Help for Single Mothers in Delaware

Last Updated on February 1, 2024 by Lori Pace

Delaware is fifth on the list of the 10 states that have the highest GDP per person, with a GDP average of $63,664. Despite this, Delaware has not turned its back on low-income families. Many programs will take care of single mothers and their children. You will find below a list that includes programs to help single mothers in Delaware.

Medicaid Program

Delaware, like most other states in the United States, offers Medicaid as a free program to those with low income. Health Delaware is a free state program that provides individuals with high-quality, low-cost health insurance.

You can apply for Delaware Medicaid by visiting Choose Delaware Health. There you’ll find all the information you need, including how to apply and how much you’ll pay each month. If you reside in Delaware, if you are a US Citizen or a US national, if you’re not incarcerated, and unless your employer offers affordable health insurance, you may apply.

Healthy Children Program

Delaware Healthy Children Program aims to provide low-income kids with insurance who were not eligible for Medicaid, but could not afford private coverage. The program is available to children who do not have insurance and are under 19 years old, live in Delaware, are US citizens or legal non-citizens, and meet income requirements.

Delaware Healthy Children Program offers high-quality insurance that includes prescription drugs, routine checks, immunizations, and dental care. It also covers certain vision, hearing, and mental health services.

Child Care Subsidy Program

Delaware Child Care Subsidy Program offers childcare subsidies to families with income eligibility who are in need of financial assistance. Children under 13 years of age are eligible for childcare services. 

The Division of Social Services will determine eligibility based on the family’s needs and income. Currently, the income limit is at 185% FPL. You may still be eligible for childcare if your child has special needs and is older than 13. Choose your childcare provider among:

  • The State licenses childcare centers
  • The State of California has licensed a family childcare home

Unemployment Insurance

The Delaware Division of Unemployment Insurance administers Delaware’s Unemployment Insurance Program. The program aims to help those who face unemployment for no fault of theirs. However, it is a requirement for them to be able to find work in suitable employment.

Delaware Unemployment Insurance Application Process

  • Meet the eligibility requirements – These requirements include: that you have lost your job without fault, that you have earned enough money during your base period in order to be financially eligible, and you are willing, able, and ready to work full-time.
  • Apply for unemployment benefits – You can file your initial claim either online at the Delaware official website, or by phone in Delaware. Call 302-761-6576 to file by telephone if you reside in New Castle County or 800-794-3032 for those who do not.
  • Calculate the amount of your benefit and its duration – You will receive a Monetary Decision after your initial claim has been processed. You can receive benefits in Delaware for up to 26 consecutive weeks. The maximum weekly benefit is $330 and the minimum is $20.
  • Delaware pays benefits either by direct deposit or debit card – Delaware can pay benefits by direct deposit, debit card, or both. You will be asked at the time of signing up for benefits whether you want to receive payments by debit card or direct deposit.

Governor’s Education Grant For Working Adults

This grant provides up to $2,000 per academic year. This grant is only available to Delaware-based, not-for-profit institutions of higher learning and adult education programs in vocational-technical schools. The grant was designed to help underemployed adult students who are working to improve their skills and increase their earning power in current or future jobs.

The selection is based on the need. The grant covers 65 percent of tuition and fees up to $2000 per annum. The participating school will pay 10 percent, while the student or the employer is responsible for the remaining 25 percent.

Governor’s Education Grant For Unemployed Workers

This grant was designed to help unemployed adults who are seeking to improve their skills or learn new ones that will allow them to return to the workforce. The maximum grant for one year is $2,000 The grant can be used at three Adult Education Centres: New Castle County Vo-Tech Adult Education Division, Polytech Adult Education Division, and Sussex Tech Adult Division. 

The grant is also accepted by the Delaware College of Art and Design as well as Delaware State University. Delaware Technical and Community Colleges, Goldey-Beacom College, and Wilmington University. The student is responsible for the remaining 10%.

Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP)

Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP), a program of the Delaware Energy Assistance Program, provides one-time assistance for households that meet income eligibility requirements to help them meet home energy needs. Income eligibility is determined by 200% of federal poverty levels. DEAP (also known as LIHEAP) offers eligible households the following support:

  • Fuel Assistance Program
  • Energy Crisis Intervention Program
  • Summer Cooling Assistance Program

DEAP is administered through Catholic Charities, Inc., so applicants can call their local office for more information on how to apply. The Delaware Weatherization Assistance Program, administered by Catholic Charities, Inc., is also available to households eligible for DEAP.

Bottom Line: Help For Single Mothers In Delaware

There is a big variety to choose from when it comes to asking for assistance. The federal government and nonprofits work hard to support the community they are in, the best that they can. To learn more about other assistance offered to help single mothers in the state of Delaware, visit these articles:

Lori Pace
Lori Pace

Lori Pace is a single mother of three daughters ages 7 and under. As a working mom from home, she balances kids, work and two crazy dogs with humor and love. Follow Lori as she honestly gives tips and advice based on her own experiences as a single mom!