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Delaware

These resources – like the public health crisis itself – are constantly evolving and are only current as to the date of publication. This page was last updated on May 14, 2020.

For more up-to-date information on the relief programs available in Delaware, we recommend that you visit the state's COVID-19 Reponse website.

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Description of Program and Relief

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

The Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP) assists low-income families that need help in meeting their home energy costs. There are three main programs:

(1) Fuel Assistance, which helps with home energy bills from the period of October 1–March 31. This includes grants to help pay for home heating, including electricity, natural gas, kerosene, propane, coal, and wood. Grants are available to both homeowners and renters;

(2) Crisis Assistance, which helps households in crisis during the winter months; and

(3) Summer Cooling Assistance Program, which operates during the period of June 1–August 31. This program helps pay for electricity to cool homes with air conditioning during the summer months. Relief may either come in the form of a grant to offset high electricity costs or receipt of a room-sized air conditioning unit.

Although no specific guidance has been issued with respect to COVID-19, affected individuals may qualify if they meet certain eligibility requirements (below).

Government or Lead Agency

Delaware Division of State Service Centers

Dates Available

Effective immediately

Eligibility Requirements/Restrictions

The programs are available to families and individuals with an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Please check here for reference to the Division of Social Services’ Income Eligibility tables. In addition, for those seeking relief through the Crisis Assistance Program, an individual must show they are experiencing a crisis (e.g., shut-off notice, out of fuel, no money to pay for fuel, etc.).

Application Deadlines (If Applicable)

Not applicable.

Contact for More Information

Please visit here for more information.

Please contact the following Catholic Charities, which help administer the programs, depending on the county you reside:

(1) Kent County: (302)-674-1782

(2) New Castle County: (302) 654-9295

(3) Sussex County: (302)-856-6310

List of Additional Information

For additional information please visit Delaware’s Division of State Services Centers here: https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/main/about.htm.


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