With the cost of living on the rise, many individuals and families are in need of an emergency rental assistance program. Delaware offers programs and resources to help residents maintain stable housing and avoid eviction.

Emergency rental assistance programs in Delaware help ensure that individuals and families can stay in their homes during times of financial hardship. This guide provides an overview of the various programs and resources available across the state of Delaware in 2024.

Emergency Assistance Funds

The state of Delaware provides emergency assistance funds to help low-income Delaware residents cover the cost of rent and utilities. Individuals and families seeking emergency assistance funds from the state of Delaware must:

Receive or be eligible for cash assistance such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), General Assistance (GA), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or certain Medicaid programs.
Show that the housing emergency was the result of unforeseen circumstances that were outside the recipients’ control.
Be able to maintain their housing after the emergency is addressed.

This program aims to provide a safety net for residents who are facing temporary setbacks, ensuring they do not lose their homes due to circumstances beyond their control.

Eviction Defense Project

Facing eviction can be a daunting and stressful experience. Delaware residents who are facing eviction can consult the resources provided by the Eviction Defense Project. These resources include legal aid as well as financial support to keep Delaware residents housed. Legal aid services can help residents understand their rights and navigate the eviction process, potentially preventing displacement.

The Eviction Defense Project is an essential resource for those who need immediate assistance and advice. By providing both legal and financial support, the project helps residents avoid eviction and stabilize their living situations.

New Castle County Resources

Individuals and families seeking emergency rental assistance in New Castle County can visit one of the following service centers to confirm their eligibility and apply:

Appoquinimink State Service Center (Middletown)
Belvedere State Service Center (Wilmington)
Claymont State Service Center
DeLaWarr State Service Center (New Castle)
Floyd I. Hudson State Service Center (Newark)
Northeast State Service Center (Wilmington)
Winder Laird Porter State Service Center (Wilmington)

These centers provide a range of services and support to ensure residents can access the help they need promptly. Each center is equipped to handle applications and provide guidance on the emergency assistance funds available.

Kent County Resources

Individuals and families seeking emergency rental assistance in Kent County can visit one of the following service centers to confirm their eligibility and apply:

James W. Williams State Service Center (Dover)
Smyrna State Service Center (Smyrna)

Kent County's service centers are dedicated to helping residents in need of emergency assistance. The staff at these centers can help applicants understand the requirements and complete their applications efficiently.

Sussex County Resources

Individuals and families seeking emergency rental assistance in Sussex County can visit one of the following service centers to confirm their eligibility and apply:

Sussex County offers multiple locations where residents can seek help. Each center provides personalized assistance to ensure that every applicant receives the support they need.

Milford Resources

Individuals and families seeking emergency rental assistance can visit one of the following service centers in Milford to confirm their eligibility and apply:

Milford's service centers are strategically located to serve the community efficiently. These centers are vital for residents who need immediate help with rental assistance.

Non-Profit Organizations and Community Groups

In addition to the resources mentioned above, several non-profit organizations and community groups offer support and guidance to those facing housing insecurity. These groups often provide supplemental assistance and can help residents connect with additional services such as food banks, job training programs, and financial counseling.

Further Help

Navigating the complexities of emergency rental assistance can be challenging, but Delaware offers a robust network of resources to support residents in need. Whether you are facing eviction or simply struggling to make ends meet, there are programs and organizations ready to help. By reaching out to local service centers and utilizing available resources, Delaware residents can find the support they need to maintain stable and secure housing.

If you’re struggling to pay rent, check out Affordable Housing Hub’s overview of resources. This page provides information on resources available across the United States for people experiencing housing emergencies. You can also visit the Delaware State Housing Authority website for more information on emergency rental assistance programs.