Benefits and Resources for Senior Veterans in Delaware

Last updated: August 2025

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Quick Help: Fast Contacts and Emergency Support

If you need help now, start here. These links go straight to official sources.

Reality check:

• If phones are busy, use the official websites above to submit online forms or find email contacts.
• For urgent housing, call 877-424-3838 and 2-1-1 in the same day to cover VA and community options.

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What You’ll Find in This Delaware Guide

• Clear, step-by-step help to use federal VA benefits in Delaware
• Delaware-only programs, offices, and where to apply
• Tools for special situations (limited mobility, rural access, LGBTQ+, women veterans, and more)
• Verified links to official sources in each section
• FAQs and a statewide resource list at the end

This guide focuses on resources for older veterans and their families living in Delaware.

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At-a-Glance: Key Benefits for Senior Veterans in Delaware

Use this table to jump to what you need. All links go to official or well-established sources.

Note: Dollar amounts and copays change. Always use the official links above to confirm current rules and rates.

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How to Get One-on-One Help in Delaware

• Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs (DCVA)
  • What they do: Free claims help, records requests, state veterans cemeteries, Delaware Veterans Trust Fund (emergency assistance), and more.
  • Start here: DCVA homepage: https://veterans.delaware.gov/
  • Find a Veteran Service Officer (VSO): https://veterans.delaware.gov/benefits-assistance/
    Tip: Using an accredited VSO is free. To verify accreditation, use VA’s directory: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/
• Wilmington VA Medical Center (and clinics)
  • What they do: VA health care for eligible veterans and coordination with community care if needed.
  • Get connected: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/
    You’ll find clinic locations, phone numbers, My HealtheVet, and telehealth options there.
• Delaware Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
  • What they do: A single entry point for home care, meals, caregiver help, and long-term services.
  • Contact: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html
• Delaware Joining Forces (DJF)
  • What they do: A statewide network linking military, veterans, and families to benefits, jobs, and services.
  • Learn more: https://djf.delaware.gov/

Reality check:

• Bring your DD214 (or request it from the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records) to speed up any application.
• If you struggle with forms, ask DCVA or a VSO to sit with you. It’s part of their job.

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Health Care and Long-Term Care in Delaware

Enrolling in VA Health Care

• Apply online: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• Or apply by mail, in person, or by phone (details at the link above).
• After you enroll, Wilmington VA Medical Center will assign a primary care team. Clinic info is here: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/locations/

What to expect:

• Primary care, specialty referrals, mental health, pharmacy, labs, and telehealth.
• If VA can’t provide a needed service in a timely way, you may qualify for community care through the VA MISSION Act. See: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/

Telehealth:

• If you live far from Wilmington or have mobility issues, ask about VA Video Connect or in-home remote monitoring. Overview: https://connectedcare.va.gov/

Beneficiary travel (mileage reimbursement):

• VA may reimburse mileage and tolls to VA or VA-authorized appointments if you qualify. How to apply and file claims: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/

Long-Term Care Options

• VA Long-Term Care: Nursing home care, community living centers, home-based primary care, adult day health care, and respite. Overview: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/long-term-care/
• Delaware Veterans Home (Milford): State-run skilled nursing facility for eligible veterans. Admissions, services, and contact: https://veterans.delaware.gov/delaware-veterans-home/
• Delaware ADRC: Helps you compare home care, caregiver support, and facilities statewide: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html
• Medicaid Long-Term Care (Delaware DMMA): If you have limited income/assets, Medicaid may cover nursing home or home-and-community-based services. Start at DMMA: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/

Home modifications and accessibility:

• VA Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) and related grants can help disabled veterans modify or purchase an accessible home: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
• Ask Wilmington VAMC about the Home Improvement and Structural Alterations (HISA) benefit through VA Prosthetics for medically necessary changes.

Caregiver support:

• VA Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (for eligible veterans) and other supports: https://www.caregiver.va.gov/

Reality check:

• Nursing home beds fill quickly. Get on waitlists early (Delaware Veterans Home and private facilities).
• Benefits interact. For example, Medicaid rules affect what you can keep. Talk with ADRC and a VSO before you spend down assets.

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Money, Income, and Taxes

VA Disability Compensation

• What it is: Tax-free monthly benefit for disabilities related to your service.
• How to apply: https://www.va.gov/disability/how-to-file-claim/
• You can add “Special Monthly Compensation” if you have certain severe disabilities. Details: https://www.va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/special-monthly-compensation-rates/

Tip: Use a DCVA VSO to gather medical evidence and service records and to file Fully Developed Claims where possible.

VA Pension and Aid & Attendance (A&A)

• What it is: Income-based pension for wartime veterans with limited income; Aid & Attendance (or Housebound) adds more if you need help with daily activities or are largely confined at home.
• Pension overview: https://www.va.gov/pension/
• A&A and Housebound: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• Current pension rates: https://www.va.gov/pension/rates/

Reality check:

• Pension/A&A paperwork is detailed. Don’t guess at medical expense deductions. A VSO can help you list recurring medical costs correctly (these can lower your “countable” income).

Social Security and Medicare

• Many senior veterans use both VA and Medicare. You can have both, and you should keep Medicare if you can afford it.
• Medicare info: https://www.medicare.gov/

If you are a military retiree age 65+, TRICARE For Life works with Medicare: https://www.tricare.mil/tfl

Delaware Taxes (State)

• Delaware does not tax Social Security benefits. See Delaware Division of Revenue: https://revenue.delaware.gov/pit-faqs/
• Delaware has no state sales tax. See Division of Revenue: https://revenue.delaware.gov/
• Delaware offers exclusions for retirement income. Rules change, so confirm current amounts with the Division of Revenue (link above) or a tax preparer.

Property tax and local credits:

• Property tax is local in Delaware. Check your county for senior credits and any disabled veteran credits affecting school taxes.
• State-level info hub: Delaware Department of Finance: https://finance.delaware.gov/
• Many localities offer a Senior School Property Tax Credit (age and residency rules apply). Some offer enhanced credits for 100% disabled veterans. Check your county or school district’s official site for current rules and forms.

Emergency financial help:

• Delaware Veterans Trust Fund (administered by DCVA): One-time assistance for critical needs like housing and utilities, based on available funds. How to request help: https://veterans.delaware.gov/delaware-veterans-trust-fund/
• Delaware 211 can point you to rent, utility, and crisis funds: https://www.delaware211.org/

Fraud warning:

• Avoid “consultants” who charge to file VA claims. Use accredited VSOs only: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/

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Housing and Homelessness

• HUD-VASH (VA + HUD): Combines a housing voucher with VA case management. Learn more: https://www.va.gov/homeless/hud-vash/
• Wilmington VAMC Homeless Programs: Outreach, health care, and housing help: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/programs/homeless-veteran-care/
• National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: 877-424-3838 (24/7)

Delaware housing programs:

• Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA): Homeownership, rental assistance information, and housing programs: https://destatehousing.com/
• Delaware 211: Find local shelter and housing support quickly: https://www.delaware211.org/

Home repair and accessibility:

• VA SAH and related grants: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
• Weatherization and energy help (state): Weatherization Assistance Program via DHSS/DNREC can reduce utility costs. Start at Delaware 211 or DNREC: https://dnrec.delaware.gov/energy-climate/weatherization/

Reality check:

• HUD-VASH waitlists move based on unit availability and local needs. Keep your phone on, check voicemail, and respond quickly to housing authority calls.

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Food, Nutrition, and Daily Living

• SNAP (food benefits): Apply and manage benefits here: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dss/snap.html
• Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Check Delaware Department of Agriculture for seasonal info: https://agriculture.delaware.gov/
• Meals at home or senior centers: Contact ADRC to find providers in your county: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html
• Food Bank of Delaware (non-profit): Pantry locator and programs: https://www.fbd.org/

Tip: If you receive VA pension or Aid & Attendance, report medical expenses to VA correctly and keep receipts—they may help your budget both with VA and with income-based state benefits.

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Transportation

Getting to appointments can be half the battle. Here are dependable options.

Reality check:

• Volunteer rides book out fast. Call as soon as you get your appointment date.
• Keep parking receipts and mileage notes if you claim VA travel pay.

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Delaware-Specific Benefits and Services

Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs (DCVA)

• Claims help, benefits counseling, Delaware Veterans Trust Fund, cemeteries, license plates, and more.
• Home page: https://veterans.delaware.gov/
• Cemeteries (Bear and Millsboro): Eligibility and arrangements: https://veterans.delaware.gov/cemeteries/
• Veterans Trust Fund (emergency assistance): https://veterans.delaware.gov/delaware-veterans-trust-fund/
• Veteran and military license plates (via DCVA info): https://veterans.delaware.gov/

Tip: DCVA can also help with VA headstones/markers and burial honors. VA burial benefits overview: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/

Delaware Veterans Home (Milford)

• Skilled nursing facility dedicated to veterans. Admissions details, services, and eligibility are on the official page: https://veterans.delaware.gov/delaware-veterans-home/

Delaware DMV: Veteran IDs and Plates

• Add “Veteran” to your driver license or get a military/veteran plate.
• Start with DCVA info and your local DMV: https://veterans.delaware.gov/ and Delaware DMV: https://dmv.de.gov/

Reality check:

• Bring your DD214 (honorable discharge) for veteran designation and plates.
• Fees and plate types vary; confirm at DMV before you go.

Outdoor Recreation (Licenses and Discounts)

• Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife: License details, including reduced-fee or no-fee options for eligible residents with disabilities; check current rules: https://dnrec.delaware.gov/fish-wildlife/licenses-registrations/
• Always verify age-based exemptions and disability documentation requirements at the link above.

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Mental Health and Social Connection

• VA Mental Health (Wilmington VAMC): Services and contact: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/
• Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1; text 838255; chat: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/
• Delaware Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH): State behavioral health resources: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsamh/
• Peer support: Ask Wilmington VA about peer groups and social work services; ADRC can also connect you to local senior centers and veteran groups.

Reality check:

• If you find the VA portal confusing, call Wilmington VA Patient Advocate. The facility page has contact info: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/

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Legal, Identity, and End-of-Life Planning

• Legal help for seniors:
  • Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI): https://www.clasi.org/
  • Legal Services Corporation of Delaware: https://www.lscd.com/
  • Delaware State Bar Association Lawyer Referral: https://www.dsba.org/for-the-public/find-a-lawyer/
• Military records (DD214): National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
• VA pre-need burial eligibility: Apply in advance to reduce stress later: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/pre-need-eligibility/
• Delaware veterans cemeteries: https://veterans.delaware.gov/cemeteries/
• Consumer protection/scam warnings: Delaware Department of Justice, Consumer Protection: https://attorneygeneral.delaware.gov/consumer-protection/

Tip: Keep a folder with DD214, VA rating letter, insurance info, medication list, and contact info for your VSO and doctors. Tell a trusted family member where it is.

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Special Focus: Inclusive Support

LGBTQ+ Senior Veterans

• VA provides LGBTQ+ affirming care. Ask for the LGBTQ+ Veteran Care Coordinator (LVCC) at Wilmington VA. Program info: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/
• If you’ve had past negative experiences, you can request a different provider and speak with the Patient Advocate. Facility info: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/

Disabled Senior Veterans

• Key benefits: VA disability compensation; Special Monthly Compensation; SAH housing grants; HISA for home modifications; VA long-term care; Delaware Veterans Home; DART reduced fares/paratransit (with eligibility).
• Start with your VSO (DCVA) for claims and paperwork: https://veterans.delaware.gov/

Women Senior Veterans

• Women Veterans Health Program at Wilmington VA: primary care, specialty care, reproductive health, and gender-specific services. Program page: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/programs/women-veterans-health-care/
• If you prefer a female provider, request it when scheduling.

Tribal-Affiliated Veterans

• If you identify with a tribal community, the VA Office of Tribal Government Relations can help connect benefits and culturally informed support: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
• Delaware has native community organizations (for example, the Nanticoke Indian Association). For government-administered benefits, use VA and DCVA links above.

Rural Senior Veterans (Kent and Sussex County)

• Options if you live far from Wilmington:
  • Use VA Video Connect (telehealth): https://connectedcare.va.gov/
  • Ask about community care if travel is a barrier: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/
  • Check DART routes/paratransit and local ride programs: https://www.dartfirststate.com/
  • Apply for VA travel reimbursement if eligible: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/

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Programs and How to Use Them: A Closer Look

Reality check:

• Paperwork takes time. Keep copies, log dates, and follow up every 2–3 weeks. If you hit a wall, contact the facility Patient Advocate or your VSO.

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Transportation and Access Table (Delaware Details)

Tip: If you have a smartphone, download the VA’s travel reimbursement app or use the online portal to submit mileage the same day as your appointment.

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Region-by-Region Resources in Delaware

Note: Use these links to find addresses, hours, and phone numbers for your area.

New Castle County

• Wilmington VA Medical Center and clinics: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/locations/
• ADRC services and senior centers: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html
• County government (tax and property info): https://www.newcastlede.gov/
• Housing resources: DSHA: https://destatehousing.com/; Delaware 211: https://www.delaware211.org/

Kent County

• VA services via Wilmington VAMC clinics and telehealth: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/locations/
• ADRC (home care, meals, caregiver help): https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html
• Kent County government (tax/property): https://co.kent.de.us/
• Housing and local supports: DSHA and 211 links above

Sussex County

• VA clinic access and telehealth: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/locations/
• ADRC and senior centers: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html
• Sussex County government (tax/property): https://sussexcountyde.gov/
• Rural transport and community rides: DART: https://www.dartfirststate.com/; Delaware 211: https://www.delaware211.org/

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Practical Tips Before You Apply

• Gather documents: DD214, VA rating letter, Medicare/insurance cards, list of medications, monthly income and expenses, and bank statements.
• Use accredited help: Start with DCVA VSOs: https://veterans.delaware.gov/
• Keep a notebook: Write dates, names of people you spoke with, and confirmation numbers.
• Watch for deadlines: Appeals, tax credits, and property programs have firm dates.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I enroll in VA health care if I’m already on Medicare?

• You can have both. Apply for VA health care here: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• Keep Medicare (and TRICARE For Life if you’re a retiree) for non-VA care and emergencies. Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/

Q: How do I get to the Wilmington VA if I don’t drive?

• Check DART routes and reduced fares: https://www.dartfirststate.com/
• Ask Wilmington VA about volunteer rides: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/work-with-us/volunteer-or-donate/
• If eligible, apply for VA travel reimbursement: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/

Q: Does Delaware tax my military pension?

• Delaware tax rules change. See Delaware Division of Revenue for the latest retirement income exclusions and military pension treatment: https://revenue.delaware.gov/
• Consider speaking with a tax preparer familiar with Delaware rules.

Q: Is there a property tax break for seniors or disabled veterans?

• Many localities offer a Senior School Property Tax Credit. Some offer enhanced credits for 100% disabled veterans. Check the Delaware Department of Finance for state-level info: https://finance.delaware.gov/ and contact your county tax office for current rules and applications.

Q: Can I get help paying rent or finding an apartment?

• For veterans who are homeless or at risk, call 877-424-3838 (HUD-VASH) and contact Wilmington VAMC Homeless Program: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/programs/homeless-veteran-care/
• For broader housing help, check DSHA: https://destatehousing.com/ and Delaware 211: https://www.delaware211.org/

Q: What is Aid & Attendance and how do I apply in Delaware?

• Aid & Attendance adds money to a VA pension if you need daily care or are housebound. Start here: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
• For help with forms and medical statements, use DCVA: https://veterans.delaware.gov/

Q: How do I get “Veteran” on my Delaware driver license?

• Bring your DD214 (honorable discharge) to DMV. Check DMV’s site for current steps and fees: https://dmv.de.gov/
• DCVA also provides info on veteran plates: https://veterans.delaware.gov/

Q: How do I apply to the Delaware Veterans Home?

• See admissions and eligibility here: https://veterans.delaware.gov/delaware-veterans-home/
• If you’re also considering Medicaid long-term care, contact DMMA: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/ and the ADRC: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html

Q: Where can I get free legal help in Delaware?

• Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI): https://www.clasi.org/
• Legal Services Corporation of Delaware: https://www.lscd.com/
• Lawyer referral: Delaware State Bar Association: https://www.dsba.org/for-the-public/find-a-lawyer/

Q: I lost my DD214. How do I get a copy?

• Request records from the National Archives: https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

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Quick Reference Tables

Health and Long-Term Care Options

Money, Taxes, and Discounts

Housing and Food

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Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Missing paperwork: Keep copies of everything you submit. Use certified mail or online portals with confirmations.
• Unaccredited “helpers”: Only use accredited VSOs or agents: https://www.va.gov/ogc/apps/accreditation/
• Waiting too long to apply: Benefits often start the month after VA gets your claim. Filing sooner can matter.
• Ignoring appeals deadlines: If you disagree with a decision, use the options and timelines at https://www.va.gov/decision-reviews/

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Resources (Official Links)

Health and VA

• Wilmington VA Medical Center: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/
• VA Health Care Enrollment: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/
• VA Community Care: https://www.va.gov/communitycare/
• VA Long-Term Care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/long-term-care/
• VA Travel Reimbursement: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
• VA Disability Compensation: https://www.va.gov/disability/
• VA Pension and A&A: https://www.va.gov/pension/
• Homeless Veterans (VA): https://www.va.gov/homeless/
• Veterans Crisis Line: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Delaware State

• DCVA (Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs): https://veterans.delaware.gov/
• Delaware Veterans Home: https://veterans.delaware.gov/delaware-veterans-home/
• Delaware ADRC (Aging & Disability Resource Center): https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html
• Delaware Division of Medicaid & Medical Assistance (DMMA): https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/
• Delaware Division of Revenue (taxes): https://revenue.delaware.gov/
• Delaware Department of Finance: https://finance.delaware.gov/
• Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA): https://destatehousing.com/
• DART First State (transit): https://www.dartfirststate.com/
• Delaware 211: https://www.delaware211.org/
• DNREC (licenses and parks): https://dnrec.delaware.gov/

Other Useful

• National Archives (DD214): https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records
• Medicare: https://www.medicare.gov/
• TRICARE For Life: https://www.tricare.mil/tfl
• VA LGBTQ+ Health: https://www.patientcare.va.gov/LGBT/
• VA Women Veterans Health: https://www.va.gov/womenvet/
• VA Tribal Government Relations: https://www.va.gov/tribalgovernment/
• Legal help: CLASI https://www.clasi.org/; LSCD https://www.lscd.com/; DSBA https://www.dsba.org/for-the-public/find-a-lawyer/
• Consumer protection (Delaware DOJ): https://attorneygeneral.delaware.gov/consumer-protection/

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Disclaimer

Program details, eligibility rules, and dollar amounts change. Always confirm current information directly with the agency or program using the links provided. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, or medical advice.

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About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources: Linked throughout this guide to official Delaware state, federal, and well-established non-profit sites
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.