Whatcoat Social Services

A welcoming haven for all who may be displaced in our community

Whatcoat Social Services is committed to providing emergency shelter and critical resources for displaced members of our community. Our shelter offers a forty-five-day stay for men, women, and families. Vera’s Haven provides year-long transitional housing to low-income families that are dedicated to working toward growth and independence.

We strive to enhance the lives of those we serve by offering one-on-one case management that aims to break barriers while addressing individual needs.

About This Program

Whatcoat Social Services provides its surrounding community with resources that aid in support and stability. In addition to shelter and housing, Whatcoat Social Services has a clothing closet and provides food boxes upon request. There are no requirements to utilize these resources and can be accessed by appointment.
Give us a call to learn more!

Locations

Office
3 Vera Way Dover,
DE 19904
302-734-9775
Shelter
381 College Road 
Dover, DE 19904
Trauma-Informed
Sanctuary Model
Job Readiness
Housing Resources

We Provide Support

Whatcoat Social Services is committed to providing support and care to all in our community. With a wide array of services and resources available, we are committed to helping both individuals and families in finding their path toward growth and independence. 

45-Day Shelter
Our shelter houses men, women and families for up to 45 days. Our shelter is set up like a house, living room, kitchen and bedrooms. If single, you will have one roommate. To get into shelter, please contact the Housing Alliance at 1-833-346-3233.
Transitional Housing
The transitional housing program is open to low-income families with leasing agreements available for up to one year. Our townhouses are made up of both two and three-bedroom units that offer reduced rent. For more information and to inquire about waitlist eligibility, please contact the office
Food Pantry
Whatcoat’s food pantry is open to the community, with little to no requirements, food boxes and support are easy to obtain. To inquire about our food boxes please call our office at (302) 734-0319 and inform us of your time of pick-up, any allergies and the number of people in your family.
Clothing Closet
The clothing closet consists of mens, womens and childrens clothing at a wide variety of sizes. Our clothing closet is free and open to the community by appointment. To schedule an appointment for our clothing closet please call our office at (302) 734-0319.
Rapid Re-Housing
Rapid Re-Housing is a referral-based program that we offer here at Whatcoat. Rapid Re-Housing can assist in costs associated with security deposits, first month’s rent, utility deposits or general utility bills as well as any outstanding housing costs that may be preventing clients from obtaining housing. To inquire about a referral, please call the Housing Alliance at 1-833-346-3233
Referrals
Providing referrals to a variety of outside agencies and resources based off individual and familial needs. 

For more information on how Whatcoat Social Services can support you, call us today!

Frequently asked questions

How do I get into the shelter?
Anyone who is seeking shelter must call the Delaware Housing Alliance at 1-833-346-3233 for a referral.
How do I get a food box?
Food boxes are made available by appointment. Call our office today to learn more (302) 734-0319
How can I learn more information about Rapid Re-Housing?
Anyone seeking Rapid Re-Housing must call the Delaware Housing Alliance at 1-833-346-3233 to obtain a referral for the program.
How long can I stay in the shelter?
45 days 
As an immigrant do I have rights?
Civil and criminal protection is available to all. Undocumented immigrants, who have been victimized, may be eligible for protection under immigration laws. 
Can families stay together?
Yes, we do not separate families nor do we separate fathers from their families. Whatcoat welcomes family units as a whole.
How many people can be in the family?
Our rooms for families can accommodate up to three family members. If you are single, you will have a roommate. 
What does the shelter look like?
Our shelter is set up like a house. We have a living room for singles and one for families. We have both a kitchen and a dining area.
How much is the rent at Vera's Haven?
Monthly rent for a two-bedroom home is $409. A three-bedroom home is $509 per month.
How long is the transitional housing lease at Vera's Haven?
Up to one year. 

Still have questions?

Not sure if Whatcoat Social Services can provide the specific supports you may need? Give us a call today! 

Resources

Whatcoat Social Services works closely with attributed state programs and resources. If you are in need of additional information or assistance outside of our services, please refer to the contacts below. 

Delaware Housing Alliance
1-833-346-3233
Stand by Me
1-800-560-3372
Domestic Violence Hotline
(302) 422-8058
Social Services
(302) 857-5000
Domestic Violence Hotline
(302)422-8058
"211" for General Assistance
Call 211

How can you help?

Ongoing Needs

  • New Socks/ Undergarments
  • Soap
  • Toiletries
  • Gift cards
  • Backpacks
  • Paper products
  • School supplies
  • DART bus passes
  • Diapers and Pull-Ups
  • Dish detergent/sponges
  • Non-perishable food items

Get Involved!

Whatcoat Social Services graciously accepts support from our community and are in need of volunteers. To find out how you can make an impact in your community, give us a call today to learn more about our open volunteer opportunites.