emergency room care
  • Preventive care including mammograms and cancer screenings
  • Postpartum coverage extended to 12 months after birth for pregnant women

For children (Delaware Healthy Children Program): Children 18 and under can get coverage if family income is up to 217% of Federal Poverty Level.

How to apply:

  • Online: Delaware ASSIST
  • Phone: 1-800-372-2022
  • In person: Local DSS office

Processing time: Usually 30 days or less

Emergency Medicaid: Available for emergency medical conditions regardless of immigration status

Childcare Help While You Work or Go to School

Purchase of Care (POC) Program

According to Delaware DSS, the Purchase of Care program provides support for families to pay for childcare so caretakers can work or attend training.

Who qualifies:

  • Working parents (minimum work requirements apply)
  • Parents in approved education/training programs
  • Family’s gross monthly income must be at or below 185% of Federal Poverty Level

Income limits:

Family Size Monthly Income Limit (185% FPL)
1 parent, 1 child $2,518
1 parent, 2 children $3,150
1 parent, 3 children $3,781
1 parent, 4 children $4,413

What you pay:

  • Co-payments based on income (families pay a portion)
  • If family income increases to between 185% and 200% of FPL, family receives graduated phase-out for 12 months

Approved providers:

  • Licensed childcare centers
  • Licensed family childcare homes
  • Approved relative care (in some cases)
  • Before/after school programs

How to apply:

  • Online: Delaware ASSIST
  • Phone: (855) 643-8804
  • Call child care specialist: 1-800-734-2388

Reality Check: About 30 percent of Purchase of Care funding comes from federal dollars, and the state is working to increase rates based on updated market studies. Waiting lists may exist in some areas.

Head Start and Early Head Start

Free comprehensive early childhood programs for low-income families.

Head Start (Ages 3-5):

  • Free preschool education
  • Full-day or part-day options
  • Meals and snacks included
  • Health and dental screenings
  • Family support services

Early Head Start (Birth to 3):

  • Childcare for infants and toddlers
  • Home visiting programs
  • Pregnant women services
  • Parenting education

Income requirements:

  • Family income at or below federal poverty guidelines — about $25,820 a year for a single mother of two
  • Automatic qualification for families receiving TANF, SNAP, or SSI

How to apply:

  • Call Head Start Collaboration Office at 302-739-4667
  • Contact local Head Start programs directly

Housing Help That Works

Finding safe, affordable housing is challenging for single mothers. Here are programs that can help.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

According to the Delaware State Housing Authority, Section 8 provides rental assistance to low-income families.

Big News: Delaware’s five public housing authorities reopened their waitlists on February 3, 2025, for the first time in many years

Income limits (50% of Area Median Income):

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $34,350
2 people $39,250
3 people $44,150
4 people $49,050

How to apply:

  • Apply at Delaware.AffordableHousing.com
  • This new system allows you to apply to all five housing authorities with one application
  • Applicants who reside in Kent or Sussex County have priority on the waiting list

Moving to Work Program: Most residents, except elderly and disabled, receive subsidies for maximum of seven years while participating in mandatory self-sufficiency program

Reality Check: Even with the reopened waiting lists, expect significant wait times. The centralized system is a major improvement, but demand remains high.

Emergency Rental Assistance

Several programs can help if you’re behind on rent or facing eviction.

Delaware Emergency Assistance:

Nonprofit assistance:

  • Call 2-1-1 for local emergency rental programs
  • Many nonprofits provide one-time emergency assistance
  • Churches and faith-based organizations often have emergency funds

Tax Credits and Federal Benefits (Often Overlooked!)

Many single mothers miss these programs that provide significant annual income.

Federal Tax Credits

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

  • What it provides: Up to $8,046 for families with 3+ children (2025 tax year), according to IRS Revenue Procedure 2024-40
  • Who qualifies: Working families with income under $59,899 (single filers with 3+ children) for 2025
  • How to claim: File tax return with IRS Form 1040, even if you don’t owe taxes

Income Limits for EITC (2025 Tax Year):

Children Single Filer Income Limit Maximum Credit
1 child $47,915 $4,213
2 children $53,057 $6,960
3+ children $59,899 $8,046

Child Tax Credit (CTC)

  • What it provides: Up to $2,000 per child under 17, with up to $1,700 refundable per IRS Topic 602
  • Who qualifies: Single mothers with income under $200,000

Contact for Free Tax Help: IRS VITA Program at 1-800-906-9887

Support for All Types of Single Parent Families

Single Fathers

Most programs in this guide also serve single fathers raising children alone. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, single father households have increased by 60% since 1990.

Available programs:

  • SNAP (food assistance) – same eligibility and benefits
  • TANF (cash assistance) – same income limits and requirements
  • Medicaid (healthcare) – full family coverage available
  • Child support services – help collecting from other parent
  • Housing assistance – Section 8 and emergency rental help
  • Childcare assistance – same work/school requirements

Additional considerations for single fathers:

  • May face additional scrutiny in some programs historically designed for mothers
  • Encouraged to apply for all programs despite any perceived barriers
  • Legal aid available if discrimination is encountered

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren

TANF eligibility considerations:

  • Income limits may be more generous when grandparent applies only for grandchild
  • Grandparent’s needs not included in benefit calculation
  • May qualify even if grandparent receives Social Security

Kinship care support:

  • Kinship Care Program provides assistance for relative caregivers during 90-day transition period when child first moves into non-parent caregiver’s home
  • Assistance with clothing, shelter, health, safety, and educational supplies

LGBTQ+ Single Parents

All Delaware state programs serve LGBTQ+ parents without discrimination.

Legal protections:

  • Delaware law prohibits discrimination in state programs based on sexual orientation or gender identity
  • Same-sex couples eligible for all family programs
  • Comprehensive anti-discrimination protections

Rural Delaware Families

Additional challenges in rural areas:

  • Limited public transportation options
  • Fewer service providers and longer travel distances to offices
  • Limited internet access for online applications
  • Fewer childcare options, especially for non-traditional work hours

Rural-specific resources:

  • Mobile services: Some WIC clinics offer mobile services in rural areas
  • Telehealth: Medicaid covers telehealth appointments, reducing travel needs
  • Extended office hours: Some DSS offices in rural counties offer evening or weekend hours by appointment
  • 2-1-1: Especially important for finding local resources and transportation assistance
  • Home visits: Some programs offer home visits for families unable to travel to offices
  • Delaware Transit Corporation: Provides rural bus service; call (302) 652-DART for routes and schedules

Resources by Region

New Castle County

Main DSS office: (302) 255-9500 Housing Authority: New Castle County Housing Authority – newcastlede.gov Energy Assistance: (302) 654-9295 Food Resources: Food Bank of Delaware Newark – (302) 292-1305

Kent County

Main DSS office: (302) 739-4793 Energy Assistance: (302) 674-1782 Housing resources: Contact Delaware.AffordableHousing.com Local resources: Dover area has multiple nonprofit assistance programs

Sussex County

Main DSS office: (302) 856-5400 Energy Assistance: (302) 856-6310 Housing resources: Priority placement on Section 8 waiting lists Food Resources: Food Bank of Delaware Milford – (302) 292-1305

How to Apply: Your 4-Week Action Plan

Week 1: Immediate Emergency Needs

Day 1-2:

  1. Apply for SNAP at Delaware ASSIST
  2. Call 2-1-1 for immediate crisis resources in your area
  3. Contact Food Bank of Delaware: (302) 292-1305 for emergency food

Day 3-4: 4. Apply for Medicaid – same application as SNAP 5. Call utility companies if behind on bills – many have hardship programs 6. Contact local churches/nonprofits for emergency assistance

Day 5-7: 7. Gather required documents (see list below) 8. Follow up on SNAP application if no response within 7 days 9. Apply for WIC if you have children under 5

Week 2: Cash Assistance and Support Programs

Day 8-10:

  1. Apply for Cash Assistance (TANF) through Delaware ASSIST
  2. Apply for LIHEAP energy assistance – contact local number by county
  3. Contact child support services if applicable

Day 11-14: 4. Apply for childcare assistance if working or in school 5. Research Head Start programs for children 3-5 6. Visit local food pantries beyond Food Bank for ongoing support

Week 3: Housing and Long-term Planning

Day 15-17:

  1. Apply for Section 8 at Delaware.AffordableHousing.com
  2. Contact emergency housing if facing homelessness
  3. Research transitional housing programs

Day 18-21: 4. File taxes or contact VITA program for EITC/Child Tax Credit: 1-800-906-9887 5. Apply for additional local emergency assistance programs 6. Contact legal aid if needed

Week 4: Follow-up and Ongoing Support

Day 22-24:

  1. Follow up on all pending applications
  2. Create ongoing plan for managing benefits and requirements
  3. Connect with local support groups

Day 25-28: 4. Review all benefit letters and requirements 5. Set up calendar reminders for recertification dates 6. Build local resource network

Documents You Need (Prepare These First!)

Keep copies of these documents ready for all applications:

Personal identification:

  • Delaware driver’s license or state ID
  • Social Security cards for all family members
  • Birth certificates for all children
  • Immigration documents (if applicable)

Income and employment:

  • Pay stubs from last 30 days
  • Unemployment benefits statement
  • Self-employment records
  • Child support payment records
  • Any other income documentation

Housing and expenses:

  • Current lease or rent receipts
  • Utility bills (electric, gas, water, phone)
  • Childcare payment receipts

Financial information:

  • Bank statements for last 3 months (all accounts)
  • Vehicle registration and insurance
  • Medical bills and expenses

What to Do When You’re Denied

Don’t give up! Most denials can be resolved.

Common Denial Reasons

Missing information:

  • Incomplete application
  • Missing required documents
  • Failed to attend required interview

Processing errors:

  • Agency made calculation mistake
  • Documents lost or misfiled
  • System/computer errors

Your Legal Rights

Appeal process:

  • 30-day deadline: You have 30 days from denial date to request appeal
  • Fair hearing: Right to present your case to impartial hearing officer
  • Legal representation: Right to bring advocate or attorney

How to appeal:

  1. Request appeal in writing within 30 days
  2. Submit to address on denial notice
  3. Attend hearing or participate by phone
  4. Receive written decision within 60 days

Getting Help with Appeals

Free legal assistance:

  • Community Legal Aid Society: (302) 575-0660
  • Legal Services Corporation of Delaware: (302) 478-8850
  • Delaware Volunteer Legal Services: (302) 478-8850

Common Questions Single Mothers Ask (FAQs)

Q: Can I get help if I’m working? A: Yes! Most programs allow working families to qualify:

  • SNAP: Up to 200% of poverty level ($4,108/month gross income for family of 3)
  • Medicaid: Up to 138% of poverty level ($3,064/month gross income for family of 3)
  • Childcare assistance: Up to 185% of poverty level ($3,781/month gross income for family of 3)

Q: How long do applications take to process? A: Processing times vary by program (as of August 2025):

  • SNAP: 7-30 days (7 days if emergency qualified)
  • TANF: Up to 45 days from complete application
  • Medicaid: Usually 30 days or less
  • Housing vouchers: Applications processed when slots open; current wait times vary by county
  • Childcare assistance: 30-45 days if all documents provided

Q: Can I apply for multiple programs at once? A: Yes! Delaware ASSIST allows you to apply for SNAP, TANF, and Medicaid with one application. You can also apply for other programs separately at the same time.

Q: What if I get denied? A: You have the right to appeal any denial within 30 days. Common reasons for denial include missing documents or income calculation errors. Contact legal aid for help with appeals.

Q: Do I have to pay anything back? A: Most programs don’t require repayment:

  • Never repay: SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, LIHEAP, tax credits
  • Overpayments: If you receive too much due to unreported income changes, you may need to repay the difference

Q: What if my English is limited? A: Language assistance is available at no cost:

  • All state programs provide free interpreters in Spanish and other languages
  • Request interpreter when scheduling appointments (give 48-hour notice when possible)
  • 2-1-1 has bilingual operators available 24/7
  • Many application forms available in Spanish
  • Translation services available for document review

Q: Can I get help paying for school while receiving benefits? A: Yes, education is strongly encouraged and supported:

  • Federal Pell Grants: Up to $7,395 per academic year (2025-26) for eligible students
  • TANF work requirement: Full-time education/training counts as work activity
  • Childcare assistance: Available for parents in approved education programs
  • Delaware Scholarship Incentive Program: Need-based grants up to $2,200 annually
  • Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA): Job training programs with potential for tuition assistance

How benefits work with school: You can typically receive SNAP, Medicaid, and childcare assistance while attending school. TANF may continue if education counts toward work requirements.

Emergency Resources and Crisis Numbers

Immediate Crisis Help

Food emergency:

  • Food Bank of Delaware: (302) 292-1305
  • 2-1-1: Find local food pantries and soup kitchens
  • Emergency SNAP: Apply at assist.dhss.delaware.gov

Housing emergency (eviction/homelessness):

  • 2-1-1: Emergency shelter and rental assistance
  • Delaware State Service Centers: Emergency housing assistance
  • Local emergency assistance: Contact DSS office

Utilities shut-off:

  • LIHEAP Crisis: Contact by county – New Castle: (302) 654-9295, Kent: (302) 674-1782, Sussex: (302) 856-6310
  • 2-1-1: Local utility assistance programs
  • Utility company hardship programs: Call your provider directly

Medical emergency:

  • 911: Life-threatening emergencies
  • Emergency Medicaid: Available regardless of immigration status
  • Community health centers: Call 2-1-1 for locations

Crisis and Mental Health Support

Crisis intervention:

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • Delaware Crisis Hotline: 1-800-652-2929

Domestic violence:

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
  • Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence: (302) 658-2958
  • Local shelters: Call 2-1-1 for immediate shelter options

Resources and Important Phone Numbers

Statewide Resources

Primary contact numbers:

  • 2-1-1: Information and referral service (24/7) – Your first call for any crisis
  • Delaware ASSIST: (855) 643-8804
  • Delaware DSS: (302) 255-9500

Application and benefits:

  • SNAP/TANF/Medicaid applications: assist.dhss.delaware.gov
  • Child support services: 1-800-464-4357
  • WIC program: (302) 744-4595
  • Head Start: (302) 739-4667

Emergency Numbers

Immediate crisis:

  • Emergency services: 911
  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233

Food assistance:

  • Food Bank of Delaware: (302) 292-1305

Housing crisis:

  • Emergency housing: Contact local DSS office
  • 2-1-1: Housing crisis assistance

Legal and Advocacy Help

Free legal assistance:

  • Community Legal Aid Society: (302) 575-0660
  • Legal Services Corporation of Delaware: (302) 478-8850
  • Delaware Volunteer Legal Services: (302) 478-8850

Benefits advocacy:

  • Delaware Protection and Advocacy: (302) 575-0660
  • Local Community Action Programs: Case managers often help with applications

Disclaimer

Important Notice About Information Currency

Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts change frequently due to federal and state policy updates, funding changes, and legislative action. All information in this guide was compiled and verified using official government sources as of August 2025, but policies may have changed since publication.

Verification Requirements:

  • Always verify current information directly with the relevant agency before making decisions
  • Contact program offices for the most up-to-date eligibility requirements and benefit amounts
  • Check official websites for any recent policy changes or updates

Limitations:

  • This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal, financial, or benefits counseling advice
  • Individual circumstances vary and may affect program eligibility
  • Processing times and benefit amounts may differ from those listed
  • Some programs may have waiting lists or limited funding not reflected in this guide

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Delaware guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Delaware Division of Social Services, USDA, IRS, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Delaware Division of Social Services, USDA, HHS, and Delaware State Housing Authority sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

🏛️More Delaware Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Delaware

Related Posts