DELAWARE - Delaware Governor Matt Meyer signed an executive order on April 17 to create a new group focused on reducing homelessness across the state. The signing took place at the New Castle County HOPE Center, which offers shelter and services for people without housing.
The Delaware Interagency Collaborative to End Homelessness is a 15-member group that will advise the governor, review programs and services and recommend changes to how state agencies and local groups work together. The group will also explore using models like the HOPE Center in other counties, including Kent and Sussex.
Meyer said rising housing costs are forcing more families and children out of stable homes.
“We are witnessing a troubling rise in homelessness across Delaware, especially among children and families,” said Meyer. “The rent is too damn high for everyone, housing costs are rising and too many Delawareans are being priced out of stability. We must expand affordable housing options, remove barriers, and ensure that every person in our state has access to a safe and secure home.”
The collaborative will be led by Matthew Heckles, the director of the Delaware State Housing Authority, who will hold public meetings. The effort builds on a similar council that ended in 2018. Heckles said more is needed beyond shelter.
“Many Delawareans are doing great work to address homelessness, but efforts are fragmented throughout the state. We know that sheltering alone can prolong homelessness if it isn’t coupled with housing stability and wraparound services – this is, ultimately, what works,” Heckles said.
The order sets a goal to reduce homelessness by half and end youth homelessness within the next five years. Data from the 2025 Point-in-Time Count shows 1,585 people in Delaware were without housing. More than 27 percent were children. The total is up 16 percent from the previous year.