DELAWARE STATE HOUSING AUTHORITY EXTENDS THE LENGTH OF RENTAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
DEHAP Program Increases from 15 Months to 18 Months

Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) announced today that eligible Delaware renters can now receive up to 18 months of rental and utility assistance through its Delaware Housing Assistance Program (DEHAP).

Previously, the DEHAP provided 15 months of rental and utility assistance. The additional three months will give extra time for eligible Delaware renters in need to reduce the risk of eviction, housing instability, or financial insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We're proud to announce this update to the DEHAP program," said Eugene R. Young, Jr., Director of the Delaware State Housing Authority. "While the difference of three months may seem negligible to some, we know that it makes a world of difference for Delawareans in need."

Applicants who have already met the prior 15-month limit can re-apply for the additional three months and are encouraged to visit their DEHAP portal profile via [decovidhousinghelp.com]decovidhousinghelp.com or contact the DEHAP Call Center at (866) 935-0407 for further information and reapplication guidance.

Those who seek to start a new application or check program eligibility can do so by visiting [decovidhousinghelp.com]decovidhousinghelp.com, texting "RentHelp" to (302) 204 -5676, or contact one of the 15 DEHAP community navigator organizations throughout the state for application assistance.

The current version of the DEHAP was launched in March 2021 to provide emergency housing assistance to renters affected by shutdowns, closures, layoffs, reduced work hours, unpaid leave, or financial hardship related to the COVID-19 health crisis. The program assists with rental arrears from April 2020 and up to three months of prospective rent or security deposits up to $2,000/month. DEHAP can also cover utilities due to the landlord, late fees, and court fees. Per U.S. Department of the Treasury guidance, participants can request up to three months of assistance at a time.

Since its launch, DEHAP has dispersed over $55 million in rent and utility assistance, helping close to 10,000 Delawareans. DEHAP is funded through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which the U.S. Department of the Treasury distributed to Delaware in December 2020 and March 2021.

"DEHAP is a considerable asset for our state. So, if you're looking for a sign to apply, this is it. The program is available, and DSHA is eager to help you as we all recover from the effects of the pandemic," Young said.

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About Delaware State Housing Authority

The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA), formed in 1968, is dedicated to providing quality, affordable housing opportunities and appropriate supportive services to low- and moderate-income Delawareans. In addition to its role as the State's Housing Finance Agency, DSHA is unique in that it also serves as a Public Housing Authority and acts as a Community Development and Planning Agency. As a Public Housing Authority, DSHA receives funding from HUD to build, own and operate public housing in Kent and Sussex counties, two of Delaware's three counties. For more information about DSHA, please call (302) 739-4263 or visit destatehousing.com.