YWCA Delaware believes that all people have the right to safe and affordable housing
While homelessness is a complex issue with various contributing factors, YWCA Delaware believes that everyone has the right to safe and affordable housing. Since 1898, YWCA Delaware has been a safe-haven for women seeking safe lodging while working to achieve their full potential. Last year, YWCA Delaware served over 630 women and families who experienced housing insecurity. Today, the need to advocate for safe and affordable housing continues.
During Homelessness Awareness Month and every day, we work hard to empower women by addressing and eliminating violence against women and discriminatory practices that hinder their progress and well-being. We do this by advocating for equal rights and opportunities, providing financial counseling, educational entrepreneurship and career development workshops, and sharing information and resources to help women and families who are struggling to find and maintain affordable housing.
How to Obtain a Referral to Emergency Housing
If you are homeless or are at imminent risk of becoming homeless, email intake@housingalliancede.org with your circumstance and contact information or dial 1-833-3446-3233. Call back daily for updates on recentl available beds.
If you reason for homelessness is related to escaping domestic violence or sexual assault, please call our 24/7 SARC helpline at 800-773-8570. Our Sexual Assault Response Center is provides:
- 24/7 supportive counseling
- Medical and legal accompaniment
- Access to support groups
- Information and referrals to our vital services
Rental Resources
View List of Current Rental Units
RENTAL SEARCH
Additional Rental Search Contacts:
Catholic Charities: 302-655-9624 or BasicNeeds@ccwilm.org
New Castle County Office
2601 W 4th Street
Wilmington, DE 19805
302-655-9624
Tenants’ Rights
Whether you’re renting your first apartment or you’ve been a tenant for years, understanding your tenant rights is an essential part of maintaining security, fairness, and peace of mind in your home. Knowing your tenant rights also helps with the following:
- Legal Protection: Your rights are your shield against unfair practices.
- Fair Treatment: Don’t settle for anything less than respect and equality.
- Security & Stability: Know your lease terms and eviction rights for peace of mind.
- Dispute Resolution: Resolve issues amicably or seek legal recourse if needed.
- Financial Protection: Avoid overcharges and unfair deductions.
- Health & Safety: Demand a safe and sanitary living environment.
- Empowerment: Stand up for your rights as a tenant.
- Compliance: Ensure your landlord follows the law.
- Financial Planning: Budget wisely with full awareness of your housing costs.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTSderechos y deberes de los inquilinos
Bill of Rights for People Experiencing Homelessness
The Bill of Rights for People Experiencing Homelessness provides persons experiencing homelessness protection from discrimination when seeking housing, employment, and temporary shelter. The bill also provides essential legal and civil protections to ensure equal treatment during the use of public spaces and buildings.
What To Do If You Are Facing An Eviction
If you are facing eviction, it’s important to take prompt and proactive steps to address the situation.
GET EVICTION HELP
HOW TO FILE AND DEFEND A SUMMARY POSSESSION ACTION
RIGHT TO COUNSEL FACT SHEET
Utility Assistance
If you are facing financial hardship that makes it difficult to cover your utility bills, it’s essential to act promptly. Unforeseen events like job loss, medical expenses, or other emergencies can impact your ability to pay utilities.
DELMARVA BILL PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
LOW INCOME HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
YW’s Community Health Workers are available to help assist all New Castle County Residents with the following:
- Accessing basic needs such as food, transportation, clothing and applying for state benefits
- Community healthcare coordination and assement
- Free educational training and career readiness support
- Health education, health literacy and prevention services
sCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH A COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER
Homeowner Repair Program
The Department of Real Estate and Housing is pleased to work with city property owners to improve their homes and neighborhoods through Homeowner Repair Program, funded through the Neighborhood Stabilization Fund.
Funding for this program will be distributed through two lotteries. The first will be held in December and the second will be held in March of 2024.
Applicants must call the City’s Customer Service Center by dialing 311 to register for the program.
LEARN MORE
Money Management Assistance
Attending one of YW’s financial and/or career counseling workshops is an investment in your future. Get the tools and understanding to make informed financial decisions, reduce stress, and work toward your financial and career goals!
Did you know YWCA Delaware offers clients a free tri-merge (3-in1) credit report? Email empower@ywcade.org to learn more. This report includes a comprehensive overview of your credit history across all three bureaus, including Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Whether you’re applying to rent an apartment, applying for a job, or applying for a mortgage or car loan – your credit history may be reviewed as part of the application process. By reviewing a tri-merge report, you can be prepared for these situations and ensure that your credit information is accurate and favorable.
Reviewing a tri-merge report provides valuable insights to help you take the necessary steps to improve your credit profile, which can lead to better interest rates and financial opportunities. It’s also a great way to:
- Detect signs of identity theft or unauthorized accounts and a better chance of identifying and disputing any inaccuracies or inconsistencies across all three bureaus
- See your credit information from each bureau, which can be useful when a lender prefers one credit bureau’s data over another.
- Compare your credit scores from each bureau and understand the factors contributing to variations.
FREE WORKSHOP
Available Housing for Veterans
Veterans may be eligible for financial support, housing vouchers, and other resources to help secure stable and affordable housing.
VIEW VETERAN HOUSING RESOURCES
What To Do If You Are Facing Foreclosure
There are legal protections and rights in place for homeowners facing foreclosure, and seeking help can ensure that these rights are upheld. Professional assistance can help you understand and assert your legal rights in the foreclosure process. In some cases it may be possible to create a financial plan to get back on track with your mortgage payments, negotiate with your lender for a mortgage modification, or avoid foreclosure by exploring alternative options.
