Delaware Today: What Matters for Families, Health, and Community

By Judy, Director of Care Coordination
Steps Homecare Services | CHAP-Accredited Excellence in Delaware

Delaware is more than just the First State it’s a place where families grow, communities connect, and everyday life unfolds with its own unique challenges and opportunities. For residents, especially those caring for loved ones or planning for the future, staying informed about local issues isn’t just news it’s part of making smart decisions for health, safety, and wellbeing.

1. Flu Season on the Rise — Health Precautions Matter

This winter, Delaware is seeing a noticeable increase in influenza activity, driven in part by a new flu variant continuing to spread through the region. Local health officials are urging residents, especially older adults and those with underlying conditions , to stay up to date with vaccinations and practice good hygiene to prevent illness.

For families and caregivers, this means being extra vigilant about symptoms and supporting loved ones who may be more vulnerable during peak flu activity.

2. Budget Priorities: Funding Health, Schools, and Support Services

In the summer of 2025, the Delaware Senate passed a $6.5 billion operating budget for fiscal year 2026 that maintains investments in education, health care, and community services. Among the highlights:

Increased funding for mental health support in schools
Expanded school growth and literacy initiatives
Sustained core funding without raising income taxes, a priority for many working families across the state.

For caregivers and family members, strong state investment in public health infrastructure and education can translate to greater access to resources and support systems.

3. Elections Are Coming — Civic Participation Matters

Delaware is gearing up for a busy election year in 2026, with both U.S. Senate and state legislative elections on the horizon. These races matter for residents of all ages and backgrounds because the leaders elected will be responsible for shaping policies on health care, public safety, taxes, and community services.

Whether it’s federal or local offices, staying informed and engaged helps Delawareans have a voice in decisions that affect daily life.

4. Environmental and Infrastructure Planning: Looking Ahead

Delaware recently released an updated Climate Action Plan that outlines strategies for reducing emissions, protecting communities from extreme weather, and investing in clean energy jobs.

Meanwhile, the state has launched a task force to secure sustainable funding for transportation infrastructure, ensuring bridges, roads, and public transit networks remain strong and reliable for future generations.

These efforts matter for families who rely on safe roads and resilient communities as they age in place or care for loved ones.

5. Small Business Growth Fuels Local Opportunity

Delaware exceeded its goal of distributing more than $14 million in federal small business funding, supporting entrepreneurs and job creators across the state.

Local economic growth can have a ripple effect: stronger jobs, increased community investment, and improved services that benefit everyone, including seniors and caregivers.

What This Means for You and Your Family

At Steps Homecare Services, we believe that good care extends beyond the home. Understanding what’s happening in Wilmington and throughout Delaware helps families stay prepared, stay healthy, and stay connected.

From flu season precautions to civic engagement and economic developments, these local matters shape the environment in which we all live, work, and care for one another. Awareness builds stronger communities, especially for those who rely on support, whether at home or within broader public systems.

Stay informed. Stay healthy. Stay connected.

📍 Steps Homecare Services
302-803-5354
admin@stepscenterde.com
Serving Wilmington, DE & surrounding communities

Care that feels like family. Support that feels like home.

JudyJanuary 9, 2026