Free School Supplies and Backpacks for Single Mothers in Vermont — 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, Vermont‑specific hub for getting free backpacks, grade‑level school supplies, and related help fast. Every section includes direct links, phone numbers, and plan‑B options. Keep this page open while you call, text, or apply.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call or text Vermont 2‑1‑1 and ask for “back‑to‑school supplies and backpack programs.” If lines are busy, call again or use the online directory. Also ask about fuel help, rent help, and crisis services you might qualify for. (vermont211.org)
• Email or call your district’s McKinney‑Vento Homeless Liaison and ask for immediate school supplies and transportation help. Find your liaison on the Vermont Agency of Education Homeless Liaison list and write down the State Coordinator phone 1‑802‑828‑1468. (education.vermont.gov)
• If it’s July–September, check the dates for the biggest events. In Chittenden County, COTS runs the free K‑12 “Back to School Bonanza” in Burlington with backpacks, supplies, clothing, and haircuts; in Addison County, United Way’s “Stuff the Bus” distributes backpacks countywide. Use the linked pages to confirm the current year’s schedule. COTS Back to School Bonanza and United Way of Addison County Stuff the Bus. (cotsonline.org)

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Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

• DCF Benefits Service Center: 1‑800‑479‑6151 — ask about 3SquaresVT (food), Fuel Assistance, and Reach Up supports; you can also apply on the myBenefits portal. Department for Children and Families. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Vermont Summer EBT support line: 1‑888‑354‑0012 (Option 7) — report card issues and check benefit status; program info at Vermont Summer EBT. Kingdom East Schools S‑EBT update confirms the $120 per child for summer 2025. (summerebt.vermont.gov)
• Vermont Agency of Education (AOE) Homeless Education: State Coordinator 1‑802‑828‑1468, liaison directory on AOE Homelessness Resources, liaison list on AOE Liaison Contact List. (education.vermont.gov)
• Community Action (ask about local supply drives and crisis fuel): CVOEO (Champlain Valley) and SEVCA (Windham/Windsor); statewide list at Vermont Community Action Agencies. (cvoeo.org)
• Public school district help in Burlington area: Burlington School District Student Support Services and Community Supports; call 1‑802‑865‑5332 and ask for the Homelessness contact listed on the Student Support Services page. (bsdvt.org)

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How to Get a Free Backpack and School Supplies in Vermont (Fast)

Start with the most certain options first, then work down. Use the “Plan B” if one option is out of stock or closed.

Statewide, School‑Based, and Event Programs

• COTS Back to School Bonanza, Burlington: K‑12 students in need pick their own backpack, grade‑level supplies, first‑day outfit, snacks, and get free haircuts while supplies last. Check the posted date and plan to arrive early with your kids present. See COTS event details and local listing Find & Go Seek page. (cotsonline.org)
• Addison County — Stuff the Bus (United Way of Addison County): New backpacks are pre‑distributed at published sites across the county the week of August 19 (call ahead; inventory moves fast). See updated site list on United Way of Addison County Stuff the Bus and general program note on United Way Addison “Our Programs”. (unitedwayaddisoncounty.org)
• NBC5 and Vermont Federal Credit Union “Stuff the Bus” (donation drive) — Chittenden/Franklin/Grand Isle/Washington: This July–August drive collects supplies that are distributed to local partners; families usually receive items via schools and nonprofits. See drop‑off sites and the August collection event at Staples Williston on the Vermont Federal Credit Union announcement, and confirm where finished kits are distributed. (vermontfederal.org)
• Salvation Army Back‑to‑School efforts: Most Vermont Corps partner through the national Walmart “Stuff the Bus” day or run local distributions. Use the Salvation Army Stuff the Bus page to locate your closest Corps and ask about 2025 backpack pick‑ups; for Rutland, start with the Rutland Service Center contact. (salvationarmyusa.org)
• Check your school district’s student services: Ask for the McKinney‑Vento liaison and “back‑to‑school supply support.” Burlington lists a Homelessness contact within Student Support Services; AOE keeps a statewide liaison directory. Liaison support can include immediate supplies and transportation. (bsdvt.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Vermont 2‑1‑1 and ask the specialist to search “school supplies,” “back‑to‑school,” and “youth clothing” by your ZIP, then call those listings the same day. Ask the specialist to warm‑transfer you to local Community Action to check for late‑season distributions. (vermont211.org)

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School‑Based Rights That Unlock Supplies and Support

If you are doubled‑up with family/friends, staying in a motel/shelter, or otherwise without stable housing, your child has federal rights under McKinney‑Vento. High‑impact steps:

• Ask the Homeless Liaison, in writing, for immediate help: Liaisons can authorize school supplies, transportation to the school of origin, and fee waivers. Find your liaison on the AOE liaison list and keep the AOE Homeless Education page handy. (education.vermont.gov)
• Use the district contact: In Burlington, start with Student Support Services (1‑802‑864‑8456) and ask for the listed Homelessness contact; the district also posts general Community Supports. (bsdvt.org)
• Food helps the budget: If your child meets McKinney‑Vento criteria, you also qualify for school meals at no charge. Vermont law funds universal meals in public schools that maximize federal options like CEP/Provision 2; see Vermont statute 16 V.S.A. §1264 and §4017 universal meals supplement, plus AOE’s School Meals page. (legislature.vermont.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate in writing to your principal and cc the State Coordinator (1‑802‑828‑1468) from the AOE resource page. Ask for written notice if any request is denied; you can appeal and your child stays enrolled during the dispute. (education.vermont.gov)

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Add These Budget Stretchers: Food and Essentials That Free Up Cash for Supplies

• 3SquaresVT (SNAP) and Summer EBT: Apply for monthly grocery help or confirm your Summer EBT $120 per eligible child. Use 3SquaresVT and the Summer EBT site; if you didn’t get an automatic S‑EBT letter by early July, submit the short application online or call 1‑888‑354‑0012. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Vermont Foodbank’s BackPack (food bags through schools): Ask your elementary school if it participates; weekly “BackPack” bags cover weekend meals for kids and are discreetly distributed at school. See the Vermont Foodbank BackPack program list of schools and contact your school office to enroll. (vtfoodbank.org)
• ReSOURCE Essential Goods vouchers: If you also need a desk, lamp, or desktop computer for homework, ask a partner agency for a voucher redeemable at ReSOURCE stores (Burlington, Williston, Barre, Hyde Park). Start at ReSOURCE Essential Goods Program and dial 2‑1‑1 to be matched to a partner agency. (resourcevt.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Vermont 2‑1‑1 and ask for “food shelves near me” and “youth clothing closets.” Ask your school nurse or counselor for supply closet access and gift cards available to staff for urgent needs. (vermont211.org)

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2025 Vermont Events, Programs, and Where to Check Dates

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

• Chittenden County: Try COTS for the August Bonanza and CVOEO Community Action for local referrals and Warmth support; Burlington schools post Student Support Services with a Homelessness contact. (cotsonline.org)
• Addison County: United Way of Addison County coordinates backpack distribution; shelters and youth orgs like Charter House Coalition can often request extra kits. Ask DCF Middlebury District Office for printed lists. (unitedwayaddisoncounty.org)
• Rutland County: If your child needs shoes for school, ask about the United Way of Rutland County “Happy Feet” program; for general help, call BROC Community Action. (uwrutlandcounty.org)
• Northeast Kingdom: Contact NEKCA for local school supply referrals; note that the Holland Food Shelf is closing in late September 2025, so plan for longer trips to other pantries. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Upper Valley / Windsor & Windham: Reach out to SEVCA locations for family services, and check Boys & Girls Club of Brattleboro membership if your teen needs a safe after‑school spot (no one turned away for lack of funds). (portal.sevca.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Vermont 2‑1‑1 and ask the specialist to search “school supplies,” “youth services,” and “faith‑based assistance” in your ZIP; ask for a warm transfer to the nearest site so you can confirm stock. (vermont211.org)

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Resources by Region (Save this table)

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Step‑By‑Step: Your One‑Week Game Plan

• Day 1: Call Vermont 2‑1‑1 and your school’s McKinney‑Vento liaison. Ask for immediate supplies and any upcoming events. (vermont211.org)
• Day 2–3: If you live near Burlington, register your calendar for COTS Back to School Bonanza; if you are in Addison County, call the UWAC distribution sites to confirm dates and stock. (cotsonline.org)
• Day 4: Apply for 3SquaresVT and check your Summer EBT status; this frees up cash for shoes and clothing. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Day 5–7: If you still need items, ask ReSOURCE Essential Goods partners for a voucher toward a desk, lamp, or desktop computer for home study. For sneakers in Rutland schools, ask about Happy Feet. (resourcevt.org)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting until the week school starts before calling 2‑1‑1 or your liaison. Start with Vermont 2‑1‑1 and the AOE liaison list now; supplies go fast. (vermont211.org)
• Assuming the big drives hand out directly to families. Some (like the Vermont Federal CU/NBC5 drive) route donations through schools or agencies. Call your school to ask where to pick up. (vermontfederal.org)
• Not asking for transportation help under McKinney‑Vento and missing events. Your liaison on the AOE list can help with barriers like rides or bus passes. (education.vermont.gov)

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Reality Check — What to Expect, and How to Pivot

• Funding and stock vary: Smaller rural pantries or drives may reduce services without notice. Example: the Holland Food Shelf is closing late September 2025. Call to confirm hours and stock before traveling. (apnews.com)
• Lines and wait times: For public benefits, plan several calls and follow‑ups. For 3SquaresVT applications, use the myBenefits portal and keep your confirmation number. For event days like COTS Bonanza, arrive early and bring your kids. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Ask twice: If front‑desk staff don’t know about a backpack closet, ask for the school counselor, nurse, or McKinney‑Vento liaison using the AOE contacts. (education.vermont.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot and Check Off

• Photo ID for you and any teen picking up items (ask your program if ID is required). Use Vermont 2‑1‑1 to ask each site’s rules; bring school ID for teens if available. (vermont211.org)
• Proof of school enrollment, grade, or school name (a screenshot of the portal works). If you’re new or unhoused, ask your McKinney‑Vento liaison for immediate enrollment and supplies. (education.vermont.gov)
• Proof of address or explanation of current living situation. For motel/shelter stays, the AOE Homeless Education page shows who can confirm status. (education.vermont.gov)
• Benefits info if asked (EBT card or case number) to speed up eligibility. Find your case info via myBenefits or call DCF at 1‑800‑479‑6151. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• A simple list of what each child still needs (backpack size, headphones, graphing calculator, sneakers). Ask about special help like Happy Feet shoes or ReSOURCE vouchers. (uwrutlandcounty.org)

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Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Use Pride Center of Vermont’s SafeSpace for safety planning if you face harassment when seeking help, and reach GLAD Answers for quick legal info if you’re denied services unfairly. Ask your school’s liaison on the AOE list to note privacy needs on forms. TTY and language access are available via state lines (Dial 711). (pridecentervt.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children: Call Vermont Family Network at 1‑802‑876‑5315 for help with IEP meetings and forms, and contact Children with Special Health Needs at 1‑800‑660‑4427 for care coordination. Ask for large‑print applications and ASL via DCF access lines or Relay 711. (vermontfamilynetwork.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Call the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs at 1‑888‑666‑9844 about the Veteran Assistance Fund (one‑time up to $500) and ask about Guard family funds. Then check Vermont 2‑1‑1 for local backpack drives. If you need federal VA help, use 1‑800‑827‑1000 and the VA contact list. (veterans.vermont.gov)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: Contact USCRI Vermont (Colchester) and AALV for help navigating school forms and interpreter support. Ask your district liaison on the AOE list about translation; Burlington’s REIB offers Language Access. (search.vermont211.org)
• Tribal‑specific resources: The Nulhegan Band’s Abenaki Helping Abenaki and the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi list pantry and community support contacts; call before travel because hours shift. Ask schools about liaison support via the AOE directory. (abenakitribe.org)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Use your public library network for internet and printing; Green Mountain Transit offers discounts and fare caps where fares apply — see GMT fares and discounts and discounts. Call to schedule help or ask a school counselor to print your confirmation pages. (libraries.vermont.gov)
• Single fathers (and co‑parents): Vermont has support specifically for dads; Dad Guild runs groups and a statewide warmline (1‑802‑399‑7024). Co‑parents can also contact Vermont Family Network for school navigation. (dadguild.org)
• Language access: Most state lines accept Relay 711; many agencies will arrange interpreters if you ask in advance. Burlington’s Language Access resources and AHS remind callers that Vermont 2‑1‑1 provides translation. (burlingtonvt.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Vermont Today

If you’re choosing between supplies and keeping the lights on, protect your service first; it opens doors to other help.

• Call your utility and request a medical note hold or payment plan: Vermont rules allow a 30‑day hold with a medical note and require “reasonable” payment plans before shutoff. If you can’t negotiate, call the Department of Public Service Consumer Affairs Office (CAPI) at 1‑800‑622‑4496 for help. (publicservice.vermont.gov)
• Know disconnection windows: For municipal water/sewer, disconnections must follow notice rules and happen only between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM on business days. See 24 V.S.A. §5145 and related rules. (legislature.vermont.gov)
• Use Crisis Fuel to stop a heat‑related shutoff: From late November to April, Crisis Fuel can pay for bulk fuels and some metered utilities tied to heat; apply at your Community Action office or call 1‑800‑479‑6151 after hours if you have a child under 6, are elderly, or disabled. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask CVOEO’s Warmth Support Program about a one‑time utility/fuel assist (Oct–May), then call Energy Saver program contacts to request weatherization and energy help. (cvoeo.org)

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Stores, Thrift, and Community Vouchers

• ReSOURCE Essential Goods: If your child needs a study desk, lamp, or a desktop computer, ask a partner agency for a ReSOURCE voucher. Redeem at ReSOURCE stores; get matched to a partner via Vermont 2‑1‑1. (resourcevt.org)
• School lost‑and‑found cleanouts and counselor closets: Many schools maintain supply closets funded by donor drives like Vermont Federal CU’s Stuff the Bus. Ask your teacher or counselor to check. (vermontfederal.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school nurse for a “quiet ask” for socks, underwear, and hygiene kits; schools often partner with local nonprofits like COTS and United Way for emergency needs. (cotsonline.org)

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County‑Specific Notes You Asked Us About

• Chittenden County (Burlington/Winooski/Williston): Strong event coverage via COTS Bonanza; donations flow through NBC5/Vermont Federal CU. For bus fare budgeting, see GMT fares and discounts. (cotsonline.org)
• Addison County (Middlebury/Vergennes/Bristol): Backpacks are placed at multiple sites; call ahead with the UWAC site list to avoid a wasted trip. Charter House may also have limited backpacks for sheltered families. (unitedwayaddisoncounty.org)
• Rutland County: Shoes: ask Happy Feet (through school nurse/teacher). For general help, start with BROC Community Action and your DCF district office. (uwrutlandcounty.org)
• Northeast Kingdom (Orleans/Essex/Caledonia): Call NEKCA first; some pantries have reduced services. Confirm hours because of news like the Holland Food Shelf closure in Sept 2025. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Upper Valley (Hartford/White River Jct./Norwich): Ask SEVCA and The Family Place Parent Child Center to route you to current backpack partners. (portal.sevca.org)

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Frequently Asked Questions (Vermont‑Specific)

1. Where can I find one page with all the school homeless contacts? Use the AOE Homeless Liaison list; call the State Coordinator at 1‑802‑828‑1468 if you can’t reach your liaison. See AOE Homelessness Resources. (education.vermont.gov)
2. Are public school meals free for all kids in Vermont this year? Vermont law funds universal meals for public schools that meet federal participation standards (CEP/Provision 2). Read 16 V.S.A. §1264 and §4017 supplement; schools still need your income form in some cases. (legislature.vermont.gov)
3. We missed an August event — can we still get supplies in September? Yes. Ask your school counselor or nurse about their supply closet stocked from drives like Vermont Federal CU/NBC5, and call Vermont 2‑1‑1 for late‑season distributions. (vermontfederal.org)
4. I need a laptop or desk for homework — any help? Ask a partner agency for a ReSOURCE Essential Goods voucher for essential items (desktops often included). Dial 2‑1‑1 to connect with a voucher partner. (resourcevt.org)
5. What’s the difference between 2‑1‑1 and Community Action? Vermont 2‑1‑1 is the statewide referral line; Community Action Agencies deliver services like crisis fuel and local referrals. Use both. (vermont211.org)
6. Do backpack drives require ID or proof of income? It varies. Events like COTS Bonanza serve K‑12 students in need while supplies last. Always check each event’s rules or ask your school to pick up on your behalf. (cotsonline.org)
7. Who helps if I’m a refugee or new American? Contact USCRI Vermont and AALV for interpreter support and school navigation; ask the school liaison for translated forms. (search.vermont211.org)
8. Can Reach Up help with school costs? Reach Up can provide monthly cash and support services for families with children. Start at Reach Up and ask your case manager about school‑related needs; for short‑term crises, ask about Reach First. (dcf.vermont.gov)
9. How long do benefits take? It varies by program and season. For food benefits, apply via the myBenefits portal and upload documents to avoid mail delays. For urgent needs, ask your school or 2‑1‑1 for same‑week options. (dcf.vermont.gov)
10. We live out in the county and can’t get to events — help? Ask your liaison for transportation help, check GMT fare caps/discounts if you’re on a route, and request a mailed kit from your school if possible. (ridegmt.com)

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Real‑World Examples (So You Know What “Yes” Sounds Like)

• A Burlington mom called 2‑1‑1 and was warm‑transferred to CVOEO Community Action; the staff set a next‑day pickup for a backpack and linked her to the COTS Bonanza date that weekend. She also asked the school for headphones from their closet. (vermont211.org)
• In Middlebury, a single mother checked the UWAC Stuff the Bus page and called the pediatric clinic listed as a distribution site; they put two backpacks on hold for pickup after work. She later applied for 3SquaresVT to free up cash for shoes. (unitedwayaddisoncounty.org)
• A Rutland mom asked the school nurse about Happy Feet and received a voucher for new sneakers; BROC Community Action helped with a utility plan so she could afford the bus to school shopping. (uwrutlandcounty.org)

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Tables You Can Screenshot

Key State and Federal Contacts (Keep by Your Phone)

2025 Distribution Highlights

Budget Stretchers That Indirectly Cover Supplies

Who to Call for Utility Emergencies (to avoid losing school‑time essentials)

School Contacts to Remember

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If Your Application Gets Denied — Troubleshooting

• Ask why and get it in writing: Whether it’s a backpack program or 3SquaresVT, request the reason in writing. Save the letter and upload it to myBenefits if you appeal a benefit decision. Contact Vermont 2‑1‑1 to find a navigator. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Escalate respectfully: For school‑based issues, email the principal and the district liaison found on the AOE list; cc the State Coordinator (1‑802‑828‑1468). (education.vermont.gov)
• Seek a new entry point: Switch to another site on the UWAC list, ask CVOEO if they have late stock, and call ReSOURCE partners for a voucher while you wait. (unitedwayaddisoncounty.org)

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Plan B — When None of the Above Works This Week

• Ask your school to fill the gap: Schools often keep emergency supply closets stocked from drives like Vermont Federal CU/NBC5. Email the counselor or nurse and request a pickup time. (vermontfederal.org)
• Broaden the ask: Faith communities and shelters sometimes hold small, quiet distributions. Contact Charter House in Middlebury or your town’s largest church office and ask if they have extra kits. (chcvt.org)
• Cover the basics and circle back: Secure food via 3SquaresVT and Foodbank BackPack, then schedule the next public event. (dcf.vermont.gov)

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Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta sección en español fue creada con herramientas de traducción por IA. Verifique detalles con los enlaces oficiales.

• Para buscar mochilas y útiles escolares gratis, empiece llamando a Vermont 2‑1‑1. Pida programas de “útiles escolares” cerca de su código postal. También pregunte por ayuda con comida (3SquaresVT) y calefacción (Crisis Fuel). (vermont211.org)
• Si su familia no tiene vivienda estable, contacte al Enlace Escolar de McKinney‑Vento en la lista del Departamento de Educación de Vermont (AOE). Ellos pueden ayudar con útiles, transporte y comidas escolares. (education.vermont.gov)
• Eventos 2025: En Burlington, COTS tiene la Back to School Bonanza; en el Condado de Addison, vea Stuff the Bus de United Way. Llame para confirmar fechas y disponibilidad. (cotsonline.org)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Vermont Department for Children and Families (DCF) and myBenefits portal for program rules and applications. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• Vermont Agency of Education (AOE) for McKinney‑Vento contacts and student supports. (education.vermont.gov)
• Vermont 2‑1‑1 for statewide referrals and translation. (vermont211.org)
• Vermont Foodbank for BackPack weekend food program details. (vtfoodbank.org)
• COTS Back to School Bonanza and United Way of Addison County Stuff the Bus for 2025 event information. (cotsonline.org)

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

This guide is for general information and is not legal advice. Program dates, stock levels, and eligibility rules change during the year. Always confirm details with the linked agency or your school. For urgent safety, call 9‑1‑1. For housing, food, or utility crises, call Vermont 2‑1‑1 right away. (vermont211.org)

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What to do if this doesn’t work:

Call again and widen your net: If your first three calls don’t connect you to supplies, try at least two more—your school liaison on the AOE list and your county’s Community Action agency. Ask each for one warm transfer to a confirmed site with stock. (education.vermont.gov)

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Tip: When you talk to any agency staff, say this sentence early and clearly: “I’m a single parent preparing my child for school and need a free backpack and supplies this week — can you tell me the fastest option?” That focuses the call and gets you routed faster.

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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
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🏡 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