Free Furniture & Household Items for Single Mothers in Vermont

Last updated: September 2025

This is a no‑nonsense, Vermont‑specific guide to finding free or nearly free furniture and household goods fast. You’ll see exactly who to call, what to say, what papers to bring, how long it takes, and a backup plan if the first door doesn’t open. Links go straight to the program pages.

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If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

• Call Vermont 2‑1‑1 now: ask for a “furniture or essential goods voucher referral” and “nearest same‑day pickup options.” You can dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑866‑652‑4636, or use the online directory at Vermont 2‑1‑1 and request matching to ReSOURCE’s Essential Goods vouchers. Expect a quick screening and warm hand‑off to a partner agency. (vermont211.org)
• Ask your Community Action Agency for a store voucher today: tell the front desk you need “emergency household goods.” Find your regional agency through Vermont Community Action Partnership or call the statewide line on the agency page. In Windham & Windsor counties, ask for SEVCA’s “Thrift Store Network” voucher accepted at partner thrift stores. SEVCA’s network page lists where vouchers are honored. (sevca.org)
• If you’ve just moved from shelter or crisis housing, request a voucher letter from your caseworker: programs like COVER Home Repair’s Store Assistance Program and CVOEO housing programs accept referrals for free or heavily discounted goods. Ask for “household setup” or “Welcome Home” help. (coverhomerepair.org)

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Quick Help Box – Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• Vermont 2‑1‑1: 2‑1‑1 or 1‑866‑652‑4636; text your ZIP to 898211; online directory at vermont211.org. Agency of Human Services Help page explains 2‑1‑1 too. (vermont211.org)
• DCF Economic Services Line: 1‑800‑479‑6151; language line 1‑855‑247‑3092 on DCF contacts and listed on Vermont Food Help. Ask about Emergency/General Assistance for “personal needs” and EBT. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• ReSOURCE stores and voucher info: program details at Essential Goods Program; store locations in Barre, Burlington, Hyde Park, Williston on the VT Victim Resources listing. Call 1‑802‑857‑4344 for voucher questions. (resourcevt.org)
• COVER Store (Upper Valley): vouchers for essential goods with agency referral; 158 S Main St, White River Junction; 1‑802‑296‑7241; details at COVER Store and 2‑1‑1 listing. (coverhomerepair.org)
• Tenant and housing hotlines: Vermont Tenants hotline 1‑802‑864‑0099 and Human Services Board Fair Hearing if a state benefit decision blocks you from getting help (appeal info and forms). (cvoeo.org)

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Who gives free furniture and essential goods in Vermont right now

Start with programs that can issue or accept vouchers the same week. You’ll find statewide doors, then county options.

Statewide programs you can access today

Most important first: use a voucher pathway. The fastest way to get actual beds, dressers, kitchen gear, and small appliances is a store voucher from a recognized partner that you can redeem at a reuse store.

• ReSOURCE Essential Goods Program. You do not apply to ReSOURCE directly; a partner agency issues the voucher after screening. Ask 2‑1‑1 to match you with a partner in your county, then shop at ReSOURCE stores in Barre, Burlington, Hyde Park, or Williston. See the voucher rules, what’s covered, and store info at ReSOURCE Essential Goods and on the FAQ page. (resourcevt.org)
• COVER Store Assistance Program (Upper Valley, VT/NH border). With an agency referral, low‑income households can get vouchers to pick up furniture and housewares at the COVER Store in White River Junction. Check hours and pickup options on COVER Store and see the 2‑1‑1 listing noting the voucher program. (coverhomerepair.org)
• Community Action Agency vouchers. Vermont’s five Community Action Agencies can issue vouchers or refer you to the correct voucher‑accepting thrift store. Find your agency via Vermont Community Action Partnership and contact your regional office (SEVCA, CVOEO, Capstone, BROC, NEKCA). For Windham & Windsor counties, SEVCA’s new Thrift Store Network replaces SEVCA’s former stores and honors SEVCA vouchers at participating shops. (vermontcap.org)
• Faith‑based and local voucher partners. In Burlington, the city lists organizations that sometimes provide thrift vouchers or emergency basic goods (JUMP, Joseph’s House, Salvation Army). See the “Food & Basic Needs” page at City of Burlington and call the numbers posted. (burlingtonvt.gov)
• Habitat for Humanity ReStore locations. Stores in Williston, Milton, and Swanton (Green Mountain Habitat) plus West Rutland and Manchester Center (county chapters) sell furniture at low prices; some agencies will write a voucher to spend there. Check hours and free pickup for donations at Green Mountain Habitat ReStores and the national ReStore listing. (vermonthabitat.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 2‑1‑1 for “the nearest voucher‑accepting thrift option today,” then call your Community Action front desk and request “emergency household goods” plus a written voucher letter. If you’re in the Upper Valley, ask COVER about its Store Assistance Program and have your caseworker email the referral. (coverhomerepair.org)

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Eligibility, documents, and how to get a voucher fast

Vermont voucher programs usually look for three things: proof you live here, proof of need, and a basic inventory of what you’re missing. Expect a simple screening by phone or in person.

• Typical eligibility: Vermont address, low income or crisis, and a need to set up or stabilize a home. ReSOURCE vouchers are issued by partner agencies after they verify need; COVER requires an agency referral for store assistance. See ReSOURCE’s process and COVER’s description. (resourcevt.org)
• Documents to bring: photo ID, current mail with your name and Vermont address, proof of benefits or income (if available), and a short list of priority items. If you receive help from DCF’s Economic Services Division, ask your worker for a “voucher support letter.” The DCF helpline and language line numbers are posted at DCF Helplines. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Timelines: simple voucher referrals can take 1–3 business days; complex cases with multiple items or special needs may take a week. ReSOURCE vouchers are valid during their fiscal year, so use them before year‑end; see the timing rules on ReSOURCE FAQs. (resourcevt.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the screener for one immediate stop‑gap—“Do you have a partner who can issue a small voucher today for a bed and kitchen basics?” Then ask for referrals to Habitat ReStore locations that honor vouchers from your agency. (vermonthabitat.org)

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Snapshot: programs and where to go

Resources: ReSOURCE Essential Goods, COVER Store info, SEVCA Thrift Store Network. (resourcevt.org)

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How to apply step‑by‑step (and what to say)

• Step 1 — Call 2‑1‑1. Say: “I’m a single mom in Vermont. I need a voucher for essential household goods this week. Please refer me to a partner agency for ReSOURCE or COVER Store.” Use Vermont 2‑1‑1 or call 1‑866‑652‑4636. (vermont211.org)
• Step 2 — Contact your Community Action Agency. Ask for “Family Services” or “basic needs.” Tell them your move‑in or crisis date, ages of children, and top five items. Find your agency via Vermont Community Action Partnership; Capstone, CVOEO, NEKCA, BROC, and SEVCA serve all counties. (vermontcap.org)
• Step 3 — Get a referral letter. Ask your DCF worker, shelter advocate, or housing case manager to write a one‑page note confirming need. If you’re in a CVOEO HOME voucher, ask about “Welcome Home” essential needs help listed on CVOEO’s program page. (cvoeo.org)
• Step 4 — Shop smart. Bring ID, the voucher, and tie‑down straps if you plan to haul. ReSOURCE stores list what vouchers cover in the FAQs at ReSOURCE; COVER also posts donation and pickup guidance at COVER Store. (resourcevt.org)
• Step 5 — Keep your receipt and unused balance. ReSOURCE vouchers can be used over multiple visits until they expire at fiscal year‑end (policy detailed on ReSOURCE FAQs). Ask the cashier to note the remaining amount. (resourcevt.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 again the same day. Ask them to search by keyword “voucher,” “furniture bank,” and “thrift” within 30 miles, including the SEVCA network and Habitat ReStores. (sevca.org)

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Reality check: stock, safety rules, and wait times

Programs depend on donations. Mattresses, cribs, and car seats are often restricted for safety. You may not get a couch today, but you can usually find a safe bed frame, table, and kitchen basics.

• ReSOURCE lists what vouchers do and don’t cover (no laptops; many appliances OK) at Essential Goods FAQs, and stores post weekly inventory on site. (resourcevt.org)
• COVER Store accepts “like‑new mattresses” and offers free pickup for large donations; call to confirm current policy at COVER Store. (coverhomerepair.org)
• SEVCA’s thrift stores closed in 2023, but in 2025 SEVCA operates a county‑wide voucher network that honors SEVCA vouchers at partner shops across Windham/Windsor. See details at SEVCA Thrift Store Network. (sevca.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use hyper‑local free platforms—Front Porch Forum and Freecycle. Ask for “porch pickup” and bring a friend for safety; FPF’s team has warned about scam emails, so confirm in‑app messaging first. (help.frontporchforum.com)

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State and federal cash or benefit programs you can tap for household setup

Even if there’s no “furniture grant,” Vermont programs can free up cash or give direct help so you can buy household basics.

• Emergency/General Assistance (EA/GA) through DCF helps with emergency basic needs and pays vendors directly; “personal needs” may be paid on EBT. Apply at your district office; program info at DCF EA/GA and EBT details. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Reach First / Reach Up are cash and case management programs for families with minor children. Apply online or at DCF; see Reach First and Reach Up. Cash benefits go to your EBT card monthly. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• 3SquaresVT (food help) can free up cash otherwise going to groceries. Apply at 3SquaresVT or get county help via CVOEO. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Parent Child Centers often give “concrete supports” like diapers and wipes; some centers run diaper banks (Springfield’s is active). See the PCC list at DCF Parent Child Centers and Springfield’s diaper bank page. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a same‑day callback from your DCF worker or call 1‑800‑479‑6151. Say you need “EA/GA for personal needs” to set up a new home after crisis. Ask about local voucher partners like ReSOURCE and COVER. See DCF helplines. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Utility costs blocking furniture purchases? How to stop a shutoff in Vermont today

If your power is at risk, get protected first so you can redirect cash to beds and kitchen gear. Vermont rules give you rights, especially in winter.

• Cold‑weather protections: From November 1–March 31, extra steps are required before a shutoff. Disconnections are barred when forecast lows are below 10°F, and for households with a resident 62+ they’re barred if the 48‑hour forecast dips below 32°F (with prior notice to the utility). See the Public Utility Commission’s disconnection rule summaries and texts. PUC Rule 3.300 – disconnections and legal text at Justia/Cornell. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
• Discounts that free up cash: Green Mountain Power’s Energy Assistance Program gives a 25% monthly discount to eligible households; apply through DCF at Energy Assistance or read GMP’s page. Burlington Electric’s EAP gives a 12.5% discount to eligible customers; see BED EAP. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Crisis fuel and heat repairs: Crisis Fuel can buy fuel or pay electric needed to run your heating system; Emergency Heating System Program can repair or replace your primary heat in winter. See Emergency Heating System Program and ask your Community Action office. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• If you already got a shutoff notice from GMP: Ask for the Power Partners program—pay 25% of the past‑due and GMP covers another 25% (up to a cap), then set a plan. Details at VT Law Help – energy assistance. (vtlawhelp.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your utility and say, “I want a winter repayment plan and to apply for EAP today.” If denied, call the Department of Public Service consumer line (see utility protections) and your Community Action office for advocacy. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

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Where to shop with vouchers or low cost in your region

Use these as your “first stop” lists. Call ahead to confirm stock and whether they honor your voucher.

Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle, and Lamoille (Northwest VT)

• ReSOURCE Burlington & Williston: vouchers accepted; see store contacts on ReSOURCE program page and location details via VT Victim Resources listing. Store list shows phone numbers and hours. (resourcevt.org)
• Green Mountain Habitat ReStores: Williston, Milton, Swanton; check free donation pickup and hours at GMHFH ReStores and the Williston store page. (vermonthabitat.org)
• CVOEO support: renters hotline and housing resources at CVOEO Hotlines can point you to local goods or one‑time “Welcome Home” help for HOME voucher families at CVOEO HOME program. (cvoeo.org)

Plan B: Use Front Porch Forum and Freecycle Burlington to grab free items close by. (help.frontporchforum.com)

Washington, Orange, and Lamoille (Central VT)

• ReSOURCE Barre & Hyde Park: vouchers accepted; call ahead (Barre 1‑802‑477‑7800, Hyde Park 1‑802‑851‑8333) from the VT Victim Resources listing and ReSOURCE Essential Goods. (vtvictimresources.com)
• Capstone Community Action: ask Family Services for “emergency household goods” and referrals; contacts and offices at Capstone contact page. (capstonevt.org)

Plan B: Check your solid waste district’s reuse lists (Central VT SWMD keeps an updated secondhand directory). See CVSWMD Reuse and Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. (cvswmd.org)

Rutland and Bennington (Southwest VT)

• Habitat ReStore – West Rutland: low‑cost furniture; call 1‑802‑747‑7440 and check Rutland Habitat. (rutlandhabitat.com)
• Bennington County ReStore (Manchester Center): hours and pickup at Bennington County HFH ReStore and “donate furniture” page at ReStore Donations. (benningtoncountyhabitat.org)
• BROC Community Action: ask for Family Services and voucher help; main line 1‑802‑775‑0878; see BROC site. (broc.org)

Plan B: Local nonprofits like Black River Good Neighbor Services (Ludlow—near county line) run a furniture store and may honor partner vouchers; see BRGNS info. (brgn.org)

Windham and Windsor (Southeast VT)

• SEVCA Thrift Store Network: SEVCA now issues vouchers honored by partner thrift stores across both counties. Start with SEVCA network page or call 1‑800‑464‑9951. (sevca.org)
• COVER Store (White River Junction): with referral, you can get a voucher for essential goods; see COVER’s listing and COVER Store hours. (search.vermont211.org)
• Upper Valley Haven: if you’re moving from Haven services, ask your coordinator about household goods and COVER vouchers; Haven contact page lists a Household Goods contact. (uppervalleyhaven.org)

Plan B: LISTEN Community Services (Upper Valley, NH/VT) offers thrift vouchers—call 1‑603‑448‑4553; see LISTEN voucher info. (listencs.org)

Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans (Northeast Kingdom)

• NEKCA: ask about current thrift partners and emergency goods; main line 1‑855‑663‑5224; locations at NEKCA. Their Newport “See More Thrift” closed temporarily in Feb. 2025, so call to confirm current options. See news from Newport Dispatch. (nekcavt.org)
• ReSOURCE Hyde Park may be the nearest voucher store for Lamoille/NEK edge—check ReSOURCE info and call 1‑802‑851‑8333. (resourcevt.org)

Plan B: Use Front Porch Forum and Freecycle in Essex County; arrange daylight porch pickups. (help.frontporchforum.com)

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Online free stuff sources Vermonters actually use

FPF has warned about out‑of‑state scammers targeting members via email; engage within FPF whenever possible. See a recent note on scams reported by local media at Compass Vermont. (compassvermont.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Go hyper‑local—search your town’s FPF for “Moving sale—free,” check the “Free” category in Marketplace, and set post alerts.

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Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups

These groups often help with goods directly or as voucher partners. Always call first.

• Salvation Army: Burlington Corps (meals, emergency basics) and Rutland Service Center. See Burlington Corps listing and Rutland Service Center. Burlington’s city page also lists the Corps for emergency help. City page. (salvationarmyusa.org)
• Upper Valley Haven: household goods help for clients; contact Household Goods at 1‑802‑478‑1808 on Haven contacts. COVER is a frequent partner; see Haven’s note about COVER vouchers here. (uppervalleyhaven.org)
• Vermont Catholic Charities: emergency aid statewide (utilities, deposits, sometimes basic goods). Contacts at Vermont Catholic Charities and in Burlington’s resource list. City listing. (vtcatholiccharities.org)
• CVOEO’s network (Chittenden/Addison/Franklin‑Grand Isle): includes Feeding Chittenden and Vermont Tenants hotline, and supports households with basic needs; see CVOEO and hotlines. (cvoeo.org)
• Black River Good Neighbor Services (Ludlow): furniture store, pantry, and thrift—often works with local vouchers; see BRGNS. (brgn.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask these groups for a referral letter you can take to ReSOURCE or the COVER Store for voucher use. (resourcevt.org)

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Diverse Communities: tailored tips and contacts

Each of these communities often faces extra barriers. Use these specific doors and ask for accommodations.

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for safe‑shelter coordinated entry and privacy flags with your Community Action agency. The Pride Center of Vermont can help you find affirming providers; CVOEO enforces fair housing rights and bars discrimination by sexual orientation and gender identity. Review your rights at CVOEO Fair Housing. If you need address confidentiality, Vermont’s Safe at Home program can shield your address on public records. (cvoeo.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for accessibility pickups and large‑print forms. The Vermont Assistive Technology Program runs a free device loaner program and an AT Exchange where you can find hospital beds and DME for free or low cost; VCIL’s Home Access Program can fund ramps and bathroom changes. For phone access, dial 7‑1‑1 to reach Vermont Relay; see the FCC guide. (atp.vermont.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask for SSVF—Supportive Services for Veteran Families can pay deposits, moving costs, and basic setup while rehousing. In Vermont, SSVF is run by UVM statewide; intake 1‑802‑656‑3232 or 1‑844‑820‑3232 at SSVF @ UVM. Learn more at VA SSVF and find state supports through the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs. (ssvf-uvm.com)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: Ask for a culturally matched case manager and interpreters. USCRI Vermont and AALV help with household setup and referrals for goods; see USCRI donate items page (VT accepts beds/frames) and AALV contact. The Vermont Commission on Women lists “New Americans” resources at this page. (refugees.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: Ask 2‑1‑1 to search for “Abenaki” partners near you and request a culturally specific advocate. State‑recognized Abenaki organizations can offer community supports; also check “Tribal” filters in 2‑1‑1. See the AHS Help & Resources page to start and then ask 2‑1‑1 for referrals. (humanservices.vermont.gov)
• Rural single moms: Use mobile outreach and call‑backs. If transport is hard, ask ReSOURCE or Habitat about delivery or holds. Many solid waste districts post reuse directories; Addison County’s guide lists local thrift options and reuse tips. (addisoncountyrecycles.org)
• Single fathers: Most programs are gender‑neutral. You can access the same vouchers and supports through Vermont 2‑1‑1 and your Community Action Agency. (vermont211.org)
• Language access: Ask every agency for an interpreter by language. DCF’s interpretation line is 1‑855‑247‑3092 listed on DCF contacts; you can also use 7‑1‑1 for relay services for hearing or speech. Vermont Relay info explains options. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask to escalate to a supervisor and request “reasonable accommodations,” including large‑print forms, curbside pickup, or a caseworker meeting by phone with a qualified interpreter.

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting for the “perfect” item instead of grabbing the basics. Beds, a kitchen table, and cookware should come first. ReSOURCE vouchers must be used within the program year; see rules on ReSOURCE FAQs. (resourcevt.org)
• Skipping the voucher letter. A one‑page caseworker letter speeds up referrals to COVER Store and SEVCA’s network. (coverhomerepair.org)
• Ignoring your utility bill while you focus on furniture. Vermont has strong shutoff protections, but you must call and set a plan. Read PUC guidance and enroll in GMP EAP or BED EAP to free up cash. (publicservice.vermont.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

(vermont211.org)

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Application Checklist you can screenshot

• Photo ID: license or other government‑issued ID.
• Proof of Vermont address: recent mail, lease, or shelter letter.
• Proof of income or benefits: paystub, Reach Up, 3SquaresVT, or case note.
• Voucher referral letter: one page from caseworker or Community Action.
• Priority list: top five items (bed, table, chairs, pans, lamps).
• Transport plan: who can pick up, or ask store about delivery/holds.
• Interpreter or accessibility request: note if you need language help or large print.

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Troubleshooting: If your application gets denied

• Ask for the reason in writing and what you can fix. For state benefits tied to your request (EA/GA, Reach Up), you have a right to a fair hearing through the Human Services Board; there’s an online request form and phone line at 1‑802‑828‑2536. (humanservices.vermont.gov)
• Appeal timelines: you usually have 60–120 days depending on the program; healthcare appeals and fair hearings are explained on DVHA’s appeals page. If you want benefits to continue during the appeal, say so when you file. (dvha.vermont.gov)
• Get free legal help: Vermont Legal Aid covers benefit and housing issues and is actively litigating GA emergency housing due process (see 2025 court actions on their site). Ask for a call back if lines are busy. VLA update. (vtlawhelp.org)

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County‑by‑county variations you should know

• Windham/Windsor: SEVCA’s own thrift stores closed, but SEVCA runs a partner store network that honors SEVCA vouchers. Always call SEVCA first for a voucher, then choose a partner store near you. SEVCA Thrift Network. (sevca.org)
• NEK: NEKCA’s “See More Thrift” in Newport closed temporarily in Feb. 2025 due to funding concerns, so ask NEKCA which partners are active now. Newport Dispatch coverage. (newportdispatch.com)
• Burlington/Chittenden: You have multiple ReSOURCE and Habitat options. Burlington Electric’s 12.5% EAP discount can free up cash for household setup. See BED EAP. (burlingtonelectric.com)

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Real‑world examples

• New HOME voucher mom in Winooski: CVOEO issued a “Welcome Home” small grant for basics and a referral letter for ReSOURCE. She picked up a table and four chairs in Williston within 48 hours. See CVOEO HOME program and ReSOURCE voucher rules. (cvoeo.org)
• Upper Valley renter after a fire: Her advocate referred her to the COVER Store Assistance Program; she used a voucher to pick out a bed frame, dresser, and lamps. Program noted in COVER’s 2‑1‑1 listing. (search.vermont211.org)
• Brattleboro family after lost income: SEVCA issued a voucher under its new county network; they redeemed it at a partner thrift store for linens and cookware. Details at SEVCA Thrift Store Network. (sevca.org)

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Tables you can skim and use

A. Community Action Agencies by region

(cvoeo.org)

B. Voucher‑friendly stores and reuse centers

(resourcevt.org)

C. Utility help that frees up money for furniture

(dcf.vermont.gov)

D. 2‑1‑1 and state contacts

(vermont211.org)

E. Burlington‑area low‑cost sources (sample)

(vermonthabitat.org)

F. Upper Valley quick list (sample)

(coverhomerepair.org)

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“How do I keep costs down?” Practical tips

• Bundle pickup: ask the store to hold items for 24–48 hours while you arrange one truck run. ReSOURCE and Habitat ReStores list pickup options and hours—call to confirm. (resourcevt.org)
• Use discounts: enrolling in GMP EAP or BED EAP can free $20–$30 per month for basics. (greenmountainpower.com)
• Grab essentials first: cookware, bedding, lighting, and a table make the biggest daily difference. COVER and ReSOURCE list “most needed” basics on their sites: see COVER Store and ReSOURCE FAQs. (coverhomerepair.org)

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FAQs (Vermont‑specific)

1. How fast can I get a voucher in Vermont?
   If you already work with a case manager, same‑week is common. Without one, call Vermont 2‑1‑1 and ask for a partner agency referral for ReSOURCE Essential Goods. Many families shop within 1–3 business days. Always call to confirm your voucher is in the system before you go. (vermont211.org)
2. Will they deliver?
   Some stores offer delivery for a fee or provide loading help. COVER offers free donation pickups and can advise on loading; ask about delivery or holds when you call. See COVER Store info and GMHFH ReStores pages for current policies. (coverhomerepair.org)
3. Can I get a mattress?
   Policies vary. COVER accepts like‑new mattresses; many stores restrict used mattresses for safety. Check stock and rules at COVER Store and ReSOURCE FAQs. (coverhomerepair.org)
4. I don’t have child care; can I do this by phone?
   Yes. Request a phone screening and ask for an emailed voucher and a curbside pickup window. Language help is available—ask DCF to arrange an interpreter at 1‑855‑247‑3092 (posted on DCF Helplines). (dcf.vermont.gov)
5. I’m at risk of shutoff—should I pause furniture shopping?
   Call your utility, enroll in EAP discounts, and set a payment plan under Vermont’s winter rules. That can free money for essentials. Read the PUC disconnection protections. (dcf.vermont.gov)
6. I’m a veteran—do I have more options?
   Yes. SSVF can pay deposits, moving, and startup costs for veterans in or near homelessness. Call SSVF @ UVM at 1‑802‑656‑3232 and ask about temporary financial assistance for household setup. (ssvf-uvm.com)
7. Are there diapers or baby gear?
   PCCs provide “concrete supports” like diapers; see Parent Child Centers. Some diaper banks closed, but centers continue local distributions (Springfield PCC runs a diaper bank). Always call to confirm sizes in stock. (dcf.vermont.gov)
8. I was denied EA/GA or told to wait—what now?
   Ask for the denial in writing and request a fair hearing with the Human Services Board. For help, contact Vermont Legal Aid (they are actively litigating GA due process issues in 2025). (humanservices.vermont.gov)
9. What about people new to Vermont or refugees?
   Ask USCRI Vermont or AALV for a case manager and household setup help; see USCRI donate items page and AALV contact. 2‑1‑1 can also refer you to multilingual providers. (refugees.org)
10. Can the city or waste district help me find free stuff?
    Yes. Many post reuse directories and events. For example, Central VT SWMD has a secondhand shop directory at CVSWMD Reuse, and Addison County lists furniture reuse tips at ACSWMD furniture guide. (cvswmd.org)

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Spanish summary / Resumen en español

Esta guía ofrece caminos rápidos para conseguir muebles y artículos del hogar gratis o de bajo costo en Vermont. Llame a 2‑1‑1 para pedir una derivación (“voucher”) al programa Essential Goods de ReSOURCE o al COVER Store. Pida ayuda a su agencia de Community Action (SEVCA, CVOEO, Capstone, BROC, NEKCA) para obtener un “voucher” y para otros apoyos. Para frenar un corte de electricidad, inscríbase en Energy Assistance (GMP 25%, BED 12.5%) y negocie un plan de pago bajo las reglas de invierno del Estado: protecciones del Public Utility Commission. Pida un intérprete cuando llame a DCF (línea de idiomas 1‑855‑247‑3092). Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; confirme detalles llamando a las oficinas enlazadas. (resourcevt.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Vermont 2‑1‑1
• Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF)
• Vermont Public Utility Commission/Department of Public Service
• ReSOURCE Essential Goods Program
• SEVCA Thrift Store Network
• COVER Home Repair & Store
• Green Mountain Habitat for Humanity ReStores
• CVOEO programs and hotlines

Last verified: September 2025, next review April January 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.

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Disclaimer

Purpose: this guide shares public information and practical steps to help Vermont families find free or low‑cost furniture and household goods.

No guarantees: funding, stock, rules, and wait times change. Call to confirm current availability before applying and ask the agency for written instructions. Nothing here is legal advice. If your application is denied, you can appeal through the Human Services Board and get help from Vermont Legal Aid. See HSB fair hearings and VT Law Help. (humanservices.vermont.gov)

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What to do next

• Make two calls: 2‑1‑1 for a voucher referral; your Community Action office for a same‑week appointment.
• Ask for a one‑page letter from your caseworker, then shop ReSOURCE or COVER Store first.
• Enroll in a utility discount so more cash can go to furniture—GMP EAP or BED EAP. (resourcevt.org)

If a door closes, try the backup in each section. You’re not asking for favors—you’re using programs built to get families what they need to make a home.

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🏛️More Vermont Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Vermont

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery