Emergency Assistance for Seniors in Delaware
Emergency Assistance, Resources, and Programs for Seniors in Delaware (2025)
Last updated: August 2025
Note: Live web search is not available in this chat. To keep this guide trustworthy, we link directly to official Delaware and federal sources so you can check current details quickly.
Quick Help Box (fastest steps in a crisis)
- Call 911 for immediate danger, fire, or a medical emergency.
- Call or text 988 for suicide, mental health, or substance use crises; chat at the 988 Lifeline website: https://988lifeline.org/.
- Dial 2-1-1 for Delaware 2‑1‑1 to find shelters, food, and urgent local help: https://delaware211.org/.
- Report suspected elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation: contact Delaware’s Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) to reach Adult Protective Services and get guidance: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html (toll‑free number on the page).
- Disaster information: check Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) for shelter updates and alerts: https://dema.delaware.gov/.
- Apply for federal disaster aid (if a disaster is declared): FEMA Individual Assistance: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/ or call 1‑800‑621‑3362.
- Need food today? Use Delaware 2‑1‑1, find a nearby food pantry via Food Bank of Delaware: https://www.fbd.org/, or call your local senior center listed on Delaware’s DSAAPD site: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/.
- For benefits applications (Medicaid, SNAP, etc.): Delaware ASSIST online portal: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/.
How to use this guide
Start with “Emergency First Steps” if you have an urgent need. Then go to the section that fits your situation: food, housing and utilities, healthcare and prescriptions, money and legal help, transportation, or caregiving. We include state-specific programs, links, and realistic timelines.
Emergency first steps in Delaware
- Danger, crime, or medical emergency: call 911.
- Mental health or substance crisis: call or text 988 (24/7). More state info via Delaware’s Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH): https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsamh/.
- Urgent basic needs (shelter, food, utilities help): dial 2‑1‑1 or visit Delaware 2‑1‑1: https://delaware211.org/. Specialists can connect you to openings faster than calling many places yourself.
- Elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation: learn what to report and how to file a report on the Adult Protective Services page and through Delaware’s ADRC: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/aps.html and https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html.
- Disaster alerts and shelters: follow DEMA: https://dema.delaware.gov/. Consider signing up for Delaware alerts listed on DEMA’s site.
- After a declared disaster: apply at FEMA’s DisasterAssistance.gov: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/ or call 1‑800‑621‑3362.
Reality check:
- Beds and funds can run out quickly during heat waves, storms, or at the end of program years. Start with Delaware 2‑1‑1 and the official program pages to save time.
- If you’re turned away, ask, “Where else can I try today?” Many agencies keep updated referral lists.
Immediate needs: where to go first
- Food same-day: check Delaware 2‑1‑1 and the Food Bank of Delaware pantry map: https://www.fbd.org/. For home-delivered meals and congregate meals, use the DSAAPD Nutrition Program page and Meals on Wheels Delaware: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/ (nutrition programs) and https://mealsonwheelsde.org/.
- Shelter tonight: call Delaware 2‑1‑1 for openings; see Housing Alliance Delaware’s “Get Help” page: https://www.housingalliancede.org/ (look for Coordinated Entry/helpline details).
- Energy shutoff: see Delaware’s Energy Assistance (LIHEAP/DEAP) information: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/energy.html and contact Catholic Charities of Delaware (administers LIHEAP locally) via the DHSS page.
- Medical access: if you lack coverage, apply for Medicaid or QMB/SLMB (Medicare Savings Programs) via Delaware ASSIST: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/. For Part D help, see Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy): https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/.
- Transportation to appointments: review DART First State Paratransit and Reduced Fare for 65+: https://dartfirststate.com/. Medicaid members: check transportation benefits with your plan; see DMMA (Delaware Medicaid) managed care info: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/.
Table 1. Fast contacts for common emergencies
Need | Who it helps | How to reach | Official source |
---|---|---|---|
Police, fire, ambulance | Anyone in danger | 911 | Your local 911 |
Suicide/mental health crisis | Anyone in crisis | 988 (call/text) | 988 Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/ |
Find food, shelter, utility help | Delaware residents | Dial 2‑1‑1 or visit | Delaware 2‑1‑1: https://delaware211.org/ |
Adult Protective Services | Adults 60+/adults with disabilities | Contact via ADRC | APS: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/aps.html; ADRC: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html |
Disaster updates/shelters | Statewide | DEMA website | DEMA: https://dema.delaware.gov/ |
FEMA disaster aid | Disaster survivors | 1‑800‑621‑3362 or website | FEMA: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/ |
Red Cross disaster help | Anyone after fires/floods | 1‑800‑733‑2767 | American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/ |
Tip: If a phone line is busy, try early morning or use the online forms where available.
Food and nutrition programs (emergency and ongoing)
- SNAP (food benefits on an EBT card): Delaware’s SNAP is run by the Division of Social Services. Apply or check status via Delaware ASSIST: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/. Program info: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/.
- Home-delivered and community meals: DSAAPD funds nutrition programs statewide; Meals on Wheels Delaware partners with local agencies to deliver daily meals to homebound seniors. See DSAAPD nutrition services and find a provider: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/. Learn about Meals on Wheels Delaware: https://mealsonwheelsde.org/.
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) for seniors 60+: Monthly box of pantry staples for income-eligible seniors. See the Food Bank of Delaware’s senior programs and CSFP info: https://www.fbd.org/.
- Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP): Seasonal produce coupons for eligible seniors, accepted at participating markets. Check the Delaware Department of Agriculture farmers’ markets page and ask about SFMNP acceptance: https://agriculture.delaware.gov/marketing-and-promotion/farmers-markets/. National contacts: https://www.fns.usda.gov/sfmnp/contacts.
Reality check:
- SNAP decisions can take time unless there’s an expedited need. When applying, report emergencies (no food, very low income, or shutoff notices) for faster service where eligible.
- Home-delivered meals may have waitlists in some areas. Ask about short-term options from local senior centers or food pantries while you wait.
Table 2. Food and nutrition at a glance
Program | What it does | How to apply/contact | Official source |
---|---|---|---|
SNAP | Monthly food benefits on EBT for low-income households | Apply online (ASSIST) | DSS/ASSIST: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/ |
Home-delivered meals | Hot meals to homebound seniors | Contact DSAAPD/Meals on Wheels | DSAAPD: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/; MOW DE: https://mealsonwheelsde.org/ |
Congregate meals | Lunch at senior/community sites | Call your local senior center | DSAAPD: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/ |
CSFP | Monthly food box for age 60+ with limited income | Enroll through Food Bank of DE | FBD: https://www.fbd.org/ |
SFMNP | Seasonal produce vouchers | Check eligibility and markets | Delaware Dept. of Agriculture: https://agriculture.delaware.gov/marketing-and-promotion/farmers-markets/ |
Housing and utilities help
- State Rental and Housing Help: Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) provides rental assistance programs (availability varies) and links to housing counselors. Start here: https://www.destatehousing.com/.
- Emergency shelter and housing coordination: See Housing Alliance Delaware for Coordinated Entry and help navigating shelter options: https://www.housingalliancede.org/.
- Energy bills (LIHEAP/DEAP): Delaware’s energy assistance program helps with heating, cooling, and crisis energy needs. DHSS program info and how to apply (administered locally by Catholic Charities): https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/energy.html.
- Weatherization Assistance Program: Free home energy improvements for eligible households to lower bills and improve safety. Program details via Delaware DNREC: https://dnrec.delaware.gov/energy-climate/energy-efficiency-weatherization/weatherization-assistance-program/.
- Telephone/internet discount (Lifeline): Monthly discount on phone or internet for eligible households. Learn and apply: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/. Note: The separate Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended due to lack of funding in 2024; see FCC updates: https://www.fcc.gov/acp.
Reality check:
- Some rental or emergency programs open and close waitlists. If a list is closed, ask when it might reopen and request email/text alerts where offered.
- For shutoff notices, bring or upload the notice with your LIHEAP application. Ask about “crisis” or “life-threatening” categories for faster review if applicable.
Table 3. Housing and utility programs
Program | What it does | How to apply/contact | Official source |
---|---|---|---|
DSHA housing programs | Rental help and counseling; program availability changes | Visit DSHA website for current programs | DSHA: https://www.destatehousing.com/ |
Coordinated Entry (shelter) | Centralized referrals to shelters/housing resources | Use Housing Alliance Delaware’s “Get Help” info | Housing Alliance DE: https://www.housingalliancede.org/ |
LIHEAP/DEAP | Help with heating/cooling bills and crisis | Follow DHSS instructions; local admin via Catholic Charities | DHSS Energy Assistance: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/energy.html |
Weatherization | Free home energy upgrades | Contact DNREC program | DNREC WAP: https://dnrec.delaware.gov/energy-climate/energy-efficiency-weatherization/weatherization-assistance-program/ |
Lifeline | Discounted phone/internet | Check eligibility and apply | Lifeline (USAC): https://www.lifelinesupport.org/ |
Health coverage, prescriptions, and caregiving
- Delaware Medicaid (DMMA): Apply for Medicaid, long-term care coverage (Diamond State Health Plan Plus), and Medicare Savings Programs via Delaware ASSIST: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/. Program info: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/.
- Medicare counseling: Delaware’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program is the Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau (DMAB). Get free counseling on Medicare Parts A/B/D, Medigap, Advantage, and costs: https://insurance.delaware.gov/dmab/.
- Extra Help (Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy): Helps with drug plan premiums and copays; as of 2024, full benefit is available up to 150% of the federal poverty level. Apply with Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/.
- Caregiver support: DSAAPD runs caregiver support, respite, and information services: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/caregiver.html.
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Independent help for residents of nursing homes and assisted living to resolve complaints and protect rights: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/ltcom.html.
Reality check:
- Managed long-term care (DSHP-Plus) has rules and assessments. Expect paperwork and time for approvals. Use the ADRC for help understanding options: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html.
- Review your Medicare drug plan each fall during Open Enrollment; formularies and costs change. DMAB can compare your options.
Table 4. Health coverage and caregiver supports
Program | What it does | Where to start | Official source |
---|---|---|---|
Delaware Medicaid (DMMA) | Health coverage; includes long-term services (DSHP-Plus) | Apply on ASSIST | DMMA: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/; ASSIST: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/ |
Medicare counseling (SHIP) | Free one-on-one Medicare help | Contact DMAB | DMAB: https://insurance.delaware.gov/dmab/ |
Medicare Extra Help (LIS) | Lowers drug plan costs | Apply with Social Security | SSA Extra Help: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/ |
Caregiver Support | Info, respite, resources | DSAAPD Caregiver page | https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/caregiver.html |
LTC Ombudsman | Help with care facility issues | Ombudsman Program | https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/ltcom.html |
Money, legal help, and consumer protection
- Property tax relief: Delaware’s Senior School Property Tax Credit can reduce school property taxes for eligible homeowners 65+. Requirements and the current credit amount are set by law and may change; check the Delaware Department of Finance page for details and how to apply: https://finance.delaware.gov/senior-relief/.
- Legal help:
- Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI) – Elder Law Program and civil legal services: https://www.clasi.org/
- Legal Services Corporation of Delaware – civil legal aid: https://www.lscd.com/
- Delaware Volunteer Legal Services – pro bono civil legal help: https://www.dvls.org/
- Consumer protection and scams: Report fraud, home repair scams, and financial exploitation to the Delaware Department of Justice Consumer Protection Unit: https://attorneygeneral.delaware.gov/fraud/cpu/. Federal guidance: https://www.ftc.gov/.
- Reverse mortgage and foreclosure counseling: Work only with HUD-approved housing counselors: https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor.
Reality check:
- Be cautious of “guaranteed” grants, loans, or debt relief. Verify with Delaware DOJ or check the organization on the state’s site before sharing personal info or money.
Table 5. Money and legal help quick view
Topic | Who to contact | Official source |
---|---|---|
Senior property tax credit | Delaware Department of Finance | https://finance.delaware.gov/senior-relief/ |
Elder legal help | CLASI; LSCD; DVLS | CLASI: https://www.clasi.org/; LSCD: https://www.lscd.com/; DVLS: https://www.dvls.org/ |
Fraud/scams | Delaware DOJ Consumer Protection Unit | https://attorneygeneral.delaware.gov/fraud/cpu/ |
Housing counseling | HUD-approved counselors | https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor |
Transportation and mobility
- DART First State Paratransit: Shared-ride door-to-door service for eligible riders; ADA eligibility required for ADA trips. Info and reservations: https://dartfirststate.com/services/paratransit/.
- DART Reduced Fare for 65+: Seniors can ride fixed-route buses at a reduced fare with ID; program details: https://dartfirststate.com/.
- Mobility and aging-in-place home changes: See Delaware weatherization and contact DSAAPD/ADRC for local programs that may help with home modifications based on income and needs: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html.
Tip: When you book paratransit, have your exact pickup and drop-off addresses ready and allow a pickup window. Book medical rides as early as allowed.
Safety, protection, and rights
- Adult Protective Services (APS): How to report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation and what to expect: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/aps.html. Use the ADRC to connect and get guidance: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html.
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Independent help for residents in nursing homes, assisted living, and similar settings: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/ltcom.html.
- Disaster preparedness for older adults: Review DEMA’s guidance and make a simple kit: medications list, copies of IDs, a few days of meds, a phone charger, and water: https://dema.delaware.gov/.
Reality check:
- If you fear retaliation for reporting, tell APS or the Ombudsman. You can ask how your identity is protected.
Inclusive resources
For LGBTQ+ seniors
- CAMP Rehoboth Community Center offers health and wellness programs, social support, and community connections; ask about resources for older adults: https://www.camprehoboth.com/.
- National support: SAGE National LGBT Elder Hotline provides peer support and referrals: https://www.sageusa.org/resource/sage-lgbt-elder-hotline/.
Tip: If you experience discrimination in healthcare or housing, speak with DMAB (for Medicare issues), the Long-Term Care Ombudsman (facility issues), or CLASI for legal help: https://insurance.delaware.gov/dmab/, https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/ltcom.html, https://www.clasi.org/.
For veteran seniors
- Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs (DCVA): Benefits claims help, the Delaware Veterans Home in Milford, cemeteries, and more: https://veteransaffairs.delaware.gov/.
- VA health care in Delaware: Wilmington VA Medical Center and community clinics: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/.
- VA pension with Aid and Attendance (for those needing help with daily activities): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/.
- Veterans Crisis Line: call 988, then press 1; or visit https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/.
Reality check:
- Aid and Attendance decisions can take months. File a fully developed claim with DCVA help to speed it up and avoid errors.
For tribal members and Native elders living in Delaware
- Delaware does not have federally recognized tribes; however, state-recognized and local tribal organizations can connect elders to cultural and community supports:
- Nanticoke Indian Association: https://nanticokeindians.org/
- Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware: https://www.lenapeindiantribeofdelaware.com/
- For federal programs and general Native elder resources, contact your tribe (if you’re enrolled elsewhere) or see national directories: Administration for Community Living – Native American Aging Programs: https://acl.gov/programs/native-american-aging-programs.
Note: Title VI Native American aging services (meals, transport) are tied to federally recognized tribes; availability varies. Ask your tribal office what’s offered where you live.
For rural seniors and families (Sussex, western Kent)
- Transportation: Check DART Paratransit and local senior centers (like CHEER sites in Sussex) for van rides; start at DSAAPD: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/.
- Internet access for telehealth: Delaware Libraries lend mobile hotspots in many locations: https://delawarelibraries.org/hotspots.
- Food access: Use Food Bank of Delaware mobile pantry schedules and local church/community pantries: https://www.fbd.org/.
Reality check:
- Rural ride scheduling often requires more advance notice. Ask about recurring ride bookings for regular dialysis or therapy.
Resources by region
Use these regional starting points alongside the statewide programs above.
New Castle County
- Senior centers and meals: See DSAAPD’s directory and Newark Senior Center for county offerings: DSAAPD: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/; Newark Senior Center: https://newarkseniorcenter.com/.
- Housing and emergency shelter coordination: Housing Alliance Delaware: https://www.housingalliancede.org/.
- Property tax relief: New Castle County property tax info: https://www.nccde.org/182/Taxes (confirm local credits and deadlines).
Kent County
- Modern Maturity Center (Dover): large senior center with meals, programs, and information: https://www.modern-maturity.org/.
- County services and property taxes: Kent County Levy Court: https://co.kent.de.us/.
- Housing help and shelter coordination: Housing Alliance Delaware: https://www.housingalliancede.org/.
Sussex County
- CHEER, Inc. (Sussex): meals, transportation, and in-home support for older adults: https://www.cheerde.com/.
- County information and property taxes: Sussex County government: https://sussexcountyde.gov/.
- Housing and shelter coordination: Housing Alliance Delaware: https://www.housingalliancede.org/.
Tip: Senior centers often know which programs have openings this week. Call the center closest to you even if you’re not a member.
Step-by-step: applying for common benefits in Delaware
- Food and cash benefits
- Where: Delaware ASSIST portal: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/
- Programs: SNAP (food), TANF (if caring for minor children), and related supports.
- Tips: Have ID, Social Security numbers, proof of Delaware residence, income, and expenses (rent, utilities, medical bills). Report if you have no food or face a shutoff for possible expedited review.
- Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, and long-term care
- Where: ASSIST for Medicaid and MSPs: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/
- Help: DMAB for Medicare decisions: https://insurance.delaware.gov/dmab/. ADRC for long-term care navigation: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html.
- Energy assistance (LIHEAP/DEAP)
- Where: DHSS Energy Assistance page: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/energy.html (local intake by Catholic Charities).
- Tips: Upload or bring shutoff notices and a recent bill. Ask about crisis categories and whether documentation can be submitted online or by drop box.
- Housing stability
- Where: DSHA programs: https://www.destatehousing.com/. For shelter, use Housing Alliance Delaware: https://www.housingalliancede.org/ and Delaware 2‑1‑1: https://delaware211.org/.
- Tips: Expect waiting lists. Keep a folder with IDs, income, lease, and notices ready to speed intake.
- Home-delivered meals and CSFP
- Where: DSAAPD nutrition programs: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/; Meals on Wheels Delaware: https://mealsonwheelsde.org/; Food Bank of Delaware for CSFP: https://www.fbd.org/.
Reality checks, warnings, and practical tips
- Documents matter: Keep a basic packet ready—photo ID, Social Security card, Medicare/Medicaid cards, benefit award letters, recent bills, lease/mortgage papers, and any shutoff or eviction notices.
- Beware “fees” to apply: Legitimate state/federal programs do not charge application fees. If someone asks for money to “guarantee” benefits, report it to Delaware DOJ: https://attorneygeneral.delaware.gov/fraud/cpu/.
- Timelines: Energy help and SNAP can be faster for emergencies, but housing help often takes longer. Ask each program how to mark your case as urgent if you have medical risks (oxygen, refrigeration for insulin, etc.).
- Stay informed about program changes: For example, the federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024; see updates at the FCC page: https://www.fcc.gov/acp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: I need help now with food or a shutoff. Who can I call first in Delaware?
- Start with Delaware 2-1-1 (https://delaware211.org/ or dial 2-1-1). For energy shutoffs, see DHSS Energy Assistance: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/energy.html. For food today, check the Food Bank of Delaware: https://www.fbd.org/.
Q: How do I report elder abuse or financial exploitation?
- See Delaware Adult Protective Services: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/aps.html. If you’re unsure whether it’s abuse, call the ADRC for guidance: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html. Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger.
Q: Does Delaware still have emergency rental assistance?
- Delaware’s emergency COVID-era rental programs have ended or changed. Check current DSHA rental programs and any open waitlists: https://www.destatehousing.com/. For shelter or rapid-rehousing referrals, use Housing Alliance Delaware: https://www.housingalliancede.org/ and Delaware 2-1-1: https://delaware211.org/.
Q: Where do I apply for Medicaid, SNAP, or Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI)?
- Apply through Delaware ASSIST: https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/. For help comparing Medicare plans or understanding MSPs, contact DMAB: https://insurance.delaware.gov/dmab/.
Q: Can I get help paying my Medicare drug costs?
- Yes. Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) can lower premiums and copays. Apply with Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/. As of 2024, full Extra Help is available up to 150% FPL; see SSA for details.
Q: I lost food in a power outage. Can SNAP replace those benefits?
- SNAP may replace benefits when food is lost due to a power outage or disaster. Contact Delaware DSS quickly to report the loss and ask about required forms and deadlines: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/. Keep outage dates and any proof (utility notice, photos).
Q: Who can help me choose a Medicare plan in Delaware?
- The Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau (DMAB) provides free, unbiased counseling: https://insurance.delaware.gov/dmab/.
Q: How do I get rides to the doctor if I can’t drive?
- Check DART Paratransit and Reduced Fare: https://dartfirststate.com/. If you have Medicaid, review your health plan’s transportation benefits via DMMA managed care info: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/.
Q: Is there a property tax break for seniors in Delaware?
- . The Senior School Property Tax Credit can lower school taxes for eligible homeowners age 65+. Rules can change; see official details and application steps: https://finance.delaware.gov/senior-relief/.
Q: I’m a veteran. Where do I start for benefits or long-term care?
- Contact the Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs: https://veteransaffairs.delaware.gov/. Local VA health care: Wilmington VA Medical Center: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/. Aid and Attendance pension info: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/.
Q: Are there supports for LGBTQ+ older adults in Delaware?
- Yes. CAMP Rehoboth offers community programs: https://www.camprehoboth.com/. For national support and referrals, see SAGE’s hotline: https://www.sageusa.org/resource/sage-lgbt-elder-hotline/.
Q: I live in a rural area. How can I do telehealth without home internet?
- Ask your local public library about borrowing a mobile hotspot: https://delawarelibraries.org/hotspots. Some senior centers also provide internet access for telehealth visits.
Resource directory (statewide links)
- Delaware 2‑1‑1 (referrals to local help): https://delaware211.org/
- DEMA (disaster info): https://dema.delaware.gov/
- FEMA Individual Assistance: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
- DHSS – Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD): https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/
- DSAAPD – Adult Protective Services: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/aps.html
- DSAAPD – ADRC: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html
- DSAAPD – Caregiver Support: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/caregiver.html
- DSAAPD – Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/ltcom.html
- DHSS – Division of Social Services (SNAP, cash assistance): https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/
- Delaware ASSIST (apply for benefits): https://assist.dhss.delaware.gov/
- DHSS Energy Assistance (LIHEAP/DEAP): https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dss/energy.html
- DNREC Weatherization Assistance Program: https://dnrec.delaware.gov/energy-climate/energy-efficiency-weatherization/weatherization-assistance-program/
- DSHA (housing programs): https://www.destatehousing.com/
- Housing Alliance Delaware (shelter/housing coordination): https://www.housingalliancede.org/
- Food Bank of Delaware: https://www.fbd.org/
- Delaware Dept. of Agriculture – Farmers’ Markets: https://agriculture.delaware.gov/marketing-and-promotion/farmers-markets/
- Meals on Wheels Delaware: https://mealsonwheelsde.org/
- Delaware Medicaid (DMMA): https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dmma/
- Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau (DMAB): https://insurance.delaware.gov/dmab/
- Social Security Extra Help: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp/
- DART First State (paratransit, reduced fares): https://dartfirststate.com/
- Lifeline phone/internet discount: https://www.lifelinesupport.org/
- FCC ACP updates: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
- Legal help: CLASI – https://www.clasi.org/; LSCD – https://www.lscd.com/; DVLS – https://www.dvls.org/
- Delaware DOJ Consumer Protection: https://attorneygeneral.delaware.gov/fraud/cpu/
- HUD housing counselors: https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor
- Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs: https://veteransaffairs.delaware.gov/
- Wilmington VA Medical Center: https://www.va.gov/wilmington-health-care/
- CAMP Rehoboth (LGBTQ+): https://www.camprehoboth.com/
- Delaware Libraries Hotspots: https://delawarelibraries.org/hotspots
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/
Disclaimer
Program rules, funding, and contact details can change. Always confirm the latest information with the agency or program linked in this guide. If you spot an error or a broken link, please check the official agency site and consider notifying them.
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 Verified: August 2025
- 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.