9 Ways to Get Free Delaware Rent Assistance

If housing costs are overwhelming you, then you need to know about the free Delaware rent assistance programs we’ve found all over the state!

Statewide Delaware Rent Assistance Programs

There are several nationwide government and privately-funded programs that can assist you with your rent.

Delaware Housing Assistance Program (DEHAP)

DEHAP is the official Delaware state housing relief program that was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This program is very helpful!

What does DEHAP cover?

DEHAP can assist with up to 15 months of rent and utilities. Costs are capped at $2,000 per month for rent and $1,500 per month for utilities.

The program can also assist with security deposits and first months rent for those who are moving into a rental unit.

Who is eligible for DEHAP?

In order to be eligible for DEHAP, you must meet the following requirements:

• You must have at least one person in your household who has qualified for unemployment OR experienced a reduction in income OR experienced significant costs OR experienced other hardship directly or indirectly due to the pandemic.
• You must be at risk for homelessness or housing instability, which could be proved by showing past-due utility or rent notices OR an eviction notice OR a high high housing cost burden which means that your rent is more than 30% of your income.
• You must have an income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income for your county (as shown by 2020 annual income or current income when you apply).

How do I apply for DEHAP?

You can apply for DEHAP on the official application portal.

Catholic Charities

The Catholic Charities Diocese of Wilmington offers a Basic Needs program that can help with rent and utilities. It appears they serve the entire state of Delaware.

Emergency Assistance Services

Emergency Assistance funds are available for rent, utilities and emergency shelter. However, you must meet strict requirements. Contact a State Service Center for more information about this program.

First State Community Action Agency

The First State Community Action Agency provides an Emergency Assistance Program that can assist with rent, eviction prevention, foreclosure prevention, utilities, medical prescriptions, emergency food and more. They also offer housing counseling and other helpful supportive services.

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army Delaware Command may also emergency assistance for rent, electric, gas, oil, food and more.

St. Vincent de Paul

Many Catholic Churches partner with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to offer financial assistance to people who live within their parish boundaries. It appears that Our Lady of Fatima in New Castle and St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Hockessin offer financial assistance through their St. Vincent de Paul affiliation. If you need help with rent, I recommend looking for a Society of St. Vincent de Paul member in your area.

West End Neighborhood House

The West End Neighborhood House offers several supportive housing programs, including an incredible rental assistance program.

Their Statewide Security Deposit Loan Program helps low and moderate income families afford move-in costs. This program can provide funds for security deposits and utility deposits.

The Re-Entry Program provides up to 8 weeks of rental assistance for formerly incarcerated residents who are returning to their communities. As part of this program, you may also be able to receive assistance from partner organizations who will offer employment training and other services as well.

They also provide a food closet with up to five days worth of non-perishable items and frozen foods. To receive food, you simply need a valid Delaware ID and an appointment.

Nationwide Rental Assistance Programs

There are some programs that provide assistance with rent all over the United States! For even more ways to get help with your rent, check this list!

Local Delaware Rent Assistance Programs

There are additional rent relief programs that are restricted to people who live in certain cities or counties. We have listed them in alphabetical order below for your convenience. Don’t forget to check our website for other Delaware resources!

New Castle County

Lutheran Community Services

This program serves New Castle County and Wilmington residents only. Their Emergency Financial Assistance program can assist with rent, mortgage and utility payments, as well as security deposits. They can also assist with food and health services as well.

Our Lady of Fatima

This Church appears to offer financial assistance with rent through their relationship to St. Vincent de Paul.

St. Mary of the Assumption Church

This Church appears to offer Delaware rent assistance through their relationship to St. Vincent de Paul.

Sussex County

Community Resource Center

The Community Resource Center provides an Emergency Assistance program that can assist with rent, utilities, auto repairs, medicine, and other emergency needs.

Nicole Thelin

Nicole is the founder and lead researcher of Low Income Relief. After a personal experience with poverty and homelessness following her husband's sudden medical discharge from the U.S. Army, Nicole discovered the life-changing impact of community resources. This experience ignited her passion for empowering others to navigate similar crises. Nicole launched her writing career at age 16, working for various newspapers and publications. Her commitment to in-depth research and accessible content has been recognized by Google for Publishers and other industry leaders. For over 20 years, she has applied her investigative skills to uncover the most helpful, up-to-date information on benefits programs and community resources, ensuring Low Income Relief maintains the most extensive resource databases available.