The federally funded Refugee Cash Assistance program helps individuals and families who have recently arrived in the United States and been granted refugee status meet essential needs during their first months in the country.
Cash and medical assistance are limited to eight months after arrival in the United States which means refugees must achieve self-sufficiency and adjust socially as quickly as possible. Delaware contracts with Jewish Family Services of Delaware to provide social services to refugees statewide.
Eligibility for Refugee Cash Assistance
To qualify for cash assistance, refugee families must meet eligibility requirements for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program and may receive benefits as permitted by the TANF program.
To qualify for Refugee cash benefits, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be responsible for a minor child related to you, or be in your ninth month of pregnancy.
- Be an 18-year-old high school student who will graduate before turning 19.
- Meet income and resource guidelines, which your DSS case manager will review.
Your case manager will explain any additional requirements based on your situation.
Social services, such as employment services, English as a second language, literacy, counseling, enculturation and case management may be provided to refugees, as needed, for five (5) years after arrival in the United States.
Apply for Refugee Cash Assistance
To speak with a DSS case manager about whether you are eligible for Refugee Cash assistance, visit a Delaware State Service Center, call 302-255-9040 or email DHSS_DSSC@delaware.gov.
You may also contact Jewish Family Services of Delaware.
Apply online through the ASSIST self-service portal or complete a paper application:
Important information about the Refugee Cash Assistance Program
Refugees come to the United States because they are unable or unwilling to return to their country of nationality because of persecution, or a well-founded fear or persecution. The President of the United States determines the number of refugees to be admitted to the country each year. Those given refugee status are placed by national voluntary agencies with local sponsors and receive social services, cash assistance and medical assistance for a limited time during their resettlement. This program is 100% federally funded.
