New supportive housing for homeless and former foster youth opens in Sussex Co.

The new building offers housing to homeless or fostered individuals aged 18 to 23.

GREENWOOD — A first-of-its-kind housing program for homeless and former foster youth has officially opened in Sussex County, marking a major step forward in addressing youth homelessness in southern Delaware.

The West End Neighborhood House celebrated the grand opening of Life Lines South on Monday.

The program, located in a renovated former bed and breakfast in Greenwood, offers ten private efficiency units for young adults aged 18 to 23.

It is the only supportive housing program of its kind in Sussex County, providing not just shelter, but also on-site case management and wraparound services aimed at guiding youth toward independence and long-term stability.

“Life Lines South is a milestone for Delaware—bringing critical housing and support services to young people in Sussex County who have aged out of foster care or are experiencing homelessness,” said Paul Calistro, executive director of the West End Neighborhood House.

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The event was also a homecoming of sorts for more than two dozen members of the Mennonite community with family ties to the former inn, adding a deeply personal note to the day’s celebrations.

The new facility addresses a longstanding service gap in the region.

Previously, only 16 supportive housing beds existed across Kent and Sussex Counties for homeless or at-risk youth. Life Lines South builds on the success of West End’s existing Life Lines program, which has supported over 100 youth statewide and operates 33 housing units in Wilmington.

This expansion was made possible thanks to more than $2.5 million in capital support from more than 10 donors.

With demand already high and a waiting list in place, Life Lines South is set to become a cornerstone of youth housing and support in southern Delaware.