Delaware State Housing Authority

The subcommittee meeting served as a kickoff to discuss the actualization and implementation of phase one recommendations related to the collaborative roadmap. Key discussion topics included the subcommittee's charge, establishing potential goals for future projects, and the importance of long-term stability in addressing chronic homelessness. Members reviewed the three main pillars of the collaborative roadmap: improving the state's outreach reach, expanding emergency shelter and navigation models, and creating sustainable pathways for long-term housing stability.

The inaugural meeting focused on the vision and goals of the Coordinated Entry Subcommittee, specifically addressing the need for a more accessible, coordinated homelessness response system. Key discussion points included the importance of 24/7 access to services, the need for direct shelter entry, providing reliable transportation for those in need, and the potential benefits of localized, county-based coordinated systems. Participants emphasized that the current system needs to be better aligned with the practical realities of individuals experiencing homelessness.

The meeting focused on the kickoff of a pilot program for zoning and land use reform, featuring updates on special projects and technical assistance. Key discussion topics included an overview of the program timeline, the development of an interactive online platform for public engagement, a fiscal health analysis of residential development patterns, and a mapping analysis regarding housing types permitted by zoning. Additionally, presentations were conducted to debunk myths surrounding density and to differentiate between market-rate and subsidized affordable housing.

The 2026 Annual Action Plan for Delaware outlines specific programs and funding allocations for housing and community development needs, aligning with the broader 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan goals. Key priorities include enabling sustainable homeownership through assistance and rehabilitation, expanding and preserving affordable rental housing, mitigating homelessness and increasing access to supportive housing, preventing foreclosures, and supporting local community development initiatives.

This document provides a recap of Phase 1 reports for the Delaware Interagency Collaborative to End Homelessness, outlining its foundational process and future implementation strategies. It details the collaborative's approach, which involved cross-agency engagement, data and system assessment, community voice, and external expert input. The delivered Phase 1 roadmap focuses on immediate system improvements and long-term infrastructure, specifically targeting expanded outreach and coordinated intake, enhanced emergency shelter and navigation, and the establishment of pathways for long-term housing stability. Future implementation will be driven by ten subcommittees structured across the homelessness continuum, with key focus areas including decreasing disproportionality, data and outcomes, youth homelessness, emergency shelter (Code Purple) evaluation, and supportive services for special populations, aiming to transition from recommendations to concrete actions to end homelessness.