Gov. John Carney yesterday celebrated the fifth anniversary of the State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP). The cross-agency effort has provided rental vouchers to 1,200 low-income Delawareans since its inception.
“We are providing a bridge to independence, helping more Delawareans live self-sufficient lives,” Carney said. “SRAP is a great example of how government agencies can work together to more efficiently deliver important services, and effectively help Delawareans in need.”
SRAP is not an open-ended housing program. It’s designed to assist vulnerable populations, such as youth aging out of foster care and people who are at risk of admission to long-term care institutions.
The Delaware State Housing Authority issues the vouchers. The Department of Health and Social Services refers clients. Clients must be referred by an agency of partner.
Over the last five years, more than 200 people have transitioned out of the program. That means they either pay their own rent or receive assistance from another source.
“This is about caring for the whole person – not just looking at one part of their needs at a time,” said DSHA Director Anas Ben Addi. “We heard from advocates that the lack of affordable housing is a barrier to many low-income people and families with special needs to live and be successful, and we responded. This partnership shows that it is possible to serve people better, with a better quality of life, while reducing public costs.”
