Vermont Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is a practical, no‑fluff hub focused on community support organizations, churches, and charities in Vermont that help single mothers with urgent needs like food, diapers, transportation, small cash help for utilities or rent arrears, home repairs, and shelter. It does not cover state or federal benefit programs except as “Plan B” options when a charitable route is exhausted.

Note: Amounts, hours, and eligibility below come from the organizations’ own pages or Vermont’s official directories. Always call ahead; funding can run out and policies change quickly. Citations at the end of each section show where every number came from.

Quick Help Box (start here)

• Call 2‑1‑1 for a live person to search local charities for you, 24/7. You can also text your ZIP code to 898211 (Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.). Vermont 211 is run by United Ways of Vermont. (vermont211.org)
• Burlington/Chittenden County: For same‑day basic needs, go in person to COTS (families) or Daystation (adults), or to JUMP (Thursday/Friday mornings). Phones: 802‑864‑7402 (COTS), 802‑862‑7776 (Waystation), 802‑862‑4501 (JUMP). (cotsonline.org)
• Catholic Charities (statewide) takes emergency‑aid appointments for food cards, utilities, rent/security deposits. Phones: South Burlington 802‑658‑6111; Rutland 802‑773‑3379. (vtcatholiccharities.org, vtcatholiccharities.org)
• Salvation Army (free dinners, food boxes, limited emergency aid). Burlington: 802‑864‑6991; Rutland: 802‑775‑5150. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org, campsebago.org)
• Food today: Feeding Champlain Valley food shelf in Burlington (Mon–Fri) and in Middlebury; Upper Valley Haven’s Community Food Market (White River Jct.). Phones: 802‑658‑7939 x23 (Burlington food shelf desk), 800‑585‑2265 (VeggieVanGo produce events), 802‑295‑6500 (Upper Valley Haven). (feedingchamplainvalley.org, vtfoodbank.org, uppervalleyhaven.org)
• Addison & Central VT shelter and family help: John Graham Housing & Services (24/7 line 802‑877‑2677) and Charter House Coalition (open 24/7; 802‑989‑8621). (johngrahamshelter.org, chcvt.org)
• Washington/Orange counties shelter: Good Samaritan Haven intake 802‑479‑2294 (call 7 a.m.–3 p.m. Mon–Fri). (goodsamaritanhaven.org)

Emergency section (life and safety)

• If you are out of options for the night, call 2‑1‑1 or the after‑hours state emergency housing line at 1‑800‑775‑0506 while you pursue a charity plan in the morning. Shelters statewide report over‑capacity; expect waits and ask each charity for a same‑day safety plan. (cotsonline.org)
• Domestic/sexual violence: Vermont statewide DV hotline 1‑800‑228‑7395; Chittenden County DV hotline 802‑658‑1996; sexual violence (HOPE Works) 802‑863‑1236. Charities can arrange emergency hotel placements or rapid rehousing funds for survivors. (burlingtonvt.gov, stepsvt.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Notes and sources: All amounts/hours in this table come from each charity’s latest public pages or Vermont 211 listings as of August–September 2025. See citations in the rightmost column.

Why this guide is different (content gaps we fix)

Most top search results list agencies but skip key details: dollar amounts, “how often,” exact hours, and realistic timelines. This guide fills those gaps with:

• Concrete dollar amounts (e.g., JUMP’s $50\ast \ast foodcardor\ast \ast$75 utility grant) and visit limits.
• Specific days/hours and phone numbers for live humans.
• “What to do if this doesn’t work” after each section.
• Plan B options that don’t require state benefit enrollment.

We verified each figure and date against the organizations’ own pages or official directories updated in 2024–2025. (search.vermont211.org, feedingchamplainvalley.org, vtfoodbank.org)

The Vermont reality in 2025 (so you can plan)

• Charitable food systems remain strained; Feeding Champlain Valley reported distributing roughly 2 million pounds of food, serving 8,532 individuals and 4,485 households, with over 222,735 meals/year. Expect lines and arrive early. (feedingchamplainvalley.org)
• In Chittenden County, COTS is often first stop for families; housing funds prioritized for those who would become or remain homeless without help. (cotsonline.org)
• Washington/Orange counties: Good Samaritan Haven’s shelters run full, with intakes only during business hours; call early. (goodsamaritanhaven.org)
• Addison County providers report increased unsheltered homelessness since state emergency motel limits tightened; expect waitlists at John Graham and busier community meals at Charter House. (wcax.com)

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How to use these organizations fast (by category)

1) Food today and this week

Most important action: Go where the doors are open daily.

• Feeding Champlain Valley (a CVOEO program): Burlington Food Access Center, 228 North Winooski Ave, offers seated breakfast Mon–Fri 9–11 a.m., grab‑and‑go meals 9 a.m.–2:30 p.m., and a choice pantry Mon–Fri 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Addison County pantry (Middlebury Food Hub, 616 Exchange St) is open Mon–Fri 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Chittenden residents may shop weekly; Addison residents monthly. Phone 802‑658‑7939 x23. (feedingchamplainvalley.org)
• Vermont Foodbank VeggieVanGo: free produce events (5–6 items per pickup), no income test or preregistration; call 800‑585‑2265 for locations/dates or ask 2‑1‑1. (vtfoodbank.org)
• Upper Valley Haven (White River Junction): Community Food Market offers one full grocery shop per month plus produce/bread on any open day. Hours: Mon–Thu 10–4:30; Fri 10–3. Phone 802‑295‑6500. (uppervalleyhaven.org)
• Salvation Army (Burlington): “Harvest Boxes” (emergency pantry) walk‑in Mon/Wed/Thu 10–2; Fri 11–2, plus free dinners Mon–Sat 5–6 p.m. Phone 802‑864‑6991. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org, search.vermont211.org)

Reality check: Food shelves may limit visits to ensure stock. Bring a reusable bag; ask about toiletries and diapers, which are often available only when donations allow. If a pantry is out, ask for a same‑day referral to another site or a VeggieVanGo event nearby. (vtfoodbank.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask the specialist to search pantries by open hour near your ZIP; many smaller church pantries open evenings or weekends. (vermont211.org)

2) Small dollar help for utilities, rent arrears, and deposits

Most important action: Call the charity that can schedule you fastest in your county. Be ready to email a bill or lease page the same day.

• Vermont Catholic Charities (statewide): Provides food cards and assistance with rent/security deposits and utility or fuel bills. Appointments via 802‑658‑6111 (S. Burlington) or 802‑773‑3379 (Rutland). Assistance is when funds are available; amounts vary by need. (vtcatholiccharities.org)
• JUMP – Joint Urban Ministry Project (Burlington): First‑come assistance Thu & Fri 9–11:30 a.m.; choice of $50\ast \ast grocerycard(Hannaford/CityMarket)or\ast \ast$75 utility payment, plus laundry and thrift vouchers. Limit once every three months; 15 households served each morning. Bring photo ID and a utility bill if requesting utility help. Phone 802‑862‑4501. (search.vermont211.org, jumpvt.org)
• COTS Housing Resource Center (Chittenden): Uses private funds for security deposits, back rent, short‑term subsidies, moving and utility assistance—after exploring other sources. Call 802‑864‑7402; walk‑ins 9–5 Mon–Fri at 95 North Ave (families prioritized). Funds limited; eligibility requires a concrete housing plan. (cotsonline.org)
• HOPE – Helping Overcome Poverty’s Effects (Addison County): Financial assistance for housing/utilities, emergency hotel rooms when no other options, plus a robust food shelf. Office & food shelf at 282 Boardman St, Middlebury. Phone 802‑388‑3608. Amounts vary by situation. (hope-vt.org)
• SEVCA (Windham/Windsor): Family Services can help set up power‑company payment arrangements and connect you to discounts; ask about flexible community funds if you have a disconnect notice. Local 802‑722‑4575; toll‑free 800‑464‑9951. (sevca.org)

Required documents (typical):

• Recent bill, shut‑off notice, or lease page with amount due.
• Photo ID and something showing your address.
• Proof of income (if requested) for the last 30 days.

Timelines:

• Same‑day decisions are possible at walk‑in sites (JUMP) if you arrive early.
• Appointment‑based charities (Catholic Charities) often respond within 1–3 business days; urgent fuel or power cases may be prioritized. (vtcatholiccharities.org, search.vermont211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility about hardship discounts and payment plans. Examples: Burlington Electric 12.5% discount for income‑qualified customers; Washington Electric Co‑op and VEC offer up to $45/month bill discounts under ACRE. Call 2‑1‑1 for the application link if you can’t find it. (jumpvt.org)

3) Shelter and safety

Most important action: Call before you travel; intakes are time‑limited.

• Good Samaritan Haven (Washington/Orange): Call intake 802‑479‑2294, Mon–Fri 7 a.m.–3 p.m. Seminary St. shelter offers up to 20 beds with daily evening meal; recovery‑oriented shelter on South Barre Road has 13 beds. (goodsamaritanhaven.org)
• John Graham Housing & Services (Addison): 24/7 line 802‑877‑2677; family shelter (9 rooms), food shelf on site, case management. Address 69 Main St, Vergennes. Expect a waitlist for family units; call any hour. (johngrahamshelter.org, search.vermont211.org)
• COTS (Chittenden): Families—go to Housing Resource Center (95 North Ave, 9–5). Adults—Daystation (95 North Ave, 9–5) and Waystation (overnight). Main line 802‑864‑7402; weekends Waystation 802‑862‑5418. (cotsonline.org)
• Charter House Coalition (Addison): Year‑round 24/7 emergency shelter near Middlebury green, plus daily community meals. Call 802‑989‑8621 or visit 27 N Pleasant St. (chcvt.org)

Reality check: Vermont’s shelter capacity is thin in 2025. Providers report rising unsheltered homelessness after winter protections ended and motel limits resumed. Ask each provider about safe‑place options (warming rooms/church hospitality) if beds are full. (goodsamaritanhaven.org, wcax.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑775‑0506 after hours; ask a provider to note your call as a “health/safety” concern if you are with children, pregnant, medically fragile, or fleeing violence. (vermont211.org, cotsonline.org)

4) Diapers and infant supplies

Most important action: Go to your regional Parent Child Center or ask your food shelf about diaper partners.

• Springfield Area Parent Child Center (Windsor/Windham): Diaper Bank—free diapers/wipes for local families; call 802‑886‑5242 or see “Diaper Bank” page to arrange pickup. (sapcc-vt.org)
• Sunrise Family Resource Center (Bennington County): Community Diaper Bank, Mon–Fri 8:30–4:30, 244 Union St, Bennington. 802‑442‑6934. (sunrisepcc.com)
• Joseph’s House Parish Outreach (Chittenden): Baby items (diapers/wipes) when available; call 802‑951‑4290 for appointment (113 Elmwood Ave, Burlington). (josephshousevt.org, vtvictimresources.com)

Background: Vermont’s large volunteer diaper bank closed in 2023; distribution transitioned to the 15 Parent Child Centers. Call your local center via 2‑1‑1. (mynbc5.com, nationaldiaperbanknetwork.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your pediatric clinic or WIC office to connect you to a faith community’s “baby closet” or a church‑run closet in your town (many operate informally). (vermont211.org)

5) Transportation to keep a job or get to childcare

Most important action: If you are in Reach Up or working with DCF, ask about Good News Garage immediately.

• Good News Garage – Wheels to Work: Repairs donated cars and awards them to families referred through Reach Up. Ask your Reach Up caseworker to refer you. VT office: 331A N Winooski Ave, Burlington. 802‑864‑3667. (goodnewsgarage.org)
• Ready To Go (Good News Garage): Van rides to work and childcare for eligible families statewide (often via Reach Up; some partner programs too). General line 802‑864‑3667; toll‑free 877‑448‑3288. (search.vermont211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Dial 2‑1‑1 and ask about local church gas vouchers or bus pass assistance; JUMP and some parishes provide bus passes or $25 gas cards as donations allow. (jumpvt.org)

6) Home repairs (safety issues for homeowners)

Most important action: If you own your home and have a health/safety repair, call COVER Home Repair first.

• COVER Home Repair (Windsor/Windham/Orange): Volunteer‑led urgent repairs and weatherization. Income limits (monthly, before tax): 1 person $3,500\ast \ast ;2\ast \ast$4,000; 3 $4,500\ast \ast ;4\ast \ast$5,000; 5 $5,400, etc. Homeowner contribution toward materials requested but not required if unable. Call 802‑296‑7241 x6. (coverhomerepair.org)
• Central Vermont Habitat for Humanity – Home Preservation (Washington/Orange): Exterior repairs, accessibility ramps, minor weatherization for homeowners ≤80% AMI; small homeowner payments go back into the revolving fund. Office 802‑522‑8611. (centralvermonthabitat.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your regional NeighborWorks organization for low‑interest repair loans (rates often 1–5% based on income; Addison/Rutland/Bennington: 802‑438‑2303). (nwwvt.org)

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Organization‑by‑organization details (with amounts, rules, documents, timelines)

Vermont Catholic Charities (statewide)

What they offer

• Food cards; help paying outstanding utilities/fuel; rent or security deposits. Assistance is open to all Vermonters regardless of faith, by appointment and as funds allow. (vtcatholiccharities.org)

Eligibility and documents

• Vermont resident; explain the emergency; bring photo ID, proof of the bill/lease, and any shut‑off/eviction paperwork.

How to apply

• Call 802‑658‑6111 (South Burlington) or 802‑773‑3379 (Rutland). Address: 55 Joy Dr, South Burlington. (vtcatholiccharities.org)

Timelines

• Typically within a few days for appointments; urgent cases may move faster if documentation is ready. (vtcatholiccharities.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask the staffer to refer you to a local parish outreach (e.g., Joseph’s House in Burlington) and to JUMP if you’re in Chittenden County. (josephshousevt.org, search.vermont211.org)

Salvation Army (Greater Burlington, Rutland, Barre/St. J.)

What they offer

• Burlington: “Friendly Kitchen” free dinners Mon–Sat 5–6 p.m.; pantry “Harvest Boxes” most weekdays; emergency financial assistance by appointment when funding is available. Phone 802‑864‑6991; address 64 Main St. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Rutland Service Center: Pantry Mon/Wed/Fri 10 a.m.–1 p.m.; appointments Tue/Thu 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Phone 802‑775‑5150; address 1 Field Ave. (campsebago.org)
• Barre: Family Store supports local social services; call 802‑479‑3458. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

Eligibility and documents

• Open to all; for financial help bring ID, bill/lease, and proof of crisis.

Timelines

• Meals and pantry are same‑day; emergency assistance is appointment‑based and depends on available funds. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask for a written referral to JUMP (Chittenden), COTS HRC, or Catholic Charities so you don’t have to re‑explain your case at every door. (search.vermont211.org, cotsonline.org)

JUMP – Joint Urban Ministry Project (Burlington, Chittenden County)

What they offer (clear amounts)

• Choice of $50\ast \ast foodcard(Hannaford/CityMarket)or\ast \ast$75 utility payment (paid directly), plus vouchers for laundry and thrift shops; bus passes/gas vouchers in limited cases. One visit every 3 months. First‑come, 15 households per morning. (search.vermont211.org)

Eligibility and documents

• Low‑to‑moderate income; bring ID; bring the utility bill if asking for a payment. (search.vermont211.org)

How to apply

• Walk in Thu or Fri, doors open 9 a.m.; arrive by 8:45 to avoid the cutoff. Address: 38 S Winooski Ave (First Congregational Church). Phone 802‑862‑4501. (jumpvt.org)

Timelines

• Same‑day assistance while funds last. If you arrive late, staff may still offer hospitality and referrals. (jumpvt.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask about JUMP’s thrift and laundromat vouchers even if utility funds are exhausted that morning. Then call Catholic Charities to pursue a larger bill. (vtcatholiccharities.org)

Feeding Champlain Valley (CVOEO) – Food shelves and meals

What they offer

• Burlington (228 North Winooski Ave): Food shelf Mon–Fri 9–4; seated meal 9–11 a.m.; grab‑and‑go 9–2:30. Weekly shopping allowed in Chittenden; toiletries often available. (feedingchamplainvalley.org)
• Middlebury Food Hub (616 Exchange St): Food shelf Mon–Fri 10–3:30; Addison residents can shop monthly. (feedingchamplainvalley.org)
• System impact: ~2 million pounds of food distributed annually; 8,532 individuals; 222,735 meals. (feedingchamplainvalley.org)

Documents and timelines

• No income test; ID helpful. Same‑day service during open hours.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask staff to point you to the nearest VeggieVanGo event or partner pantry in their network. (vtfoodbank.org)

Vermont Foodbank – VeggieVanGo (statewide fresh produce)

What they offer

• Free produce events hosted by schools/health partners; no registration or income test. Each event has 5–6 items. Call 800‑585‑2265 for sites. (vtfoodbank.org)

What to bring/timeline

• Open air distribution; arrive early; you can pick up for up to five households with their permission. (vtfoodbank.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Dial 2‑1‑1 and ask for nearby food shelves open that day. (vermont211.org)

Upper Valley Haven (White River Junction)

What they offer

• Community Food Market: Full monthly grocery shop plus produce/bread any open day. Hours: Mon–Thu 10–4:30, Fri 10–3. Phone 802‑295‑6500. (uppervalleyhaven.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask Haven staff to connect you to a nearby pantry or to their partners for emergency housing navigation. (uppervalleyhaven.org)

COTS – Committee on Temporary Shelter (Chittenden County)

What they offer

• Daystation (adults), family shelter, Waystation (overnight), and Housing Resource Center for families at risk. COTS private funds can cover security deposits, back rent, utilities, and short‑term subsidies—after other sources are tried. Main: 802‑864‑7402. (cotsonline.org)

Eligibility and documents

• Chittenden residents prioritized; bring ID, proof of income, lease/bill, and a short, realistic housing plan. (cotsonline.org)

Timelines

• Same‑day triage; assistance timing depends on funding and documentation.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask COTS to introduce you to CVOEO housing navigation or to Catholic Charities so you don’t start from scratch. (cotsonline.org)

Good Samaritan Haven (Washington/Orange)

What they offer

• Emergency shelters in Berlin, Barre, and Barre Town; evening meals; laundry and basic needs; recovery‑oriented house (South Barre Rd). Call intake 802‑479‑2294 between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. Mon–Fri. (goodsamaritanhaven.org)

What to bring/timeline

• ID if you have it; intakes are not processed after 3 p.m.; call early to check bed status.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask about street‑outreach supports (tents, sleeping bags) and referrals to partner shelters if Good Sam is full. (goodsamaritanhaven.org)

John Graham Housing & Services (Addison County)

What they offer

• 24/7 help line 802‑877‑2677; family shelter (9 rooms); emergency food shelf; case management toward permanent housing. Address: 69 Main St, Vergennes. (johngrahamshelter.org, search.vermont211.org)

Timelines

• Family rooms are often full; ask for diversion help while waiting (e.g., deposits, arrears funded by partners). (search.vermont211.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Contact Charter House Coalition for 24/7 adult shelter and daily meals in Middlebury (802‑989‑8621). (chcvt.org)

Mercy Connections (Chittenden County)

What they offer

• Free adult education, U.S. citizenship prep, mentoring for justice‑involved women, and the Women’s Small Business Program (WSBP). Recent tuition listed at $2,500 for the WSBP Business Plan course with scholarships and VSAC grants available. Phone 802‑846‑7063; 255 S Champlain St, Burlington. (mercyconnections.org, vermontbiz.com)

Why it matters for single moms

• Staff can help you map realistic steps to increase income and stability while connecting you to basic‑needs partners (food, childcare, transportation). (mercyconnections.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask United Way’s Working Bridges (if your employer offers it) for on‑site resource coordination and income‑advance loan options. (unitedwaynwvt.org)

Capstone Community Action Food Shelf (Central VT)

What they offer

• Choice pantry; limit of shelf‑stable/frozen boxes to once every two weeks, plus weekly produce/bread. Home delivery Fridays for 65+ or qualified disabilities in greater Barre. Main line 802‑479‑1053; food shelf 802‑477‑5121. (capstonevt.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask Capstone to post your need on the Vivery platform alerts and to connect you to nearby community shelves. (sites.vivery.org)

Charter House Coalition (Addison)

What they offer

• 24/7 emergency shelter and daily community meals; coordinated entry; case management. Call 802‑989‑8621; 27 N Pleasant St, Middlebury. (chcvt.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask about community supper at the Congregational Church and get a same‑day referral to John Graham or HOPE. (midducc.org)

United Way & Vermont 211 (statewide)

What they offer

• 24/7 information and referral; phone 2‑1‑1, text ZIP to 898211, or call 802‑652‑4636/866‑652‑4636. Regional United Way offices can also connect you: UWNWVT (South Burlington 802‑864‑7541), United Way of Addison County (Middlebury 802‑388‑7189), United Way of Rutland County (802‑773‑7477), United Way of Windham County (802‑257‑4011). (vermont211.org, unitedwaynwvt.org, unitedwayaddisoncounty.org, uwrutlandcounty.org, unitedwaywindham.org)

Working Bridges (through many employers): Free, confidential on‑site/virtual resource coordination; 2024 impact served 1,620 individuals; some sites offer income‑advance loans and financial coaching. Ask HR if your workplace participates. (unitedwaynwvt.org)

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Tables you can scan fast

A) What you can get (with amounts and frequency)

Sources as cited.

B) Where to go by region (phones in bold)

C) Typical timelines and what speeds decisions

D) Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Photo ID (any kind) and something with your address.
• Your lease page (with rent amount) and any past‑due or court papers.
• Latest utility bill or shut‑off notice; account number visible.
• Proof of income for last 30 days (paystubs, child support, SSI letter). If none, a brief written statement helps.
• Names/ages of children; school/daycare contact if asking for transportation help.
• A short “ask” in writing: “I’m requesting $___ toward [bill/deposit] to prevent shut‑off/eviction by [date].”

E) Quick Reference: United Way and 211

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Diverse Communities: targeted help and tips

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: COTS and 211 can flag language and privacy needs. For violence or stalking, use the statewide DV hotline 1‑800‑228‑7395 and ask for an LGBTQ‑competent advocate; many shelters provide private rooms and safety planning without outing you. (burlingtonvt.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask every charity for “reasonable accommodations” (phone intake, curbside pickup, priority lines). Upper Valley Haven allows frequent produce pickups outside your monthly full shop. (uppervalleyhaven.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Call 2‑1‑1 and ask for veteran‑specific referrals; many pantries and shelters tag veteran households for targeted funds (e.g., SSFV partner referrals). (vermont211.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Charities provide help regardless of status; COTS and 211 have translation lines; JUMP and Feeding Champlain Valley serve without immigration screening. (cotsonline.org, vermont211.org, feedingchamplainvalley.org)
• Tribal citizens and rural moms: If a local pantry closed or is far (e.g., rural NEK closures), ask Vermont Foodbank about the closest VeggieVanGo and call 211 for mobile distributions. (apnews.com, vtfoodbank.org)
• Rural access/transportation: Ready To Go can cover rides to work and childcare if you’re in Reach Up or an eligible program. Ask your DCF worker. (search.vermont211.org)
• Single fathers: All resources above serve any parent; bring proof you have the children in your care (if asked).
• Language access: Vermont 211 can use tele‑interpreters; COTS lists multiple languages; Foodbank events require no paperwork at all. (vermont211.org, cotsonline.org, vtfoodbank.org)

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until a shut‑off/eviction date is past. Most charities can only help before disconnection or court lockout. Bring the notice with the exact date in bold.
• Arriving late to first‑come programs (JUMP). Get there before doors open; households are capped each morning. (jumpvt.org)
• Not bringing documents. A clear cell‑phone photo of the bill/lease is enough for many programs.
• Asking for help across too many agencies without telling your story once. Ask for a “warm handoff” so staff connect you directly to the next charity.
• Assuming groceries mean only cans. Many Vermont shelves provide fresh produce, dairy, and meats; ask what’s available each day. (feedingchamplainvalley.org)

What to do if a program tells you “we’re out of funds”

• Ask when funds usually refresh (some reset on the 1st or when donations land).
• Request a letter or email stating you tried; COTS and Catholic Charities may consider your outreach when prioritizing private funds. (cotsonline.org, vtcatholiccharities.org)
• Call 2‑1‑1 immediately and ask the specialist to search “faith‑based” and “community action” filters for your county; ask for places open today, not just this week. (vermont211.org)

Ten Vermont‑specific FAQs

1. Can I really get cash?
   Most groups pay vendors directly (utility company, landlord, grocery gift card). JUMP pays utilities directly and gives grocery cards; Catholic Charities commonly issues food cards and vendor payments. (search.vermont211.org, vtcatholiccharities.org)
2. How often can I use a pantry?
   Feeding Champlain Valley: weekly in Chittenden; monthly in Addison. Capstone asks for every 2 weeks for shelf‑stable boxes, weekly for produce. Upper Valley Haven: monthly full shop plus frequent produce. (feedingchamplainvalley.org, capstonevt.org, uppervalleyhaven.org)
3. I just need gas to get to work. Where should I go?
   Ask JUMP for a bus pass/gas voucher (limited); some parishes also provide bus passes. If you’re in Reach Up, ask for Good News Garage “Ready To Go.” (search.vermont211.org, jumpvt.org)
4. My child needs diapers today.
   Check your county’s Parent Child Center’s diaper bank (e.g., Springfield or Bennington) or Joseph’s House in Burlington when stock is available. (sapcc-vt.org, sunrisepcc.com, josephshousevt.org)
5. I’m facing a utility disconnect this week.
   Call Catholic Charities and JUMP first; ask SEVCA/Capstone about payment plans and discounts with your utility. Bring your disconnect notice. (vtcatholiccharities.org, search.vermont211.org, sevca.org)
6. Are there real numbers on how much food support is available?
   Feeding Champlain Valley reported roughly 2 million pounds and 222,735 meals/year across services. Vermont Foodbank’s VeggieVanGo distributes produce statewide monthly. (feedingchamplainvalley.org, vtfoodbank.org)
7. Who helps with a security deposit if I find an apartment?
   Try Catholic Charities and COTS HRC (private funds). Have the unit, deposit amount, and move‑in date ready. (vtcatholiccharities.org, cotsonline.org)
8. I’m in Washington County and need shelter tonight.
   Call Good Samaritan Haven intake 802‑479‑2294 (7 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays). After 4:30 p.m., call 2‑1‑1. (goodsamaritanhaven.org, vermont211.org)
9. Is there help if I own my home and something broke?
   COVER Home Repair serves income‑eligible homeowners with urgent repairs; income limit for a 4‑person household is $5,000/month. Some Habitat affiliates also do small exterior/accessibility projects. (coverhomerepair.org, centralvermonthabitat.org)
10. My employer said “Working Bridges” can help. What is that?
    United Way’s Working Bridges brings a resource coordinator to your workplace; in 2024 they supported 1,620 individuals across northern Vermont, with options like income‑advance loans and coaching. (unitedwaynwvt.org)

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Resources by region (names, descriptive links, phones, addresses)

Northwest (Chittenden/Franklin/Grand Isle)

• COTS – Committee on Temporary Shelter: Get help (families, adults, HRC) | 802‑864‑7402 | 95 North Ave, Burlington. (cotsonline.org)
• JUMP – Joint Urban Ministry Project: In‑person assistance (Thu–Fri) | 802‑862‑4501 | 38 S Winooski Ave, Burlington. (jumpvt.org)
• Salvation Army Burlington Corps: Programs, meals, pantry | 802‑864‑6991 | 64 Main St, Burlington. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Vermont Catholic Charities: Emergency Aid | 802‑658‑6111 | 55 Joy Dr, South Burlington. (vtcatholiccharities.org)
• Feeding Champlain Valley: Groceries & meals (Burlington/Middlebury) | 802‑658‑7939 x23 (Burlington food shelf) | 228 N Winooski Ave, Burlington; 616 Exchange St, Middlebury. (feedingchamplainvalley.org)
• Vermont Foodbank VeggieVanGo: Find produce events | 800‑585‑2265 | Statewide sites. (vtfoodbank.org)
• Mercy Connections: Education, mentoring, women’s small business | 802‑846‑7063 | 255 S Champlain St, Ste 8, Burlington. (mercyconnections.org)
• Joseph’s House Parish Outreach: Basic needs (utilities, baby items, bus passes) | 802‑951‑4290 | 113 Elmwood Ave, Burlington. (josephshousevt.org)
• Spectrum Youth & Family Services (young parents/teens): Contact/hours | 802‑864‑7423 | multiple Burlington/St. Albans sites. (spectrumvt.org)
• United Way of Northwest Vermont: Contact | 802‑864‑7541 | 412 Farrell St, Ste 200, South Burlington. (unitedwaynwvt.org)

Central (Washington/Orange/Lamoille)

• Good Samaritan Haven: Find shelter | 802‑479‑2294 | 105 N Seminary St, Barre (intake phone hours 7 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays). (goodsamaritanhaven.org)
• Capstone Community Action Food Shelf: Hours & frequency | 802‑477‑5121 | 20 Gable Pl, Barre. (capstonevt.org)
• Central VT Habitat for Humanity – Home Preservation: Home repairs | 802‑522‑8611 | Waterbury office. (centralvermonthabitat.org)
• United Way (Working Bridges in central VT): Program overview | Contact via Green Mountain United Way. (gmunitedway.org)

Addison County

• John Graham Housing & Services: Emergency shelter & housing help | 802‑877‑2677 (24/7) | 69 Main St, Vergennes. (johngrahamshelter.org)
• Charter House Coalition: 24/7 shelter & meals | 802‑989‑8621 | 27 N Pleasant St, Middlebury. (chcvt.org)
• HOPE (food shelf & financial assistance): How we can help | 802‑388‑3608 | 282 Boardman St, Middlebury. (hope-vt.org)
• United Way of Addison County: Contact | 802‑388‑7189 | 175 Wilson Rd, Ste 101, Middlebury. (unitedwayaddisoncounty.org)

Upper Valley (Windsor)

• Upper Valley Haven (food & family support): Food Market | 802‑295‑6500 | 713 Hartford Ave, White River Jct. (uppervalleyhaven.org)
• COVER Home Repair: Home repair & weatherization | 802‑296‑7241 x6 | 158 S Main St, White River Jct. (coverhomerepair.org)

Southern Vermont (Rutland/Bennington/Windham)

• Salvation Army – Rutland: Service Center & pantry | 802‑775‑5150 | 1 Field Ave, Rutland. (campsebago.org)
• Sunrise Family Resource Center (Bennington) – Diaper Bank: Program page | 802‑442‑6934 | 244 Union St, Bennington. (sunrisepcc.com)
• United Way of Rutland County: Contact | 802‑773‑7477 | 67 Merchants Row, Ste 1, Rutland. (uwrutlandcounty.org)
• United Way of Windham County: Contact | 802‑257‑4011 | 1222 Putney Rd, Ste 202, Brattleboro. (unitedwaywindham.org)

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Real‑world examples (to help you plan)

• A mom in Winooski with a shut‑off notice arrived at JUMP Friday at 8:50 a.m., received a $75 utility payment directly to her power company plus laundry vouchers, and picked up a pantry box at Salvation Army the same afternoon. (search.vermont211.org)
• A single mother in Middlebury used Charter House meals nightly while John Graham added her to the family‑shelter waitlist; HOPE covered a portion of a past‑due fuel bill after Catholic Charities provided food cards—each based on showing the bill and deadlines. (chcvt.org, search.vermont211.org, hope-vt.org, vtcatholiccharities.org)

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Plan B options (only if charitable routes fail)

• Utility hardship discounts (not government benefits per se): Burlington Electric 12.5% discount; Washington Electric and VEC $45/month bill credits under ACRE; ask your utility or 2‑1‑1 for links. (jumpvt.org)
• Employer‑based Working Bridges (United Way): resource coordinators, income‑advance loans, and referrals while you’re on the job. (unitedwaynwvt.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Vermont nonprofits, United Way/211, shelter providers, foodbanks, and established charities. It is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours. (asinglemother.org)

Disclaimer

• Program details, amounts, and hours can change without notice. Always verify with the organization before traveling.
• This article is information, not legal advice or individual case guidance.
• For safety: Do not post personal information publicly. If you share documents online, remove SSNs and account numbers. Keep your phone/computer secure and use private browsing if you’re fleeing abuse.
• Health and crisis care: In emergencies dial 9‑1‑1. For domestic/sexual violence support call 1‑800‑228‑7395 or 802‑863‑1236 in Chittenden County. (burlingtonvt.gov)

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Full resource list (clickable, with phones and addresses)

Salvation Army Burlington – Programs, pantry, dinners | 802‑864‑6991 | 64 Main St, Burlington. (easternusa.salvationarmy.org)

Salvation Army Rutland – Service Center & pantry hours | 802‑775‑5150 | 1 Field Ave, Rutland. (campsebago.org)

Vermont Catholic Charities – Emergency Aid | 802‑658‑6111 (S. Burlington) / 802‑773‑3379 (Rutland) | 55 Joy Dr, South Burlington. (vtcatholiccharities.org)

United Way of Northwest Vermont – Contact | 802‑864‑7541 | 412 Farrell St, Ste 200, South Burlington. (unitedwaynwvt.org)

United Way of Addison County – Contact | 802‑388‑7189 | 175 Wilson Rd, Ste 101, Middlebury. (unitedwayaddisoncounty.org)

United Way of Rutland County – Contact | 802‑773‑7477 | 67 Merchants Row, Ste 1, Rutland. (uwrutlandcounty.org)

United Way of Windham County – Contact | 802‑257‑4011 | 1222 Putney Rd, Ste 202, Brattleboro. (unitedwaywindham.org)

Vermont 211 (United Ways of Vermont) – Get help | Dial 2‑1‑1; text ZIP to 898211; 802‑652‑4636/866‑652‑4636. (vermont211.org)

JUMP – Joint Urban Ministry Project – In‑person assistance (Thu–Fri) | 802‑862‑4501 | 38 S Winooski Ave, Burlington. (jumpvt.org)

COTS – Committee on Temporary Shelter – Get Help | 802‑864‑7402 | 95 North Ave, Burlington. (cotsonline.org)

Feeding Champlain Valley (CVOEO) – Food shelves & meals | 802‑658‑7939 x23 | 228 N Winooski Ave, Burlington; 616 Exchange St, Middlebury. (feedingchamplainvalley.org)

Vermont Foodbank – VeggieVanGo – Produce events | 800‑585‑2265 | Statewide. (vtfoodbank.org)

Upper Valley Haven – Community Food Market | 802‑295‑6500 | 713 Hartford Ave, White River Junction. (uppervalleyhaven.org)

Good Samaritan Haven – Find shelter | 802‑479‑2294 | 105 N Seminary St, Barre. (goodsamaritanhaven.org)

John Graham Housing & Services – Emergency shelter | 802‑877‑2677 | 69 Main St, Vergennes. (johngrahamshelter.org)

Charter House Coalition – Shelter & meals | 802‑989‑8621 | 27 N Pleasant St, Middlebury. (chcvt.org)

Mercy Connections – Programs & mentoring | 802‑846‑7063 | 255 S Champlain St, Ste 8, Burlington. (mercyconnections.org)

Capstone Community Action Food Shelf – Hours & forms | 802‑477‑5121 | 20 Gable Pl, Barre. (capstonevt.org)

COVER Home Repair – Apply | 802‑296‑7241 x6 | 158 S Main St, White River Junction. (coverhomerepair.org)

Good News Garage (transportation) – Vermont programs | 802‑864‑3667 | 331A N Winooski Ave, Burlington. (goodnewsgarage.org)

Springfield Area Parent Child Center – Diaper Bank | 802‑886‑5242 | 80 Jack and Jill Ln, North Springfield. (sapcc-vt.org)

Sunrise Family Resource Center (Bennington) – Community Diaper Bank | 802‑442‑6934 | 244 Union St, Bennington. (sunrisepcc.com)

Joseph’s House Parish Outreach – Basic needs help | 802‑951‑4290 | 113 Elmwood Ave, Burlington. (josephshousevt.org)

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If you hit a wall, call Vermont 211. Ask for charities that are open today, not next week, and request a warm handoff to save you time and repeat explanations. (vermont211.org)

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