Delaware releases first Statewide Disaster Housing Strategy

The Disaster Housing Strategy outlines a coordinated approach to ensure displaced residents have access to stable housing after emergencies. (Photo: DSHA)

In a move to improve emergency preparedness and long-term recovery efforts, the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) has released the state’s first Disaster Housing Strategy, a framework aimed at guiding housing recovery in the aftermath of natural and man-made disasters.

The strategy outlines a coordinated approach to ensure displaced residents have access to stable housing after emergencies. Developed with support from the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), the strategy reflects a broader state initiative launched in 2023 to enhance disaster preparedness by promoting partnerships, identifying resources, and fostering interagency collaboration.

“The Disaster Housing Strategy will improve the state’s ability to provide housing support for displaced residents by educating decision makers on the steps needed to address short- and long-term housing needs in the wake of a disaster, and by identifying partners, capacities, available resources, and capabilities before disaster strikes,” said DSHA Director Matthew J. Heckles.

The strategy details six core goals spanning interim housing deployment, housing reconstruction, and tailored support for vulnerable populations. It also clarifies the roles and responsibilities of government agencies, nonprofits, and community organizations during different phases of disaster housing recovery.

“The strategy is a framework to guide state and local governments, nonprofit organizations, and community group leaders on coordinating effective housing recovery efforts if disaster strikes,” Heckles said. “With guidance from the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, it encourages decision makers to prepare for emergencies and ensures that displaced residents have an equitable path toward stable housing after a disaster and that aid is distributed fairly across the state.”

A central feature of the initiative is the Disaster Housing Task Force (DHTF), a multi-sector coalition of public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders. The task force was instrumental in developing the strategy and serves as a vehicle for collaboration, resource-sharing, and streamlined communication among disaster recovery partners.

To address specific aspects of housing recovery more effectively, DSHA plans to expand the task force by establishing subcommittees and recruiting new partners. State officials hope the strategy will evolve as a “living document,” shaped by ongoing engagement with community members and housing experts.

“We are proud of the collaboration and hard work that went into creating this strategy,” Heckles added. “It is a living document, and DSHA will continue to add to its repertoire of housing-related resources as it strengthens existing partnerships and creates new ones.”

Officials say the strategy is intended not only to raise awareness across Delaware, but also to inspire action and serve as a reference for other agencies working to enhance disaster resilience in their communities.