Vermont Mental Health Resources for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff, Do‑This‑Next Guide

Last updated: September 2025

Note on how this guide beats the usual search results: Most pages in the top results list phone numbers or give generic advice. What’s usually missing are: current income limits and dollar amounts, county-by-county crisis lines, exact steps, realistic timelines, transportation and childcare help to actually get to appointments, and backup plans when Plan A stalls. You’ll find all of that here—pulled only from official State of Vermont, federal, hospitals, and established nonprofits.

Sources are linked throughout. If you spot anything out of date, email info@asinglemother.org.

Quick Help (for when you need options right now)

• Call or text 988 for the 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Free, confidential. If you’re worried about yourself or someone else, this is the fastest way to talk to a trained counselor. See how 988 works in Vermont. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov)
• Vermont peer “warm line” (when you need to talk but it’s not an immediate crisis): (833) 888‑2557 (or text). 24/7 statewide. Staffed by trained peers. (pathwaysvermont.org)
• Perinatal/maternal mental health support (pregnancy through 12 months postpartum): 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262), 24/7. Call or text. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov, healthvermont.gov)
• Chittenden County mobile crisis (First Call): (802) 488‑7777 (24/7). (howardcenter.org)
• VT Helplink for alcohol or drug concerns (co‑occurring mental health is common): (802) 565‑LINK (5465) or (833) 565‑LINK, now 24/7 phone, text “LINK,” and chat. (healthvermont.gov)
• Domestic or sexual violence help (confidential statewide hotlines): Domestic Violence 1‑800‑228‑7395; Sexual Violence 1‑800‑489‑7273. Advocates can help with safety planning, shelter, legal options. (vtnetwork.org, women.vermont.gov)
• VT 2‑1‑1 for any resource navigation (housing, food, mental health, transportation): Dial 211. (healthvermont.gov)

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Quick Reference: Crisis & Support Numbers (Save or screenshot)

Citations: 988, Crisis Text Line (VDH); Pathways; Maternal Hotline; VT Helplink; VT Network. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov, healthvermont.gov, pathwaysvermont.org, vtnetwork.org)

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Why this matters in Vermont (what the data shows)

• Vermont’s Department of Mental Health reports 123 suicide deaths in 2023 (rate: 19.0 per 100,000), above national averages. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov)
• New research shows 988 is getting used: from July 2022–Dec 2024, the Lifeline received over 16.3 million contacts nationally; Vermont ranks among the higher‑use states per population. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, medicalxpress.com)
• Perinatal mental health (pregnancy through one year after birth): Vermont data show about 1 in 4 (≈25%) pregnant/postpartum Vermonters experience mood or anxiety disorders. Untreated, these conditions were estimated to cost Vermont $48 million per annual birth cohort. (healthvermont.gov, mathematica.org)

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Start Here: A simple roadmap for single moms

• If you are in emotional danger or afraid you might hurt yourself: call 988 now. Then ask for a local referral in your county.
• If you’re pregnant or within 12 months postpartum and struggling: call 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA and/or ask Help Me Grow to connect you to a Vermont clinician trained in perinatal mental health—dial 211, option 6, or text HMGVT to 898211 (Mon–Fri, 8–5). (healthvermont.gov)
• If you want local, in‑person care fast: call your county’s community mental health center (Designated Agency) crisis line (see table below). They can do phone triage and connect you to mobile crisis, urgent care, or therapy. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov)
• If money/insurance is the barrier: apply for Vermont Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur (details/tables below). Many single moms qualify—coverage includes mental health, telehealth, and non‑emergency rides. (dvha.vermont.gov)
• If child care or transportation is the barrier: see the transportation and child care section for ride scheduling rules and expanded child care help up to 575% FPL. (dvha.vermont.gov, dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: call 211 and ask for live help finding the closest option today, or use 988 to ask a counselor to connect you to a local crisis center that can follow up. (healthvermont.gov, mentalhealth.vermont.gov)

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County-by-County: Your local mental health crisis lines

These 24/7 lines dispatch mobile crisis teams, do safety planning, and schedule urgent follow‑ups.

Sources: Vermont DMH, DAIL crisis lists, and agency pages. Numbers verified 2024–2025. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov, ddsd.vermont.gov, howardcenter.org, claramartin.org, ncssinc.org, lamoille.org, hcrs.org, rmhsccn.org, ucsvt.org, wcmhs.org)

Tips

• If a county line rings busy, try again or call 988 and ask to be routed to your nearest VT center. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov)
• Chittenden County adults can also walk into Mental Health Urgent Care at 1 South Prospect St, Burlington, weekdays. (802) 488‑6482. Newport has “Front Porch” urgent care: (802) 624‑4016. (disabilityrightsvt.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: call the Pathways Support Line at (833) 888‑2557 for immediate peer support, or use 988 to request a callback from a local team. (pathwaysvermont.org, mentalhealth.vermont.gov)

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Paying for Care: Medicaid, Dr. Dynasaur, and postpartum coverage

Good news: Medicaid covers therapy, psychiatry, inpatient, and substance use care. Vermont also covers non‑emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to appointments if you qualify (see next section).

• Medicaid for adults (expansion): income up to 138% FPL.
• Dr. Dynasaur for pregnant people: up to 213% FPL; for children under 19: up to 317% FPL. Dr. Dynasaur includes 12 months of free postpartum coverage after pregnancy ends. (vtlawhelp.org, info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
• Copays: People who are pregnant or in the 12‑month postpartum period don’t pay copays. Mental health and SUD services are covered benefits. (dvha.vermont.gov)
• Where to apply: Vermont Health Connect online or by phone (855) 899‑9600. VT Health Connect must decide regular (non‑disability) Medicaid eligibility within 30 days. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)

2025 monthly income limits (Medicaid & Dr. Dynasaur)

Based on Vermont’s 2025 Federal Poverty Level (FPL) thresholds for each category.

Source (monthly limits): Vermont Law Help summary of 2025 FPL thresholds for Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur. (vtlawhelp.org)

Application steps (fastest order)

• Create a VT Health Connect account and start your application. Have SSNs (if available), proof of Vermont residency, and income info ready (pay stubs, benefit letters). Apply by phone at (855) 899‑9600 if online is tough. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
• If pregnant, apply for Dr. Dynasaur as soon as you know you’re pregnant (your unborn baby counts in household size). Postpartum coverage lasts 12 months after pregnancy ends. (vtlawhelp.org, info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
• If you don’t hear back within 30 days, call (855) 899‑9600 to check status or request an appeal/fair hearing for delays. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)

Reality check

• Processing can take the full 30 days. If you need care sooner, ask your clinic about sliding‑fee or self‑pay rates while your Medicaid is pending. Many clinics backdate claims once coverage starts.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask a local Assister to submit/track your application with you. Use the Assister directory on Vermont Health Connect. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)

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Getting There and Finding Child Care so you can keep appointments

Transportation (Medicaid NEMT)

• If you have Medicaid and no other ride, Vermont provides non‑emergency medical transportation statewide through the Vermont Public Transportation Association (VPTA).
• Schedule rides with at least 2 business days’ notice; same‑day may be limited. Call (833) 387‑7200 to be routed to your local broker. Bring your Medicaid ID and appointment details. (vpta.net, dvha.vermont.gov)
• Out‑of‑area visits and lodging/meals can be covered with prior authorization for medically necessary trips. Keep receipts for reimbursement. (vpta.net)

Reality check

• You must prove no other transportation is available in your household; you may be asked for documentation (for example, if the car doesn’t run). (vtlawhelp.org)

Child care help (so you can attend therapy or groups)

• Vermont’s Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) now serves families up to 575% FPL; family shares range roughly $0–$425/week depending on income and size. Apply online or through your local Community Child Care Support Agency. (dcf.vermont.gov)
• DCF updates income guidelines annually; March 2025 update lowered some family shares using new FPL. (dcf.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your Designated Agency about in‑home or telehealth options to reduce missed sessions; most agencies offer virtual visits. For infants, some programs have parent‑baby groups you can attend together—ask Help Me Grow (211, option 6). (healthvermont.gov)

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Perinatal & Maternal Mental Health: Fastest routes to specialized care

Action first: Use Help Me Grow to get matched to Vermont clinicians trained in perinatal mood & anxiety disorders (PMADs). Dial 211, option 6, or text HMGVT to 898211 (Mon–Fri, 8–5). (healthvermont.gov)

What’s available, statewide

• National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262), 24/7, text or call. (healthvermont.gov)
• Postpartum Support International (PSI‑VT): Support groups, local coordinators, and a helpline/text: call 1‑800‑944‑4773 (press #2 for English), text “Help” to 800‑944‑4773 (EN) or 971‑203‑7773 (ES). (psichapters.com)
• UVM Medical Center Perinatal Psychiatry Consultation for medical providers: (802) 847‑4758 (ask your OB/midwife or PCP to call for guidance). (mentalhealth.vermont.gov)
• Vermont Department of Health “Support Delivered” perinatal hub with education and local links. (healthvermont.gov)

Table: Perinatal supports at a glance

Reality check

• Waitlists exist in some counties. Ask about “same‑day access,” short‑term bridge therapy, and whether your DA offers perinatal‑specific groups. VDH notes VT is expanding screening and treatment through STAMPP. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Use 988 if your symptoms feel unsafe. For non‑crisis times, the Pathways Support Line (833‑888‑2557) can help you get through rough days while you wait. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov, pathwaysvermont.org)

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Substance Use + Mental Health (co‑occurring)

• VT Helplink now operates 24/7 by phone, text “LINK,” and chat to match you with treatment, recovery centers, naloxone, and more. Call (802) 565‑5465 or (833) 565‑5465. (healthvermont.gov)
• Medicaid covers SUD treatment, including medication‑assisted treatment. Rides to covered appointments are available through NEMT (see above). (dvha.vermont.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Dial 988 if you’re in crisis, or text VT to 741741 to talk to a counselor. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov, healthvermont.gov)

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Insurance and sliding‑fee options if you don’t qualify for Medicaid

• Vermont Health Connect can help you compare plans and see if you qualify for premium help and cost‑sharing reductions. Call (855) 899‑9600. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
• Community mental health centers and many federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) offer sliding‑fee discounts based on income. Fees vary by clinic; ask what your visit would cost at your income level. If they can’t quote a number, ask for a written estimate.

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask the hospital/clinic about patient financial assistance and payment plans; every hospital has a policy, but dollar limits differ by facility.

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Domestic & Sexual Violence + Mental Health

Abuse is a mental health issue, too. If safety is a concern:

• Call the statewide Domestic Violence Hotline 1‑800‑228‑7395 or Sexual Violence Hotline 1‑800‑489‑7273 (24/7). Advocates can help with safety planning, shelter, and court. (vtnetwork.org, women.vermont.gov)
• Burlington/Chittenden: HOPE Works sexual violence hotline (802) 863‑1236 (24/7). (burlingtonvt.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If it’s urgent, call 911. If you need emotional support but aren’t in immediate danger, call Pathways (833‑888‑2557) or 988 to process options. (pathwaysvermont.org, mentalhealth.vermont.gov)

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Diverse Communities: Statewide options that meet specific needs

• LGBTQ+ parents: Pride Center of Vermont SafeSpace program hotline (866) 869‑7341 or local (802) 863‑0003. (vtnetwork.org)
• Parents with disabilities or of children with disabilities: Disability Rights Vermont (civil rights, access issues). Vermont Family Network Helpline (802) 876‑5315 for peer navigation and respite info. (disabilityrightsvt.org, vermontfamilynetwork.org)
• Veteran single mothers: VA White River Junction Women Veterans care coordinator (mental health, maternity, postpartum support). Main line (802) 295‑9363; clinic mental health ext 5760; women’s coordinator via VA website. Crisis: call 988, press 1 for Veterans. (va.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee moms: State Refugee Office (AHS) and USCRI Vermont (resettlement services). USCRI VT main (802) 655‑1963. Language assistance is available through state agencies and hospitals (no‑cost interpreters). (humanservices.vermont.gov, search.vermont211.org, dvha.vermont.gov, uvmhealth.org)
• Abenaki/Native families: Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs (community connections/resources) (802) 261‑0680. For crisis support, use 988; for DV/SA support in Native communities, advocates can coordinate culturally specific help. (vcnaa.vermont.gov)
• Rural access: Many DAs offer mobile crisis and telehealth; VPTA NEMT covers rides with 2 business days notice for Medicaid members. (hcrs.org, dvha.vermont.gov)
• Language access: VT Health Connect language help (855) 899‑9600 (free interpreters). DMH provides language hotlines to reach staff via interpreters; hospitals offer interpreters 24/7. (dvha.vermont.gov, mentalhealth.vermont.gov, uvmhealth.org)

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Realistic timelines (what to expect)

• Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur: decision in up to 30 days (non‑disability). If it’s longer, call and request a fair hearing or continuing benefits. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
• VT Helplink: immediate contact 24/7; treatment openings vary by service level. (healthvermont.gov)
• Designated Agencies: same‑day crisis help 24/7; outpatient therapy may have a waitlist—ask for “same‑day access” or short‑term bridge sessions (for example, Clara Martin lists same‑day access hours). (claramartin.org)

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Local Organizations & Community Supports (VT‑based)

• NAMI Vermont: free peer and family support groups, education classes; office (802) 876‑7949. (nami.org)
• Vermont Family Network (families of children with special health needs, behavior, disability): Helpline (802) 876‑5315. (vermontfamilynetwork.org)
• Lund (Chittenden Co. & statewide): outpatient mental health/substance use counseling, parenting supports. (802) 864‑7467. (lundvt.org)
• Good Beginnings of Central Vermont: postpartum supports and perinatal mental health referrals. (goodbeginningscentralvt.org)

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Region‑by‑Region Highlights (examples you can use today)

• Burlington/Chittenden County: Howard Center First Call (802) 488‑7777; Mental Health Urgent Care (walk‑in weekdays). Pathways Support Line 24/7 (833) 888‑2557. (howardcenter.org, disabilityrightsvt.org, pathwaysvermont.org)
• Rutland County: Crisis line (802) 775‑1000; text (802) 214‑2553. (rmhsccn.org)
• Northeast Kingdom (Caledonia/Essex/Orleans): NKHS offices St. Johnsbury (802) 748‑3181; Newport (802) 334‑6744; after‑hours crisis via office numbers. (nkhs.org)
• Washington County: WCMHS (802) 229‑0591 (24/7). (wcmhs.org)
• Bennington County: UCS (802) 442‑5491 (24/7 emergency services). (ucsvt.org)
• Windham/Windsor: HCRS (800) 622‑4235 (24/7). (hcrs.org)

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Insurance, benefits, and rides—everything in one table

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Application Checklist (print or save)

• Photo ID and proof of Vermont residency (lease, utility bill).
• Proof of income (recent pay stubs, unemployment/benefit letters, child support info).
• Pregnancy verification (for Dr. Dynasaur) if available.
• Medicaid ID (if already enrolled) for ride scheduling.
• Your schedule and the best times you can attend appointments—ask for telehealth if needed.
• Emergency contacts and a childcare backup plan (neighbor, family, or a CCFAP‑approved provider).

What to do if something’s missing: Apply anyway and upload later; VT Health Connect often lets you submit documents after you start the application. Call (855) 899‑9600 for help. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)

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Common mistakes to avoid (and how to fix them)

• Waiting for things to “get really bad” before calling. Use 988 or your county crisis line early—earlier help often means fewer steps later. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov)
• Skipping transportation planning. If you have Medicaid, request NEMT at least 2 business days ahead. Keep your phone on for pickup updates. (dvha.vermont.gov)
• Not asking about same‑day options. Many agencies offer same‑day access or urgent care; ask specifically. (claramartin.org)
• Missing postpartum coverage. Dr. Dynasaur covers 12 months after pregnancy ends—even after miscarriage or other loss. Use it. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)
• Not appealing delays. If your Medicaid decision takes longer than 30 days, call and request a fair hearing or continuing benefits. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet (save/share)

• Crisis now: 988
• Chittenden mobile crisis: (802) 488‑7777
• Warm line: (833) 888‑2557
• Maternal mental health: 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (1‑833‑852‑6262)
• VT Helplink (alcohol/drugs): (802) 565‑5465 / (833) 565‑5465
• Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur app help: (855) 899‑9600
• NEMT rides: (833) 387‑7200 (book 2 business days ahead)
• Domestic violence: 1‑800‑228‑7395
• Sexual violence: 1‑800‑489‑7273

Citations: 988; Howard Center; Pathways; Maternal Hotline; VT Helplink; VT Health Connect; VPTA; VT Network. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov, howardcenter.org, pathwaysvermont.org, healthvermont.gov, info.healthconnect.vermont.gov, dvha.vermont.gov, vtnetwork.org)

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Tables you can use

A) Designated Agencies: who serves your county (and crisis numbers)

Verified via VT DMH and agency pages. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov)

B) Medicaid & Dr. Dynasaur income limits (2025, monthly)

Source: VTLawHelp 2025 chart (Medicaid/Dr. Dynasaur). (vtlawhelp.org)

C) Perinatal mental health options

Sources: VDH; DMH; PSI‑VT; UVM Health. (healthvermont.gov, mentalhealth.vermont.gov, psichapters.com)

D) Getting to care: rides and childcare

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FAQs (Vermont‑specific)

1. Does Vermont cover mental health the same as physical health?
   Yes. Vermont Medicaid covers mental health and substance use services; people who are pregnant or in the 12‑month postpartum period have no copays for covered services. (dvha.vermont.gov)
2. How long will Medicaid take?
   Up to 30 days for most applications; 90 days if a disability determination is involved. You can request a fair hearing for delays. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov, regulations.justia.com)
3. Can I get an urgent appointment in person?
   Yes—use your county crisis line for 24/7 help; some regions have mental health urgent care (Burlington, Newport). (disabilityrightsvt.org)
4. What if I can’t afford therapy while I’m waiting for Medicaid?
   Ask the clinic about sliding‑fee rates and whether they can bill retroactively once your coverage starts. Many agencies offer short‑term bridge sessions.
5. Who helps with postpartum depression at 2 a.m.?
   The Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA (24/7) and 988 (24/7). (healthvermont.gov)
6. I live in a rural town. Can someone come to me?
   Mobile crisis teams operate statewide via your DA. If you have Medicaid, request NEMT rides for clinic visits with 2 business days notice. (mentalhealth.vermont.gov, dvha.vermont.gov)
7. I’m a veteran and a mom. Where can I go?
   VA White River Junction has women‑specific care; call (802) 295‑9363 (mental health ext 5760). In crisis, call 988 then press 1. (va.gov)
8. Can I bring my baby to therapy?
   Ask—many perinatal providers allow parent‑infant visits or have groups. Help Me Grow (211, opt 6) can connect you. (healthvermont.gov)
9. I don’t speak English well. Will I get an interpreter?
   Yes. State agencies and hospitals provide free language assistance. VT Health Connect language help line: (855) 899‑9600. DMH also posts language lines to reach their staff. (dvha.vermont.gov, mentalhealth.vermont.gov)
10. Are there real numbers on perinatal mental health in Vermont?
    Yes—about 25% of VT birthing parents report PMAD symptoms; untreated PMADs cost Vermont roughly $48 million per annual birth cohort. (healthvermont.gov, mathematica.org)

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Real‑world examples from Vermont

• “I can’t drive to therapy with two kids.” Solution: Applied for Dr. Dynasaur for the kids and Medicaid for herself, then booked NEMT rides 2 business days ahead and asked the DA for telehealth on weeks transportation fell through. (dvha.vermont.gov)
• “Postpartum anxiety hit at night.” Solution: Used 1‑833‑TLC‑MAMA at 1 a.m. the first night, then Help Me Grow (211, option 6) the next day to get a perinatal therapist in her county. (healthvermont.gov)
• “Stuck on a waitlist.” Solution: Called the DA’s crisis line to request short‑term bridge sessions and joined a PSI‑VT virtual group while waiting. (psichapters.com)

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What to do if nothing is moving

• Call 988 and ask the counselor to transfer or refer you to your nearest Vermont crisis center for active follow‑up.
• Contact Vermont Care Partners (network of community mental health agencies) to find another agency or program in your region. (vermontcarepartners.org)
• If an application stalls past 30 days, call VT Health Connect (855) 899‑9600 and ask about a fair hearing or “continuing benefits” during appeal. (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from the Vermont Department of Mental Health, Vermont Department of Health, Department of Vermont Health Access, Vermont Health Connect, DCF/Child Development Division, USDA/HRSA, VA, and established nonprofits (NAMI VT, Pathways VT, PSI).

We follow our Editorial Standards to use only official or well‑established sources, verify links, and update quickly when policies change. See our Editorial Policy for methodology and update commitments. Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. (healthvermont.gov)

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Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance in Vermont as of September 2025. Program rules, income limits, phone numbers, and clinic hours change. Always verify details with the relevant agency before you apply or go to an appointment. For emergencies, call 911 or 988.

Security & privacy: We link only to official state/federal websites and well‑established nonprofits. We don’t collect personal information through this guide. If you email us updates, don’t include sensitive health details.

If you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org. We investigate and correct verified issues within 48 hours. (healthvermont.gov)

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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
• 🚗 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
• 🎒 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