Delaware Rural 'Hope Center' Initiative

Summary

Funds two new Rural Hope Centers in Kent and Sussex Counties, modeled after New Castle County’s homeless-integrated-care hub, to address rural health disparities and workforce shortages. The initiative prioritizes technological innovation, value-based care, and data tracking, with milestones for site acquisition and operational launch. Award is via direct agreement and not a competitive RFP.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants are county and municipal government entities, or locally recognized community health providers and organizations, located in Sussex or Kent County, Delaware. Applicants must demonstrate capacity to manage integrated care delivery and coordination for rural populations, including partnerships with local stakeholders and providers. Preference given to those with measurable outcomes in homeless services, behavioral health, and primary care integration.

Requirements Checklist

• Applicants must secure a facility site in Sussex or Kent County by 6/30/2026, establish partnerships with a minimum of five rural healthcare and community organizations by project completion, integrate care coordination services for rural and underserved residents, and commit to a sustainability plan incorporating fee-for-service and subsidized care. Attachments must include a project plan, a partnership declaration, operations budget, sustainability commitments, and documentation of readiness for facility acquisition/launch.

Required attachments