Housing instability is a serious problem in Delaware caused in large part by a lack of affordable housing. Limited shelter beds make the issue worse, with many houseless families and individuals forced to sleep in uninhabitable spaces.

In 2021, 9,355 Delaware households experienced a housing crisis, according to the Housing Alliance of Delaware. In fact, the annual Point in Time Count, conducted in January 2021, showed a 35% increase in homelessness.

Many of the people experiencing homelessness include families with children. In Sussex County alone, there were 465 sheltered homeless people (adults and children)—a county that only has 25 units year-round of emergency shelter beds (Housing Alliance of Delaware)

Delaware has a homelessness problem-- yet we aren’t investing in protecting these vulnerable populations. Delaware is one of six states with laws restricting sitting and lying down in particular public places and one of 16 states with laws restricting loitering, loafing, and vagrancy state-wide (National Homelessness Law Center).

H.O.M.E.S. Campaigns is fighting against homelessness and against discrimination for individuals experiencing homelessness. Let us know how you can get involved!