Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Vermont (2025)

Last updated: September 2025 — check updates on Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans), Department for Children and Families (DCF), and Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA) for any changes.

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If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call: Schedule Medicaid rides 48 hours ahead through the statewide broker at Vermont Public Transportation Association (VPTA) NEMT line 1-833-387-7200 or DVHA Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation if you or your kids have covered appointments within two days. VTLawHelp’s NEMT guide explains appeals if denied.
• Text/Call: Use statewide referral help now: call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑866‑652‑4636 for Vermont 2‑1‑1 ride options, gas card referrals, and local volunteer driver programs; also try Green Mountain United Way and Agency of Human Services Help & Resources to find same‑week help.
• Tell your DCF worker: If you are in Reach Up or just closed out, ask for transportation support today; Reach First and Reach Ahead Pilot can cover car repairs, rides to work, and bus passes if approved and available.

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Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

• Medicaid rides (statewide broker): VPTA NEMT 1-833-387-7200; forms live at VPTA Forms; DVHA Member Services 1-800-250-8427 via DVHA NEMT.
• DCF Benefits Service Center: DCF Benefits 1-800-479-6151 for Reach Up/Reach First/Reach Ahead help; district office finder at DCF ESD Contacts.
• Good News Garage (rides/cars via DCF): Ready To Go and Wheels to Work 1-877-448-3288 (877‑GIVE‑AUTO) and Burlington office 1-802-864-3667 at GNG Contact.
• Transit by region (hotlines): Green Mountain Transit (GMT) 1-802-540-2468; Tri‑Valley Transit (TVT) Addison 1-802-388-2287 / Orange & N. Windsor 1-802-728-3773; Rural Community Transportation (RCT) 1-802-748-8170/TTY 711.
• Paratransit & ADA rides (Chittenden): SSTA – Special Services Transportation Agency 1-802-878-1527; ADA application info via GMT ADA/Paratransit; statewide O&D rides overview at VTrans Older Adults & Persons with Disabilities.

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Who This Guide Is For and How to Use It

If you’re a single mom trying to keep your job, get to class, reach your kids’ checkups, or handle court dates, this is a no‑fluff, step‑by‑step hub. Use the emergency steps above for today, then work this page top‑to‑bottom to secure longer‑term options. Keep your phone ready to call VPTA NEMT, bookmark Vermont 2‑1‑1, and plug in your local transit agency like GMT for daily trips.

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Quick Comparison: What’s Out There Right Now

According to DVHA, you must call at least two business days in advance for medical rides and obtain prior authorization for trips over 60–100 miles depending on the form; VPTA notes DMV checks can take 24–48 hours before rides start. GMT fares resumed in Chittenden County with daily/monthly caps, while many rural routes remain fare‑free. Always confirm current status.

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How to Get a Ride to Health Care This Week

Start here if you need a ride to a prenatal visit, WIC referral, therapy, dental, or your child’s checkup.

Step 1 — Call the broker: Use the statewide number for VPTA NEMT (1‑833‑387‑7200) or your regional agency (e.g., Tri‑Valley Transit, GMCN in Bennington, RCT). Have your Medicaid ID, doctor’s name, and appointment time ready.

Step 2 — Know the rules: DVHA and regional brokers require booking at least 2 business days ahead; for long‑distance (generally >60–100 miles), your provider must submit a referral; “vehicle exception” and “hardship mileage” forms can help when a car in your household isn’t available. Get forms on VPTA Forms and read VTLawHelp’s NEMT guide before you call.

Step 3 — Confirm and show up: After the DMV check (24–48 hours) clears, you’ll get ride details; cancel early if plans change to avoid “no‑show” flags. Some agencies (e.g., GMCN and TVT ) require confirmations after repeated no‑shows. Keep receipts if you’re approved for reimbursement lodging/parking.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinician to fax the referral same‑day, request a “medical exemption from public transit,” or a “vehicle exception.” If denied, appeal within 90 days through DVHA Member Services 1‑800‑250‑8427 and use VTLawHelp’s appeal steps; also call Vermont 2‑1‑1 to locate volunteer drivers or gas cards offered by local agencies.

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Need Work or Child‑Care Rides? Your Fastest Paths

Ask DCF for support services right away: If you’re in Reach Up, Reach First, or rolled off into Reach Ahead Pilot (through June 30, 2025), your case manager can approve bus passes, mileage help, car repairs, and short‑term ride coverage to keep a job or attend training. Call DCF Benefits at 1‑800‑479‑6151 and ask about transportation supports and referrals.

Ready To Go (rides to work/child care): Good News Garage — Ready To Go operates statewide minivans for work, school, and child‑care trips, coordinated with DCF. If you’re in Reach Up, ask your case manager to refer you. Employers can also contract with Ready To Go for workers. For questions, contact Good News Garage or check Vermont 2‑1‑1’s listing.

Wheels to Work (refurbished donated cars): If you’re in Reach Up and actively working, ask about Wheels to Work car awards. GNG partners with DCF to place safe vehicles with working families; timing depends on donations and your case manager’s referral. You can help your odds by ensuring your driver’s license status is clear with Vermont DMV Reinstatement.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you don’t qualify for Reach Up, apply for ICAN (3SquaresVT E&T) which can help with transportation for training/job search. Also check CarShare Vermont’s MobilityShare for low‑cost, insured car access, and ask local transit about on‑demand microtransit like MyRide by GMT or SEVT Windsor microtransit.

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Public Transit — What’s Running and Where

Chittenden County (Burlington area): Green Mountain Transit (GMT) resumed fares in Chittenden County with Ride Ready daily/monthly caps; some routes adjusted due to budget. Use the Ride Ready info via CATMA, download MyRide by GMT for Montpelier on‑demand, and track buses with the Transit app.

Addison, Orange & Northern Windsor: Tri‑Valley Transit (TVT) runs fare‑free fixed routes and commuters like the Tri‑Town Shuttle and River Route (Upper Valley connections). For door‑to‑door help and NEMT, use Dial‑A‑Ride; call Addison 1‑802‑388‑2287 or Orange/N. Windsor 1‑802‑728‑3773.

Northeast Kingdom & Lamoille: Rural Community Transportation (RCT) operates fare‑free routes, microtransit (RCT Rides), and demand‑response rides; call 1‑802‑748‑8170 or text “RCTAlerts” to 64800 for updates. RCT also supports recovery/job access pilots and coordinates Medicaid rides.

Rutland County: Marble Valley Regional Transit District — The Bus shows “FARE FREE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE” across many services; check current hours and paratransit fees online. Routes operate throughout Rutland City and intercity connections.

Bennington County: Green Mountain Community Network (GMCN) — Green Mountain Express offers deviated fixed routes (Bennington–Manchester/Wilmington/Pownal) and NEMT; Medicaid line 1‑877‑530‑6116. Local routes have been fare‑free; confirm current schedule before riding.

Windham & Southern Windsor: SEVT — The MOOver runs mostly fare‑free buses and microtransit (e.g., Windsor on‑demand). Some cuts took effect in 2025 due to funding, so verify times before you go.

Upper Valley (WRJ/Lebanon/Hanover): Advance Transit provides fare‑free cross‑border buses (VT/NH) including Orange and Yellow routes connecting White River Junction, DHMC, and Hanover. Call 1‑802‑295‑1824 or plan trips online.

What to do if this doesn’t work: For late‐night or off‑route trips, ask your local agency about deviated stops or microtransit windows, and keep Vermont 2‑1‑1 and CATMA’s Guaranteed Ride Home as backups if your employer is signed up.

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ADA Paratransit, Disability & Vision‑Specific Transportation

If you or your child cannot use fixed‑route buses due to a disability, apply for paratransit and specialized options.

Chittenden County paratransit: Apply via GMT ADA/Paratransit (evaluation within ~21 days) then schedule rides with SSTA at 1‑802‑878‑1527 (book 24–48 hours ahead; door‑to‑door service). For statewide O&D rides, see VTrans O&D Program.

Blind/low‑vision services: Division for the Blind & Visually Impaired (DBVI) can fund transportation tied to your job plan and provide travel training; see the DBVI transportation resource page and VABVI volunteer driver network for statewide support.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a written ADA eligibility decision and appeal if denied; request “origin‑to‑destination” assistance if needed. For vision‑specific navigation help, connect with DBVI and VABVI to pair training with ride options.

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School Transportation When You’re Doubled‑Up or Homeless

Under McKinney‑Vento, schools must provide transportation to the school of origin if you’re staying in shelters, hotels, cars, or doubling up.

Call the liaison now: Find your district liaison from the Vermont Agency of Education’s EHCY page or ask the front office to connect you. State coordinator: 1‑802‑828‑1468; email listed on the AOE page. WNESU and Kingdom East SD post local contacts as examples.

Rights to know: You can enroll immediately without documents and request transportation; eligibility lasts through the school year once identified. AOE has memos and resources on immediate enrollment and program roles.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for the written dispute process and keep the student enrolled while it’s resolved. Call Vermont 2‑1‑1 for community rides while the school sets up routing.

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Clean Transportation Incentives and E‑Bikes — 2025 Status

State programs (as of September 2025): Funding for the statewide New PEV, MileageSmart, and Replace Your Ride programs is fully expended and closed; the e‑Bike Incentive waitlist ended May 30, 2025 with program closure June 30, 2025; “Electrify Your Fleet” closed August 31, 2025. Keep watching VTrans incentives page for legislative updates. The underlying Replace Your Ride statute authorizes up to $5,000 based on income when funded.

Local electric utility rebates: Burlington residents can still stack local benefits like Burlington Electric Department e‑bike rebates ($600standard;upto$850 income‑qualified, valid through current program year), plus other EV offers at BED Rebates. For non‑Burlington utilities, call customer service to ask about any 2025 micromobility or EV incentives.

No‑cost e‑bike trials: Try an e‑bike for errands or school drop‑off through Local Motion’s lending library (Chittenden County residency required). Even if state rebates are closed, testing an e‑bike may reduce car trips.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If incentives are closed, look at low‑cost access: CarShare VT MobilityShare, transit‑plus‑microtransit options like MyRide by GMT, and employer commuter programs via CATMA with Guaranteed Ride Home.

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DMV, Suspensions, and Getting Legal to Drive

If your license is suspended, you can’t be placed into some programs or drive to work legally.

Check and pay reinstatement: Use Vermont DMV’s Reinstatement Service (fee shows as $98 online) or see Where to send your reinstatement fee; read Suspension info and note Vermont does not offer a “hardship/work license.”

Avoid new fines: Make sure your car is registered and insured; check current registration fees and, if needed, ask your Reach Up case manager about help with fees/repairs as part of a work plan. Good News Garage may also guide you if you’re seeking a Wheels to Work placement.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If reinstatement is out of reach, focus on ride options (public transit, paratransit, Ready To Go ) while you set up a payment plan with the courts and DMV. Check with Vermont 2‑1‑1 for legal clinics.

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Resources by Region — Contacts You’ll Actually Use

Confirm fares and hours before riding; several agencies implemented service changes in 2024–2025 due to funding.

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Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups That Often Help with Rides

Community Action Agencies: Reach out for gas cards, bus passes, or volunteer driver referrals when funding allows: Capstone Community Action (Central VT); BROC Community Action (Rutland/Bennington); CVOEO (Northwest); SEVCA (Southeast). When in doubt, call Vermont 2‑1‑1 to locate the right office.

Veterans: For VA medical trips, call White River Junction VA Medical Center 1‑802‑295‑9363; ask about DAV Vans and shuttle options. Many rides require booking 48 hours ahead.

Blind/low‑vision community: VABVI volunteer drivers can assist statewide; DBVI covers transportation related to job goals; local transit partners with these programs.

Faith‑based and town funds: Ask your town clerk about “emergency assistance” funds, and your local church’s benevolence fund for a one‑time gas card or repair referral; use Vermont 2‑1‑1 to find contacts quickly. Green Mountain United Way and United Ways of Vermont may have regional referrals.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If funds are out, ask about volunteer driver networks through RCT and GMCN, and look for microtransit windows like SEVT Windsor and MyRide by GMT.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the 48‑hour NEMT window: Book at least two business days ahead (and earlier for long trips). Use VPTA NEMT to schedule and submit forms from VPTA Forms.
• Skipping the “vehicle exception”: If there’s a car in your household but you can’t use it (unregistered, uninsured, used for work), file the Vehicle Exception to stay eligible for rides; agencies like GMCN explain the process.
• Assuming all buses are free: GMT brought back fares in Chittenden/Link routes with Ride Ready caps; rural providers like MVRTD and TVT are still fare‑free — always check your provider.
• Not asking DCF for repairs: If a modest repair keeps your job, ask your Reach Up case manager about support services or Reach Ahead if you recently closed.
• Letting a license stay suspended: Before car placements or jobs, use DMV Reinstatement or call 1‑802‑828‑2000; Vermont doesn’t offer a hardship license.

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Reality Check — What to Expect in 2025

• Funding shifts: State clean‑transport incentives (PEV, MileageSmart, Replace Your Ride, e‑bikes) are closed for now; utility rebates continue locally (e.g., BED e‑bikes). Expect waitlists to form fast if programs reopen.
• Transit service changes: GMT implemented service cuts and fare changes; SEVT ended some services and reduced others. Build backup plans using CATMA’s Guaranteed Ride Home and volunteer drivers via RCT.
• NEMT paperwork: Vehicle exception approvals can take 3–5 business days at agencies like GMCN; long trips need prior authorization — start early.

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

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Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot

• Medicaid number: Have your ID and birthdates; save VPTA NEMT and DVHA NEMT.
• Doctor details: Name, address, appointment time; if >60–100 miles, get physician referral form signed.
• Vehicle exception: If a car exists but isn’t usable, complete Vehicle Exception (add employment verification if needed).
• DCF paperwork: If in Reach Up, ask about transportation support, Ready To Go referral, or repair coverage; keep DCF Benefits on speed dial.
• Transit apps/passes: Install Transit app, MyRide by GMT, or enroll in CarShare VT MobilityShare if in service area.
• License/insurance: If suspended, pay via DMV Reinstatement; verify registration fees.

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Troubleshooting: If Your NEMT or DCF Transportation Request Gets Denied

• Get the denial in writing: Ask your broker or DCF worker for the reason code. If it’s a “vehicle available” issue, submit the Vehicle Exception and “employment exception” form. For long trips, ask your provider to fax the referral.
• Appeal on time: For Medicaid transport, call DVHA Member Services at 1‑800‑250‑8427 within 90 days; VTLawHelp walks you through steps. For DCF programs, request a fair hearing.
• Bridge your rides: While appealing, try Ready To Go via DCF, local transit microtransit, or CarShare MobilityShare; also call Vermont 2‑1‑1 for short‑term help.

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Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your school or DCF worker to use “preferred name” and safety notes when scheduling NEMT rides; for work commutes, CATMA’s Guaranteed Ride Home can cover emergencies if your employer participates, and CarShare VT MobilityShare avoids relying on a partner’s car or insurance.

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply for ADA paratransit via GMT (Chittenden) or call SSTA; statewide, the O&D Program funds essential trips. If your child qualifies for McKinney‑Vento, request school transportation immediately from the AOE EHCY page.

Veteran single mothers: For VA care, call White River Junction VA (802‑295‑9363) and ask about DAV Vans; set up rides 48 hours ahead and save the eligibility letter. Pair with Advance Transit and TVT River Route to reach DHMC.

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Ask for language support on calls; AOT offers translations on Electrify Your Fleet info (indicator of statewide translation services), and CVOEO programs serve New Americans. Dial 2‑1‑1 and request an interpreter for transit and benefits helplines.

Tribal‑specific resources: Use Vermont 2‑1‑1 to locate AHS Field Services Directors and culturally specific supports; ask your liaison to coordinate school transportation via AOE EHCY. Pair with RCT volunteer drivers in rural counties.

Rural single moms with limited access: Check for on‑demand microtransit like MyRide by GMT and SEVT Windsor microtransit; use RCT Rides in the NEK and TVT Dial‑A‑Ride in Addison/Orange/N. Windsor.

Single fathers: Same programs apply. Ask DCF about Reach Up/First/Ahead, use VPTA NEMT for medical, and CarShare MobilityShare to avoid high insurance.

Language access: For state calls, request interpreters; VTrans lists translations on Electrify Your Fleet; the VA offers TTY 711 on WRJ contact page; RCT posts TTY access on contact.

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How to Get to Common Destinations Faster (Examples)

How to reach UVM Medical Center from Winooski: Use GMT Local routes (check Ride Ready caps), or if medically necessary and eligible, schedule NEMT via VPTA 48 hours ahead.

Bennington to Brattleboro job interview: Check GMCN Emerald Line, verify hours (some 2025 changes region‑wide), and keep SEVT as a connection; if schedules don’t fit, ask DCF for a Ready To Go referral.

Hartford/WRJ to DHMC: Take Advance Transit Orange/Yellow (fare‑free); if you’re a VA patient, arrange a DAV Van.

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Step‑by‑Step: Car Access Without Buying a Car

• Join a carshare: Apply for CarShare VT MobilityShare for a free membership and reduced per‑hour/per‑mile rates, with insurance and fuel included — useful for grocery runs, weekend visits, or school shopping. Pair with Transit app for first/last‑mile.
• Use microtransit when buses don’t fit: Try MyRide by GMT or SEVT microtransit where available. In the NEK and Lamoille, check RCT Rides zones.
• Ask DCF about repairs: Minor fixes can be cheaper than a new car; ask Reach Up and Reach Ahead about repair support. If a car is placed via Wheels to Work, maintain it to keep your job.

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Tables You Can Screenshot

Vermont Transit & Ride Programs at a Glance

Clean Transportation Incentives — Status Snapshot (Sept 2025)

DCF Employment‑Related Options

NEMT Key Rules You’ll Hear on the Phone

Quick Contacts by Need

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FAQs (Vermont‑Specific)

1. How do I get a ride to an appointment tomorrow?
   Try your local transit first (e.g., GMT, TVT, RCT). For Medicaid NEMT, rides inside 48 hours can be hard to approve unless urgent; still call VPTA 1‑833‑387‑7200 and ask. If denied, call Vermont 2‑1‑1 for volunteer drivers.
2. Are buses free in Burlington?
   GMT resumed fares on Chittenden County routes with $2 base fares and daily/monthly caps via Ride Ready; rural areas remain largely fare‑free. Check CATMA’s fare update and GMT communications.
3. Can DCF pay for my car repair so I can keep working?
   Yes, if you’re in Reach Up or Reach Ahead and approved by your case manager. Ask today and document how the repair keeps your job.
4. What if I have a car, but it’s uninsured or my partner uses it for work?
   You can still qualify for NEMT by filing a Vehicle Exception (include employment verification if the car is used for work). Agencies like GMCN explain conditions.
5. Is there a free commute ride in the Upper Valley?
   Yes. Advance Transit is fare‑free and connects White River Junction with Lebanon/Hanover and DHMC. Check routes.
6. Who do I call for ADA paratransit in Burlington area?
   Apply through GMT ADA and schedule with SSTA at 1‑802‑878‑1527.
7. Can I still get a state EV or e‑bike rebate in 2025?
   State programs (New PEV, MileageSmart, Replace Your Ride, e‑bikes) are closed as of June–August 2025; check VTrans for updates. Burlington Electric offers local e‑bike rebates.
8. How do I get a ride to VA care?
   Call WRJ VA 1‑802‑295‑9363 and ask for DAV Vans; use Advance Transit for local connections.
9. Where do I complain if my ride didn’t show up?
   Call your transit agency (e.g., TVT dispatch or SSTA), then escalate to VPTA for NEMT issues. Keep times, names, and a call log.
10. My license is suspended. Can I get a “work license”?
    No. Vermont does not offer a hardship/work license. Pay reinstatement at DMV Reinstatement and meet all requirements listed under Suspensions. Use rides until you’re reinstated.

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Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Este resumen fue traducido con herramientas de IA. Verifique los detalles con las agencias oficiales.

• Rides para citas médicas (Medicaid/NEMT): Llame a VPTA 1‑833‑387‑7200 y revise DVHA NEMT y formularios en VPTA Forms (solicite con 48 horas de anticipación).
• Trabajo y cuidado infantil: Pida ayuda de transporte a Reach Up, Reach First o Reach Ahead; consulte Good News Garage – Ready To Go.
• Transporte público: Verifique GMT (Burlington), TVT (Addison/Orange/N. Windsor), RCT (NEK), MVRTD (Rutland), MOOver (Windham) y Advance Transit (Upper Valley).
• Paratránsito/Discapacidad: Solicite ADA/Paratransit de GMT y programe con SSTA; programe O&D para mayores/discapacidad.
• Ayuda inmediata: Llame a Vermont 2‑1‑1 para recursos locales, intérpretes y voluntarios conductores.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Department of Vermont Health Access — NEMT
• Vermont Public Transportation Association — Medicaid Transportation
• Vermont Agency of Transportation — Incentives
• Department for Children and Families — Reach Up/First/Ahead
• Green Mountain Transit — Service/Fares via partners
• Tri‑Valley Transit, Rural Community Transportation, MVRTD, SEVT, Advance Transit
• Good News Garage — Vermont Programs
• Vermont Agency of Education — McKinney‑Vento
• Vermont DMV — Reinstatement/Suspensions

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 resource is informational, not legal advice. Programs change based on funding. Always confirm current eligibility, documents, and wait times with the agency or provider linked above. If you face an urgent safety or medical issue, dial 9‑1‑1. For up‑to‑date statewide referrals, call Vermont 2‑1‑1, for Medicaid ride appeals see DVHA NEMT, and for benefits questions call DCF Benefits.

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Tip: Save this page, keep the broker numbers in your phone, and set calendar reminders for ride bookings (48 hours ahead) and DCF appointments. If anything here doesn’t match what you’re told on the phone, ask the staff to point you to the posted policy or form — then screenshot it.

🏛️More Vermont Resources for Single Mothers

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