Emergency Assistance for Single Mothers in Vermont

Last updated: August 2025 | Contact information verified: August 24, 2025
Sources: Vermont Department for Children and Families, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Vermont Health Connect, Vermont Department of Health

⚠️ Important: Program rules, benefit amounts, and income limits change frequently. Federal programs typically update in October (SNAP) and April (HUD limits). State programs may change with budget cycles. Always verify current information with the specific agency before making decisions based on this guide.

Quick Help – Need Assistance Today?

• Life-threatening emergency: Call 911 • Need shelter tonight: Call 211 or text your zip code to 898211 • Out of food: Apply for 3SquaresVT at myBenefits Vermont – expedited benefits in 7 days • Power being shut off: Call your local Community Action Agency immediately (numbers below) • Eviction notice: Call Vermont Legal Aid at 1-800-889-2047 right now • Lost your job: File unemployment at labor.vermont.gov or 1-877-214-3330 • Need health coverage: Apply at Vermont Health Connect or call 1-855-899-9600 • Pregnant or have kids under 5: Call WIC at 1-800-464-4343 for food help • Domestic violence: Call Vermont Network Domestic and Sexual Violence Services via 211 (24/7 confidential) • Emergency housing: Call 1-800-775-0506 for General Assistance Emergency Housing

If nothing above works: Call 211 and ask for a “warm handoff” to another agency that can help today.

Child Care Assistance

Vermont’s Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) helps working parents pay for daycare. Income limits vary by family size – typically families earning up to 85% of state median income may qualify.

How to apply: Contact your local DCF office or apply through myBenefits Vermont. Waiting lists exist in most areas.

Reality check: Funding is limited and waiting lists can be 6-12 months long in some counties.

If You Need Help Today

Get Food Within 24 Hours

Apply for 3SquaresVT (SNAP) benefits online at myBenefits Vermont. If your household has less than $150 in monthly income and under $100 in resources, ask for “expedited 3SquaresVT” – you can get benefits within 7 days.

If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have children under 5, call WIC at 1-800-464-4343. You can often get an appointment within days and receive immediate food benefits if you qualify.

Stop a Utility Shutoff Right Now

• Call your utility company and ask for a “payment plan” or “hardship extension” • Call 211 immediately and ask for your local Community Action Agency for LIHEAP crisis assistance • Bring your shutoff notice to the appointment

Keep Your Housing

• Call 211 for emergency shelter and coordinated entry services • If you received an eviction notice, call Vermont Legal Aid at 1-800-889-2047 for emergency legal help • Call DCF Emergency Housing Line at 1-800-775-0506 for General Assistance

Get Cash Quickly

Apply for Reach Up (TANF) at myBenefits Vermont. Vermont pays up to $856 per month for a family of three outside Chittenden County, with slightly higher rates in Chittenden County.

If you lost your job, file for unemployment benefits immediately at labor.vermont.gov or 1-877-214-3330. Vermont’s maximum weekly benefit amount is $668 as of 2025.

Reality Check: Getting help takes time. 3SquaresVT expedited processing takes 7 days. Reach Up takes 2-6 weeks. Unemployment takes 2-3 weeks. Plan for delays and ask every agency about emergency funds while you wait.

Main Points You Need to Know

• Apply the same day for multiple programs – 3SquaresVT, WIC, Reach Up, and Medicaid use similar income rules • Ask specifically for expedited processing when your situation is urgent • Keep copies of everything – take photos of documents with your phone as backup • Report changes within 10 days – income, address, or household changes to avoid problems • Vermont has expanded eligibility – many programs have higher income limits than other states • No resource limits for most programs – savings accounts and property ownership don’t disqualify you • Apply to multiple housing programs – Section 8 waiting lists are extremely long

Vermont reality: Vermont has some of the higher TANF benefit amounts in the country, but housing costs are also very high. Programs here are more generous than many states but still won’t solve all financial problems.

Emergency Cash and Food Programs

3SquaresVT (SNAP Food Assistance) (Source: Vermont Department for Children and Families, August 2025)

What it is: Monthly benefits loaded onto an EBT card to buy groceries. Vermont has expanded SNAP beyond federal minimums – households can qualify up to 185% of the Federal Poverty Level for gross income.

How much you can get: Maximum benefits follow federal SNAP allotments. For FY 2025 (October 2024-September 2025), check current amounts at USDA SNAP Allotments.

Income limits (Vermont DCF, August 2025): Your net household income must be less than 100% of the Federal Poverty Level, but gross income can be up to 185% FPL.

How to apply:

Go to myBenefits Vermont
Complete application online (takes 15-20 minutes)
Upload photos of your ID, pay stubs, rent receipt, and utility bills
Answer the phone when they call for your interview (usually within 1-2 weeks)

Timeline: Expedited 3SquaresVT takes 3-7 days if you qualify. Regular processing takes up to 30 days.

Documents needed: • Photo ID for adults • Social Security cards for everyone • Last 30 days of pay stubs (if working) • Rent receipt or lease • Recent utility bills

Special Vermont rules: Vermont has no asset/resource limit for most households. There’s a $4,500 resource limit only if you have someone 60+ or disabled and didn’t meet the gross income test.

Reach Up (TANF Cash Assistance) (Source: Vermont Department for Children and Families, 2025)

What it is: Monthly cash assistance for families with children under 19. You must participate in work activities unless exempt.

How much you can get: Vermont pays up to $856 per month for a family of three outside Chittenden County, with slightly higher rates in Chittenden County. Vermont also provides a housing supplement of up to $45 per month for families whose housing costs exceed $400.

Reach Up Payment Schedule (Vermont DCF, based on available data 2025)

Family Size	Maximum Monthly Cash (Outside Chittenden)
1 person	~$570
2 people	~$714
3 people	~$856
4 people	~$998

Note: Rates are slightly higher in Chittenden County. Plus potential $45/month housing supplement.

Income limits: Your countable monthly income must be below the payment standard for your family size.

How to apply:

Apply at myBenefits Vermont (same application as 3SquaresVT)
Attend required interview
Agree to participate in work activities (30+ hours/week unless exempt)

Timeline: Interview within 1-2 weeks, decision within 2-4 weeks, first payment the following month if approved.

Reality check: Vermont has a 60-month (5-year) lifetime limit on Reach Up, and time on TANF in other states counts toward this limit.

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

What it is: Special food packages for pregnant women, new moms, and children under 5. Includes fresh produce, milk, eggs, cereal, and infant formula.

How much you can get: Cash value benefits for fresh produce are based on federal WIC guidelines updated annually. For 2025-2026, income limits are up to 185% of federal poverty level.

Income limits (2025-2026): For WIC income eligibility, monthly limits include: $2,322 for 1 person, $3,152 for 2 people, $3,981 for 3 people, $4,810 for 4 people.

How to apply: Call 1-800-464-4343 or contact your county health department. You’ll need an appointment for a health screening.

Timeline: Often same week if appointments are available.

Automatic qualification: If you already get 3SquaresVT, Medicaid, or Reach Up, you automatically meet WIC’s income requirements.

Health Coverage Options

Medicaid for Different Groups (Vermont Health Connect, 2025)

Adults (Medicaid for Children & Adults – MCA): Vermont expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Check current income limits at Vermont Health Connect eligibility tables for 2025.

Children (Dr. Dynasaur): Dr. Dynasaur covers children up to 317% of federal poverty level for your household size. This is one of the most generous programs in the country.

Pregnant People: Dr. Dynasaur for pregnant women covers up to 213% of federal poverty level. Vermont now provides free coverage for 12 months after pregnancy ends.

How to apply: Apply at Vermont Health Connect or call 1-855-899-9600.

What’s covered: Dr. Dynasaur and Medicaid cover doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health and substance use treatment, dental care, and non-emergency medical transportation to appointments.

Reality check: Vermont’s health coverage is much more generous than most states thanks to Medicaid expansion.

Housing Assistance Programs

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

What it is: Federal rental assistance where you pay 30% of your income toward rent and the program covers the rest, up to local payment standards.

Income limits: Must be “very low income” – typically 50% of area median income. Income limits vary by county and are updated annually by HUD.

How much help: You typically pay 30% of your income toward rent. For example, if you earn $1,500/month, you’d pay about $450 and the program covers the rest.

Reality check: Vermont State Housing Authority’s Section 8 waiting list closed on January 31, 2025, at 4:30pm. The waiting list for Housing Choice Vouchers is currently closed, but the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program remains open.

How to apply:

Check Vermont State Housing Authority for when waiting lists reopen
Also apply to local housing authorities when they have openings
Apply to multiple programs to improve your chances

Emergency Housing Assistance

Call DCF Emergency Housing Line at 1-800-775-0506 for General Assistance Emergency Housing. Call 211 for: • Emergency shelter placement • Coordinated entry for rapid rehousing • Motel voucher programs • Homeless prevention programs

Work and Training Support

Unemployment Benefits

How much you can get: Vermont calculates your weekly benefit by dividing total wages paid in your two highest quarters by 45. The current maximum weekly benefit amount is $705. However, recent updates show the Maximum Weekly Benefit Amount is $668 as of 2025.

How long: Maximum of 26 weeks, but variable duration based on 46% of base period wages or 26 times the weekly benefit amount, whichever is less.

How to apply:

File online at labor.vermont.gov
Call 1-877-214-3330 if you can’t apply online
File weekly claims to maintain benefits

Timeline: First payment typically comes 2-3 weeks after filing.

Job Training and Support

If you’re on Reach Up, you must participate in work activities – up to 40 hours per week of work, job training, or education.

Vermont Department of Labor Career Services: • Free job search assistance at local Career Resource Centers • Skills training programs
• Help with resumes and interviews • Find locations at labor.vermont.gov

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Single Mom, Two Kids, Earning $2,000/Month

What she could qualify for: • 3SquaresVT: Likely $150-300/month (depends on deductions) • WIC: If kids under 5, yes • Dr. Dynasaur for children: Yes • Dr. Dynasaur for mom: Maybe (depends on exact income after deductions) • Reach Up: No (income too high) • Section 8: Could apply but waiting lists are closed

Reality: She’d get substantial food and health coverage help, but housing assistance is very limited due to waiting lists.

Example 2: Pregnant Woman, No Job, Living with Family

What she could qualify for: • 3SquaresVT: Expedited processing, benefits based on her separate household status • WIC: Yes, immediate benefits available • Dr. Dynasaur pregnancy coverage: Yes • Reach Up: Depends on living situation and family income • Emergency housing: Potentially available

Timeline: 3SquaresVT in 7 days, WIC same week, Medicaid in 2-3 weeks.

Example 3: Recently Lost Job, One Child, Was Earning $3,000/Month

What she could qualify for: • Unemployment: $400-600/week for up to 26 weeks • 3SquaresVT: $300-500/month initially • Dr. Dynasaur for child: Yes • Dr. Dynasaur for mom: Yes • Emergency fuel assistance: Yes if heating bills are unmanageable

Key: File for unemployment immediately – eligibility is based on when you file, not when you lost the job.

Specific Resources for Different Situations

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

• Apply for all programs normally – sexual orientation and gender identity don’t affect eligibility • If you face discrimination, document it (worker name, date, time) and request a supervisor • You can request confidential address services and gender-affirming care under Medicaid

Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children

• If you receive SSI, you automatically qualify for Medicaid • 3SquaresVT has special rules for households with disabled members – higher income limits and different work requirements • Priority for housing assistance may be available • Contact VocRehab Vermont at 1-866-879-6757 for work support

Veteran Single Mothers

• Ask about HUD-VASH vouchers (housing for homeless veterans) through VA and local housing authorities • Contact White River Junction VA Medical Center at 802-295-9363 • May qualify for expedited services through some programs

Immigrant/Refugee Single Mothers

• Qualified immigrants may be eligible after 5-year waiting period • Refugees, asylees, and trafficking victims often qualify immediately • Emergency services available regardless of status • Vermont will not report you to immigration authorities for applying for benefits

Tribal Members

• Can use both state programs and any available tribal-specific resources • Vermont has four state-recognized Abenaki tribes • All programs in this guide are available regardless of tribal membership

Rural Single Mothers

• Use 211 to find traveling WIC clinics and Community Action office schedules • Some programs have mobile services that visit rural areas monthly • Non-emergency medical transportation is available for Medicaid appointments – call Vermont Public Transportation Association at (833) 387-7200

Single Fathers

• All programs listed here are available to single fathers with custody • Don’t be discouraged if staff seem surprised – you have the same rights as single mothers

Vermont Resources by Region

Chittenden/Franklin/Grand Isle/Addison Counties

• CVOEO (Community Action): 802-862-2771 – CVOEO • Burlington Housing Authority: 802-864-0538

Central Vermont (Washington/Lamoille/Orange Counties)

• Capstone Community Action: 802-479-1053 – Capstone

Southern Vermont (Windham/Windsor Counties)

• SEVCA: 802-722-4575 – SEVCA

Rutland/Bennington Counties

• BROC Community Action: 802-775-0878 – BROC

Northeast Kingdom (Caledonia/Essex/Orleans Counties)

• NEKCA: 802-334-7316 – NEKCA

Statewide Resources

• Vermont DCF Benefits Service Center: 1-800-479-6151 • Vermont Health Connect: 1-855-899-9600 • Vermont 211: Dial 211 or text zip code to 898211 • Vermont Legal Aid: 1-800-889-2047

Program Comparison Table

Program	Max Monthly Benefit	Income Limit (Family of 3)	How Long to Get Help
3SquaresVT	Varies by USDA standards	185% FPL gross/$2,694	7-30 days
Reach Up	~$856 + housing supplement	Must be below benefit amount	2-6 weeks
WIC	Food packages + produce $	$3,981/month	Same week
Unemployment	Up to $668/week	Based on past wages	2-3 weeks
Dr. Dynasaur (Children)	Free health coverage	317% FPL	2-4 weeks

Fuel and Utility Assistance

LIHEAP/Fuel Assistance

What it is: Help with heating costs, with benefits ranging from $21 minimum to $1,843 maximum. Winter crisis assistance up to $1,664 maximum.

Income limits: Gross household income must be 185% of federal poverty level or less.

How to apply: Apply at myBenefits Vermont or call 1-800-479-6151.

Special Vermont programs: • Green Mountain Power Energy Assistance: 25% discount on monthly bills for first 600 kWh for households up to 150% of federal poverty guidelines • Vermont Gas Low Income Energy Program: 20% discount for households up to 185% of federal poverty level

Common Mistakes That Delay Your Benefits

3SquaresVT/Reach Up Mistakes

• Not answering unknown calls: DCF often calls from blocked or unfamiliar numbers for interviews • Missing the interview: Reschedule immediately if you can’t make it • Not asking for expedited processing: Specifically ask for “expedited 3SquaresVT” if you qualify • Incomplete documents: Upload what you have and submit additional documents later

Housing Mistakes

• Only applying to VSHA: Apply to local housing authorities and check for waiting list openings • Not updating contact information: You’ll lose your place if they can’t reach you • Not applying to multiple programs: Different programs may have different wait times

General Mistakes

• Not keeping copies: Always save confirmation numbers and screenshots • Not reporting changes within 10 days: Income or address changes must be reported promptly • Giving up after one denial: You can often appeal or reapply with better documentation

What to Do If You’re Denied

Request written reason for denial
File appeal within 90 days for most DCF programs (shorter timelines for some)
Ask for “aid continuing” to keep benefits during appeal when allowed
Get help from Vermont Legal Aid: 1-800-889-2047

When Programs Don’t Work – Plan B Options

If 3SquaresVT is denied or delayed:

• Contact food banks through Vermont Foodbank • Ask churches about emergency food assistance • Look into local food shelves (many don’t require ID)

If housing assistance isn’t available:

• Negotiate payment plan with landlord in writing • Call 211 for emergency shelter and transitional housing • Contact domestic violence shelters if that applies (they help all women in crisis)

If utilities are being shut off:

• Ask utility company for budget billing plan
• Get doctor’s note for medical necessity if anyone has health conditions • Contact Community Action Agencies for WARMTH program emergency assistance

If you can’t find work:

• Consider gig work (delivery services, seasonal work) for immediate income • Contact Vermont Department of Labor Career Resource Centers • Ask about training programs that provide support while you learn new skills

Vermont mindset: When you’re in crisis, accept help that gets you through today. Vermont has more generous programs than most states, so don’t assume you won’t qualify.

Timeline Expectations – Be Realistic

Week 1

• Apply for 3SquaresVT, Reach Up, Medicaid online • Call WIC for appointment
• File unemployment if applicable • Contact 211 for emergency assistance

Week 2-3

• Attend 3SquaresVT/Reach Up interview • WIC appointment and first benefits • First unemployment payment (if approved) • Emergency assistance decisions

Month 2-3

• Regular 3SquaresVT benefits begin • Reach Up decision and first payment • Dr. Dynasaur/Medicaid coverage starts • Begin required work activities if on Reach Up

Month 6+

• Review and recertify for ongoing programs • Housing assistance applications may start moving (if lists reopen) • Job training programs may be available

Managing expectations: Getting stable takes months, not days. Focus on immediate needs first (food, shelter, health coverage) then work on longer-term stability.

Common Questions Single Moms Ask

“Can I get help if I work?”

Yes. Vermont has some of the most generous income limits in the country. 3SquaresVT allows up to 185% of poverty level. Dr. Dynasaur for children goes up to 317% of poverty level. Working actually helps you qualify for child care assistance.

“What if I don’t have all the documents?”

Apply anyway with what you have. Vermont allows you to submit additional documents later. Ask about “good cause” exceptions if you’re fleeing domestic violence.

“How much can I earn and keep benefits?”

Each program is different, but Vermont is more generous than most states. 3SquaresVT reduces gradually as income increases. Report all changes within 10 days to avoid overpayments.

“Can I get help if I live with family?”

Depends on whether you buy and prepare food together. If you’re a separate “household” for food purposes, you can often apply independently for 3SquaresVT.

“What if I have a car or savings?”

Vermont has no asset limits for most programs. You can own a home, have a car, and have money in savings and still qualify for 3SquaresVT, WIC, and health coverage.

“How long can I get help?”

• 3SquaresVT: As long as you meet requirements (recertify every 6-12 months) • Reach Up: 60-month (5-year) lifetime limit
• WIC: Until child turns 5, or 1 year postpartum • Unemployment: Up to 26 weeks maximum • Dr. Dynasaur: No time limit if you follow program rules

“What if I’m denied?”

You can appeal most DCF decisions within 90 days. Get help from Vermont Legal Aid (1-800-889-2047). Sometimes it’s just missing paperwork.

“Can I apply if I’m undocumented?”

Emergency services are available regardless of immigration status. Your U.S. citizen children can get benefits even if you can’t. Vermont will not report you to immigration authorities for applying.

Resources Directory

Statewide Helplines

• Vermont 211: Dial 211 or text zip code to 898211 • Vermont DCF: 1-800-479-6151 • Vermont Health Connect: 1-855-899-9600
• WIC: 1-800-464-4343 • Unemployment: 1-877-214-3330 • Vermont Legal Aid: 1-800-889-2047 • Emergency Housing: 1-800-775-0506

Crisis Support

• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 • Vermont Network (Domestic/Sexual Violence): Available through 211

Online Applications

• 3SquaresVT/Reach Up/Fuel Assistance: myBenefits Vermont • Health Coverage: Vermont Health Connect • Unemployment: Vermont Department of Labor • Housing: Vermont State Housing Authority

Important Warnings and Reality Checks

About Vermont’s High Cost of Living

Vermont has some of the highest housing costs in New England. Even with generous benefit programs, many families struggle with rent. Don’t expect these programs alone to solve housing affordability – think of them as a foundation while you work toward stability.

About Waiting Times

Housing assistance has extremely long wait times. VSHA’s Section 8 waiting list is currently closed. Even when open, waits can be 2-5 years. Don’t rely solely on housing programs for your solution.

About Work Requirements

Reach Up requires 30+ hours per week of work activities. Vermont takes these requirements seriously and will reduce or terminate benefits if you don’t comply. Understand what’s expected before you apply.

About Seasonal Challenges

Vermont winters are harsh and heating costs are high. Apply for fuel assistance early in the season. Summer work may be more available but seasonal, so plan accordingly.

About Income Reporting

Report ALL income changes within 10 days – cash jobs, child support, unemployment benefits, seasonal work. Programs share information with each other.

Tables You Can Use Today

Table 1. Benefit amounts snapshot (August 2025 – verify at official links)

Program	Who	Amounts
Reach Up (TANF)	Families with children	Up to $856/month for family of 3 outside Chittenden County, plus potential $45/month housing supplement. Check Reach Up for exact amounts.
3SquaresVT (SNAP)	Low-income households	Maximum monthly benefit follows federal USDA allotments. Check USDA SNAP Allotments for current amounts. Apply via 3SquaresVT.
WIC	Pregnant/postpartum, infants/children under 5	Food packages plus cash value for produce based on federal guidelines. Check Vermont WIC.
Unemployment (UI)	Workers who lost jobs	Up to $668/week maximum. File at Vermont DOL.
LIHEAP/Fuel Assistance	Heating costs	$21 minimum to $1,843 maximum seasonal benefit; crisis assistance up to $1,664. Check Fuel Assistance.
Emergency Housing	Homeless families	Placement paid by General Assistance if eligible; call 1-800-775-0506.

Table 2. Income limits quick view (August 2025 – verify links)

Program	Income Limit (Gross Monthly)
Dr. Dynasaur (children)	Up to 317% FPL – about $7,925/month for family of 4. Check Vermont Health Connect.
Dr. Dynasaur (pregnant)	Up to 213% FPL. Check Vermont Health Connect.
WIC	Up to 185% FPL – $3,981/month for family of 3. Auto-eligible if on SNAP/Reach Up. Vermont WIC.
3SquaresVT	Up to 185% FPL gross income; net income must be under 100% FPL. Check 3SquaresVT Guidelines.
LIHEAP/Fuel Assistance	Up to 185% FPL. Check Fuel Assistance.

Table 3. Typical timelines

Program	Time to Decision/First Payment
Expedited 3SquaresVT	3-7 days
Regular 3SquaresVT	2-4 weeks
Reach Up	2-6 weeks
Emergency Housing	Same day if eligible
LIHEAP Seasonal	2-4 weeks; crisis fuel 24-48 hours
WIC	Same week appointment
Dr. Dynasaur/Medicaid	2-4 weeks
Unemployment	2-3 weeks after filing

Table 4. Documents you’ll likely need

Document	Why
Photo ID	Identity verification
SSN or proof applied	Eligibility checks
Children’s birth certificates	Verify household composition
Proof of address/lease	Housing costs and residency
Pay stubs (last 30 days)	Income verification
Bank statement	Resources (when applicable)
Utility bills/shutoff notice	Utility assistance programs
Eviction/notice to quit	Emergency housing
Child support order/payments	Income calculations
Doctor’s note/pregnancy proof	WIC/Medicaid pregnancy coverage

Table 5. Key contacts

Office	Phone	Web
Vermont DCF Benefits Service Center	1-800-479-6151	Vermont DCF
myBenefits Vermont (apply)	—	myBenefits Vermont
Vermont Health Connect	1-855-899-9600	Vermont Health Connect
Vermont Legal Aid	1-800-889-2047	VTLawHelp
VSHA (Section 8)	802-828-3295	VSHA
Vermont 211	211 or text zip to 898211	Vermont 211
Vermont DOL UI	1-877-214-3330	Vermont DOL
Emergency Housing	1-800-775-0506	DCF Emergency Housing

State-Specific FAQs

How much cash help can I get from Reach Up in Vermont?

As of 2025, Vermont pays up to $856 per month for a family of three outside Chittenden County, with slightly higher rates in Chittenden County. You may also get up to $45/month housing supplement if your housing costs exceed $400. Check Reach Up for current amounts.

What are the 3SquaresVT maximum benefits for 2025?

3SquaresVT follows federal USDA SNAP allotment amounts, updated each October. See current dollar amounts at USDA SNAP Allotments. Apply at myBenefits Vermont.

How fast can I get 3SquaresVT if I have no money?

If you have under $150 monthly income and very low resources, you can get “expedited 3SquaresVT” in 3-7 days. Call 1-800-479-6151 and specify you need expedited processing.

What are Vermont’s health coverage income limits in 2025?

Children (Dr. Dynasaur): up to 317% FPL. Pregnant people: up to 213% FPL. Adults: check current limits at Vermont Health Connect eligibility tables.

Is the Section 8 waitlist open right now?

No. VSHA’s Housing Choice Voucher waiting list closed January 31, 2025. The Project-Based Voucher program remains open. Check VSHA for updates and apply to local housing authorities when their lists open.

How much can LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance) pay in Vermont?

Seasonal benefits range from $21 minimum to $1,843 maximum, paid directly to your fuel dealer or utility. Crisis assistance up to $1,664. Check current season amounts at Fuel Assistance.

What are Vermont’s unemployment weekly benefit amounts in 2025?

Up to $668 per week maximum, calculated by dividing your two highest quarters’ wages by 45. Duration up to 26 weeks. File at Vermont DOL or call 1-877-214-3330.

Can Reach Up help with work expenses?

Yes. Reach Up can cover work supports like transportation, work clothes, tools, and sometimes car repairs. Ask your case manager about available work supports.

How do I get WIC for my baby and toddler?

Call 1-800-464-4343 or apply at Vermont WIC. Benefits include formula, baby food, milk, eggs, cereal, and fresh produce money.

I have a shutoff notice. Who do I call?

Call your Community Action Agency immediately (regional numbers listed above) and DCF at 1-800-479-6151 for Fuel Assistance. For Green Mountain Power customers, ask about the Energy Assistance Program discount.

Can I get childcare help while I look for work?

Yes. The Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) can help during job search or training. Start with your Reach Up case manager, or call 1-800-479-6151.

Do I have to cooperate with child support to get Reach Up?

Usually yes, but there are good-cause exemptions for safety reasons (domestic violence). Talk to DCF about your situation.

What if I missed my phone interview for 3SquaresVT?

Call 1-800-479-6151 immediately to reschedule. Ask them to keep your application open. You need the interview before approval.

How do I appeal if DCF denies me?

You can appeal in writing, by phone, or in person within 90 days for most programs. Get help from Vermont Legal Aid at 1-800-889-2047. You may keep benefits during appeal in some cases.

Are there programs just for single moms in college?

Reach Up may support education plans through Post-Secondary Education (PSE) program. Contact your case manager about training-focused benefits and child care assistance.

Disclaimer

Program rules, benefit amounts, and income limits change frequently. This guide provides general information as of August 2025, but you should always verify current requirements with the specific agency before applying. Contact information and program availability can change without notice.

This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For legal questions about benefits, appeals, or eligibility, contact Vermont Legal Aid at 1-800-889-2047.

The information in this guide comes from official government sources, but errors can occur. Always check with the agency directly for the most current and accurate information about your specific situation.

When in doubt, apply anyway. It’s better to try and be denied than to assume you don’t qualify and miss out on help you need.

Resumen en Español – Ayuda de Emergencia para Madres Solteras en Vermont

Ayuda Inmediata (Llame Hoy)

• Emergencia: Llame 911 • Necesita refugio: Llame 211 o envíe su código postal al 898211 • Sin comida: Solicite 3SquaresVT en myBenefits Vermont – beneficios en 7 días • Van a cortar los servicios: Llame a su Agencia de Acción Comunitaria local • Perdió su trabajo: Solicite desempleo en labor.vermont.gov o 1-877-214-3330 • Embarazada o niños menores de 5 años: Llame WIC al 1-800-464-4343

Programas Principales

3SquaresVT (Cupones de Comida): Beneficios mensuales según las normas federales. Solicite en myBenefits Vermont. Reach Up (Ayuda en Efectivo): Hasta $856/mes para familia de 3 fuera del Condado de Chittenden. WIC (Mujeres, Bebés, Niños): Comida especial para embarazadas y niños menores de 5. Dr. Dynasaur: Cobertura médica gratuita para niños hasta 317% del nivel de pobreza. Ayuda con Combustible: $21-$1,843 por temporada para calefacción.

Números Importantes

• DCF Vermont: 1-800-479-6151 (servicios de traducción disponibles) • Vermont Health Connect: 1-855-899-9600 • WIC: 1-800-464-4343 • Desempleo: 1-877-214-3330 • Servicios Legales: 1-800-889-2047

Nota: Los niños ciudadanos estadounidenses pueden calificar aunque los padres sean indocumentados. Vermont no reportará a las autoridades de inmigración.

About This Guide

Compiled by ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Vermont Department for Children and Families, USDA Food and Nutrition Service, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Vermont Health Connect, and Vermont Department of Health.

This comprehensive resource follows our editorial standards using only official government sources and established organizations. While carefully researched and regularly updated, this guide is not affiliated with any government agency and is not a substitute for official agency guidance.

Last verified: August 2025
Next review: February 2026

Despite our careful verification process, errors may occur. Email corrections to info@asinglemother.org and we respond within 48 hours to serve Vermont families better.

Official Sources

This guide references current policies and benefit amounts from:

• Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) – dcf.vermont.gov • Vermont Health Connect – portal.healthconnect.vermont.gov • USDA Food and Nutrition Service – fns.usda.gov • U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – hud.gov • Vermont Department of Health (WIC) – healthvermont.gov • Vermont Department of Labor – labor.vermont.gov • Vermont State Housing Authority – vsha.org • Vermont Legal Aid – vtlawhelp.org • Vermont 211 – vermont211.org

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