Help in Vermont
For people starting over after prison, foster care, treatment, homelessness, abuse, or trafficking
We've verified 21 places in Vermont, most of them in Burlington, Rutland and Montpelier, plus 11 that serve the whole state. The most help we've found here is for people after prison or jail (12) and after treatment and in recovery (12).
Vermont 211
Free, confidential information and referral line for any need in Vermont, from food and shelter to recovery and legal help. Dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898211 and a specialist searches the statewide database with you.
Youth Development Program (YDP)
Vermont's statewide extended care program for teens and young adults ages 14 up to 23 who have been in DCF foster care. Youth Development Coordinators in all 12 DCF districts provide case management, Youth Investment Grants, an Independent Living Stipend, Adult Living Partner payments for caregivers of youth over 18, and Foster Youth to Independence housing vouchers through VSHA.
Spectrum Youth & Family Services
Burlington agency for young people ages 12–30 with a drop-in center for ages 14–25, emergency shelter and transitional housing for ages 16–24, a free health clinic, counseling, job skills, and mentoring. Spectrum also hosts the Chittenden and Franklin County Youth Development Coordinators for former foster youth.
Legal Services Vermont / Vermont Legal Aid Helpline
Free civil legal help for low-income Vermonters on housing, benefits, family, health, debt, and victim issues. Leave a message on the helpline or fill out the online Legal Help Request Form; staff call back within about 5 to 10 days and free interpreters are provided.
Vermont Vital Records Office
Certified Vermont birth certificates cost $10 and are available from any Town or City Clerk, by mail with the application form, or online through the Vermont State Archives portal for a $2 processing fee. Only family members, legal guardians, certain court-appointed parties, or their legal representatives can order, and valid ID is required.
Vermont DMV Non-Driver Identification Card
State photo ID for Vermont residents who do not drive, issued at DMV offices with proof of identity and Vermont residency. A REAL ID version needs identity, Social Security number, residency, and lawful status documents.
3SquaresVT and Benefits Service Center
Vermont's SNAP program and the Benefits Service Center that handles applications for food, health, and cash assistance. Apply online through the myBenefits portal or request paper Form 202 by phone; households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level generally qualify.
National lines that work in Vermont
SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential treatment referral for substance use and mental health. Finds local programs that take your insurance or none.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 for any mental health or substance use crisis. Available to anyone in any program.
Lifeline free phone program
Free or discounted phone and service for people on Medicaid, SNAP, SSI, or low income. Apply online or through a carrier.
National Human Trafficking Hotline
24/7 confidential hotline for survivors of trafficking and people who suspect it. Connects to vetted local services.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
24/7 confidential help for anyone affected by domestic violence. Advocates connect you to local shelters and legal help.
Start right where you are
Each program has a step-by-step checklist for the first 72 hours, 30 days, and 90 days, so you always know your next step.