Emergency Assistance, Resources and Programs for Seniors in Vermont (Authority Hub)

Last updated: August 2025

Quick Help Box (always visible)

If you are in danger or need urgent help, use these options right away.

Reality check: Some emergency programs open and close based on funding, weather rules, or declared disasters. Always check the linked official pages for current status and eligibility.

What This Guide Covers (and how to use it)

• This guide focuses on Vermont programs and steps for seniors age 60+ (and caregivers).
• Start with the Emergency Help section. If your need is not urgent, jump to the tables for money, housing, food, health, transportation, or legal help.
• We include direct links to official government and trusted statewide sources throughout.
• Where rules change often (like emergency housing), we point you to the Vermont agency page that posts updates.

According to recent U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, roughly one in five Vermonters are age 65 or older; Vermont has one of the oldest age profiles in the country. See the latest figures here: U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts – Vermont.

Emergency Help First

1) Safety, health, and mental health

• Call 911 for any life-threatening emergency.
• For a mental health crisis or if you’re worried about a loved one, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.
• Vermont’s Department of Mental Health lists statewide crisis resources and local community mental health providers: Vermont Department of Mental Health – Get Help.

Tip: If you prefer a peer support option, the nonprofit Pathways Vermont operates a statewide Support Line. Learn more here: Pathways Vermont Support Line.

2) Abuse, neglect, and exploitation

• Report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult to Vermont Adult Protective Services. APS explains who must report, what to include, and what happens next: Report elder abuse to APS.
• If the person is in immediate danger, call 911 first.

3) Emergency housing and disasters

• Vermont’s General Assistance (GA)/Emergency Assistance (EA) program may help with emergency housing and other urgent needs. Rules can change by season or disaster: DCF – EA/GA.
• For large disasters (floods, storms), monitor Vermont Emergency Management and sign up for VT-ALERT. If there is a federal disaster declaration, check FEMA Individual Assistance for eligibility and application windows.

Reality check: Hotel voucher rules and availability can shift quickly, especially during severe weather or when funding changes. Check the DCF page above or call 2-1-1 for current options in your county.

4) Heat, power, and utilities

• If you are out of fuel or at risk of running out soon, see Crisis Fuel Assistance.
• For regular seasonal help with home heating bills, see Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP).
• If you use life-sustaining medical equipment, notify your utility’s medical needs registry. Examples:
  • Green Mountain Power: Life Support/Medical Information
  • Vermont Electric Cooperative: Life Support Information
• For consumer protections and shut-off rules, see the Vermont Department of Public Service: Utility consumer help.

5) Food today

• Use 2-1-1 or the Vermont Foodbank’s searchable map: Find Food Near You.
• Older adults can also contact their local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for Meals on Wheels: see the AAA list further below.

Emergency Money, Housing, and Bills

The programs below most often help first in a crisis. Many are income-based.

Table 1. Fast-acting programs for urgent needs

Reality check: Emergency programs often require proof of identity, address, income, and the crisis (e.g., disconnect notice, empty oil tank, eviction notice). See the “Document Checklist” below to save time.

Food and Nutrition

• 3SquaresVT (SNAP): Monthly benefits on a card you can use at grocery stores and many farmers markets. Some households with older adults can use “simplified reporting.” Learn more: 3SquaresVT.
• Meals on Wheels and Congregate Meals: Run by Vermont’s five Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). Check your county’s AAA below or start here:
  • Age Well (Northwest VT): Age Well – Meals
  • Senior Solutions (Southeast VT): Senior Solutions – Nutrition
  • NEK Council on Aging (Northeast VT): NEK Council on Aging – Nutrition
  • Central VT Council on Aging: CVCOA – Nutrition
  • Southwestern VT Council on Aging: SVCOA – Nutrition
• Senior Food Boxes (CSFP): Monthly box of shelf-stable foods for eligible adults 60+. Operated by the Vermont Foodbank with federal support. Details: Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP).
• Farm To Family (Farmers Market Coupons): Seasonal coupons to buy local produce at participating markets. Administered by DCF: Farm To Family.

Table 2. Food programs at a glance

Tip: If mobility is an issue, ask your AAA about meal delivery and wellness checks. If English is not your first language, ask for interpretation help when you call.

Health Care, Medicare, and Prescriptions

• Medicaid for Older Adults (Aged, Blind & Disabled): Vermont Medicaid coverage for those who qualify based on age/disability and income/resources. Learn more at the Department of Vermont Health Access: Vermont Medicaid – Members.
• Choices for Care (Long-Term Care Medicaid): For nursing homes, enhanced residential care, or services at home to help you remain in your community. Start here: Choices for Care (DAIL).
• Medicare Counseling (SHIP): Free, unbiased help choosing Medicare plans and understanding costs, offered through Vermont’s AAAs. National info and locator: SHIP Help. Your local AAA can book an appointment.
• Prescription Help (VPharm and Healthy Vermonters): State pharmacy programs that may help with Part D costs and prescription discounts. See DVHA’s pharmacy programs: Vermont Pharmacy Programs.
• Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (Medicaid): Rides to covered medical appointments for eligible Medicaid members. See: Medicaid Transportation (DVHA) and ask about NEMT.
• Adult Day Programs: Daytime care, health monitoring, social activities, and respite for caregivers. Learn more: Adult Day Services (DAIL).

Dental care: The Vermont Department of Health maintains oral health resources and safety-net clinics. Start here: Oral Health – Vermont Department of Health. For urgent dental pain or infection, ask a community health center or dental school clinic about emergency slots.

Table 3. Health and caregiving support

Reality check: Long-term care programs like Choices for Care may have waitlists for some “home- and community-based” services. If the need is urgent, let the intake worker know and ask about priority criteria.

Housing, Home Repairs, and Utilities

• Section 8 and Subsidized Apartments: Vermont State Housing Authority (VSHA) and local housing groups operate vouchers and subsidized apartments. See: VSHA.
• Home Sharing: HomeShare Vermont matches homeowners with housemates for rent or help with household tasks. Learn more and apply: HomeShare Vermont.
• Home Weatherization: Free energy upgrades for eligible households through the state’s Weatherization Assistance Program: Weatherization (DCF).
• Accessibility Modifications: The Vermont Center for Independent Living’s Home Access Program can help with ramps and accessibility changes for eligible Vermonters with disabilities: VCIL – Home Access Program.
• Property Tax Credits: Vermont homeowners and renters with lower incomes may qualify for a state property tax credit. Learn more: Vermont Property Tax Credit.
• Utility Protections and Discounts:
  • Electricity discount for eligible customers: Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Utility consumer protections and complaint help: Department of Public Service – Consumer Affairs

USDA Rural Home Repair Loans/Grants (Section 504): Low-interest loans and grants for very low-income homeowners to fix health/safety issues. Info for Vermont: USDA Rural Development – Vermont/NH and national program page: Section 504 Home Repair.

Table 4. Housing and utility programs

Reality check: Rental assistance programs that operated during the pandemic are no longer open. If you have rental arrears or face eviction, contact Vermont Legal Aid and your local Community Action Agency right away.

Transportation and Mobility

• Elders & Persons with Disabilities (E&D) Transportation: Coordinated by local transit providers and AAAs for rides to medical and other essential trips. Learn about public transit and E&D services via the Vermont Agency of Transportation: VTrans – Public Transit. Your AAA can help you get connected.
• Medicaid Non-Emergency Medical Transportation: If you have Medicaid, ask about covered rides to medical appointments: DVHA – Members (look for transportation/NEMT information).
• Assistive Technology: Free device trials and help finding low-cost mobility or daily-living equipment through the Vermont Assistive Technology Program: ATP Vermont.

Tip: If you live in a rural area, book rides as early as possible. Some providers require 48–72 hours’ notice.

Scam Alerts, Money Management, and Legal Help

• Consumer Protection and Scam Alerts: The Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program posts alerts and can help you respond to scams: VT AG – Consumer Assistance.
• Free or Low-Cost Legal Help:
  • Vermont Legal Aid
  • Legal Services Vermont
• Benefits Screening: Use the National Council on Aging’s tool to find programs you might qualify for: BenefitsCheckUp.

Social Security, SSI, or Medicare issues: Use the official SSA site for forms and local office info: Find your SSA office.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Gather documents.

• Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport)
• Social Security number
• Proof of Vermont residency (lease, utility bill)
• Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension, pay stubs)
• Recent bank statements (for some programs)
• Proof of the emergency (disconnect notice, eviction notice, empty oil tank slip, medical bill)

2. Call first if you can.

• For emergency housing or fuel, call your Community Action Agency or 2-1-1.
• For long-term care or Medicare help, call your AAA.

3. Apply online or in person using the official links above.
4. Ask about “expedited” or “crisis” processing if your situation is urgent.
5. Keep copies of everything you submit and write down names, dates, and confirmation numbers.

Reality check: If your first application is denied, you may have the right to appeal. Ask Vermont Legal Aid about deadlines and how to file: Appeals and Hearings – VT Legal Aid.

Inclusive Resources: LGBTQ+ Seniors, Veterans, Native/Tribal Communities, and Rural Seniors

• LGBTQ+ older adults
  • Pride Center of Vermont’s “Momentum” program offers social connection and resources for LGBTQ+ people 55+: Pride Center of Vermont – Momentum.
  • For national resources and caregiver support, see SAGE.
  • If you experience bias or need help navigating care settings, your AAA and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman can assist: VT Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
• Veteran seniors
  • Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs can help with VA health care enrollment, benefits, and state exemptions: Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs.
  • VA Medical Center (White River Junction) and clinics provide primary and specialty care: VA White River Junction Health Care.
  • Ask your AAA about veteran-specific help with housing, home care, and caregiver support, and see VA Caregiver Support: VA Caregiver Support.
• Native/Tribal communities in Vermont
  • Vermont recognizes several Abenaki communities at the state level. For cultural liaison, community contacts, and updates, see the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs (VCNAA).
  • Eligible individuals who are members of federally recognized tribes may access certain federal programs (e.g., IHS-related), even if living in Vermont. For aging program listings, see the Administration for Community Living’s Title VI directory: ACL Title VI Programs.
  • If you’re unsure where to start, contact 2-1-1 and ask for referrals that respect tribal identity and language needs.
• Rural seniors and families with limited access
  • Ask your AAA about E&D transportation and volunteer driver programs. Plan ahead for winter and schedule recurring medical rides.
  • Register your medical device needs with your utility (see links above) and sign up for VT-ALERT.
  • Check broadband and telehealth options through your health provider and town library. The Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024; for current internet discounts, check with your internet provider and see FCC Lifeline.

Statewide Agencies Every Vermont Senior Should Know

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)

AAAs are your best “first call” for non-emergency help with benefits, Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, Medicare counseling, transportation coordination, falls prevention, and more.

• Age Well (Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle): Age Well
• Central Vermont Council on Aging (Lamoille, Orange, Washington): CVCOA
• Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging (Caledonia, Essex, Orleans): NEK Council on Aging
• Senior Solutions, Council on Aging for Southeastern VT (Windham, Windsor): Senior Solutions
• Southwestern Vermont Council on Aging (Bennington, Rutland): SVCOA

Community Action Agencies (CAAs)

CAAs are key partners for crisis fuel, weatherization, rent/utility help, and financial coaching.

• BROC Community Action (Bennington, Rutland): BROC
• Capstone Community Action (Central VT – Washington, Orange, Lamoille): Capstone
• CVOEO – Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle): CVOEO
• NEKCA – Northeast Kingdom Community Action (Caledonia, Essex, Orleans): NEKCA
• SEVCA – Southeastern Vermont Community Action (Windham, Windsor): SEVCA

Resources by Region (Who to call for Meals, Fuel, Housing help)

Use this section to match your county with the right AAA and Community Action Agency.

Northwest (Addison, Chittenden, Franklin, Grand Isle)

• AAA: Age Well
• CAA: CVOEO
• Notes: Ask about Meals on Wheels, 3SquaresVT help, weatherization intake, tenant counseling, and tax prep in season.

Central (Lamoille, Orange, Washington)

• AAA: CVCOA
• CAA: Capstone Community Action
• Notes: CVCOA provides caregiver support and SHIP counseling; Capstone handles fuel assistance intakes and weatherization.

Northeast Kingdom (Caledonia, Essex, Orleans)

• AAA: NEK Council on Aging
• CAA: NEKCA
• Notes: Rural distances are long—book rides early; ask about food box home delivery if mobility is limited.

Southeast (Windham, Windsor)

• AAA: Senior Solutions
• CAA: SEVCA
• Notes: Ask about fuel crisis procedures, appliance/heating system repair under weatherization, and homesharing leads.

Southwest (Bennington, Rutland)

• AAA: SVCOA
• CAA: BROC Community Action
• Notes: Check with SVCOA for Meals on Wheels and caregiver respite; BROC offers rent/utility assistance when funds are available.

More Programs You May Qualify For

• Vermont Assistive Technology Exchange (free/low-cost equipment listings): ATP Exchange
• Long-Term Care Ombudsman (resident rights in nursing homes/residential care): VT Ombudsman
• Adult Protective Services (report abuse/neglect/exploitation): APS
• Vermont Department of Health (public health, emergency updates, cooling/heating safety): VDH
• Vermont Emergency Management (storm readiness, shelters): VEM
• Social Security and Medicare: SSA official site
• HUD-approved housing counselors (foreclosure/rental counseling): Find a HUD Counselor
• SASH – Support and Services at Home (onsite support in many senior housing communities): SASH Vermont

Document Checklist (save time)

Bring these whenever you apply or call about benefits:

• Photo ID; Social Security number
• Proof of Vermont address
• Proof of income and assets (Social Security, pensions, bank statements)
• Proof of crisis (disconnect/eviction notice, medical bill, oil slip)
• Health insurance cards (Medicare/Medicaid/VA), list of medications
• Landlord or fuel dealer information, if relevant

Tip: Keep a “Benefits Folder” with copies of everything you submit and notes on each call (date, name, what was promised).

Common Situations and What to Do

• My heat will run out this week.
  1. Call your Community Action Agency and check Crisis Fuel Assistance.
  2. Ask about delivery timelines and what proof the fuel dealer needs.
  3. If you heat with electricity, ask about both crisis fuel and the Electric Energy Assistance Program.
• I can’t afford my prescriptions this month.
  1. Call your AAA about emergency funds or short-term help.
  2. Check VPharm/Healthy Vermonters.
  3. Ask your pharmacy about lower-cost generics and manufacturer assistance.
• I received an eviction notice.
  1. Contact Vermont Legal Aid immediately.
  2. Call your CAA for rent assistance and 2-1-1 for backup resources.
  3. If a court date is set, do not miss it—ask Legal Aid how to prepare.
• I need help caring for my spouse at home.
  1. Call your AAA and ask for a caregiver options counseling appointment.
  2. Ask about Choices for Care and respite.
  3. If you need daytime help, look at Adult Day Services.

Frequently Asked Questions (Vermont-specific)

Q1) How fast can I get help with heat?

• Crisis Fuel can sometimes approve help quickly if you meet the definition of a fuel emergency. Start here: Crisis Fuel Assistance. Call your Community Action Agency to speed things up. Deliveries depend on dealer schedules and weather.

Q2) Is there emergency housing right now?

• Rules change. Vermont’s emergency housing (hotel/motel) under GA/EA depends on funding, season, and special circumstances (e.g., severe weather or disasters). Check the current policy on DCF – EA/GA and call 2-1-1 for real-time local information.

Q3) Where do I apply for Meals on Wheels?

• Through your regional AAA. Use the AAA list above or call Vermont 2-1-1 to get the direct intake number.

Q4) Can I get help lowering my electric bill every month?

• If you’re a customer of Green Mountain Power or Vermont Electric Cooperative and meet income guidelines, you may qualify for a monthly discount: Energy Assistance Program (EAP). Also review weatherization options for long-term savings: Weatherization (DCF).

Q5) What is Choices for Care, and how is it different from regular Medicaid?

• Choices for Care is Vermont’s long-term care Medicaid program. It can fund nursing home care, enhanced residential care, or care at home for eligible Vermonters who meet both financial and clinical criteria. Learn more and request an assessment: Choices for Care.

Q6) I live in a rural area and don’t drive. How do I get to medical appointments?

• Ask your AAA to connect you to E&D transportation. If you have Medicaid, ask about NEMT rides: DVHA – Members. Book rides as early as possible.

Q7) I think someone is taking money from my bank account. What should I do?

• Call your bank to freeze or flag suspicious activity. Report to Adult Protective Services if a caregiver or trusted person may be involved. If it’s a scam, report to the VT Attorney General – Consumer Assistance Program.

Q8) Are there programs to help with home repairs or making my bathroom safer?

• Check USDA Section 504 Home Repair and VCIL Home Access Program. Weatherization can sometimes address health and safety issues related to heating systems: Weatherization (DCF).

Q9) I can’t afford dental care. Where do I start?

• Check the Vermont Department of Health’s oral health page for clinics and programs: Oral Health – VDH. Ask a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) about sliding-fee emergency appointments.

Q10) Does Vermont still have internet discounts for low-income seniors?

• The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended in 2024. Check with your internet provider for any low-cost plans and review the FCC’s Lifeline program for phone/internet assistance.

Practical Tips to Avoid Delays

• Call early in the day, and if you get voicemail, leave a clear message with your name, phone number, town, and the type of help you need.
• If you have multiple needs (heat + food + medications), say that. Some agencies can bundle help.
• If weather is bad or a disaster just happened, expect longer wait times and supply delays. Keep calling if you don’t hear back.

Key Contacts (Quick Reference Table)

Table 5. Statewide contacts and portals

Real-World Examples (What this looks like in practice)

• Heat crisis in January: A 73-year-old in Rutland calls BROC Community Action on Monday morning with an empty oil tank. They help file a Crisis Fuel application, contact the fuel dealer, and arrange delivery mid-week. The senior also applies for regular Fuel Assistance for the rest of the season through DCF Fuel Assistance.
• Eviction threat in the Northeast Kingdom: A 68-year-old with rising medical bills receives a Notice to Quit. She calls Vermont Legal Aid the same day and is advised on tenant rights. NEKCA reviews rent assistance options and helps her apply for 3SquaresVT for food support.
• Caring for a spouse at home in Windsor County: An 82-year-old caregiver calls Senior Solutions and learns about Choices for Care personal care services and respite, and books a SHIP appointment to review Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap.

Reality Checks and Warnings

• Programs can close or pause when funds run out. Always verify on the official agency page the day you apply.
• Scammers target older adults during disasters. If someone demands payment or gift cards for “FEMA approvals” or promises guaranteed benefits, hang up and report to the Consumer Assistance Program.
• If you receive a denial letter, there is often an appeal window. Keep the envelope, the letter, and call Legal Aid quickly.

Resources (Official and Trusted Links)

Government/state:

• Vermont Department for Children and Families – Benefits
• Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging & Independent Living (DAIL)
• Department of Vermont Health Access (DVHA)
• Vermont Department of Health
• Vermont Emergency Management
• Vermont Department of Public Service – Consumer
• Vermont State Housing Authority
• Vermont Department of Taxes – Property Tax Credit

Aging network and nonprofits:

• Area Agencies on Aging (see region list above)
• Community Action Agencies (see region list above)
• Vermont Foodbank – Find Food
• Vermont Legal Aid
• Legal Services Vermont
• VCIL – Home Access Program
• HomeShare Vermont
• Pride Center of Vermont – Momentum
• SASH Vermont
• BenefitsCheckUp (NCOA)

Federal:

• FEMA Individual Assistance
• Medicare & Social Security – SSA
• FCC Lifeline
• USDA Section 504 Home Repair
• HUD – Find a Housing Counselor
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Disclaimer

Program rules, funding levels, and eligibility change. Links may be updated by agencies after publication. Always confirm details directly with the official agency or program before you apply or make decisions. This guide is for general information and is not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice.

About This Guide

by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team

The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.

Our Commitment to You:

• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.

While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.

• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.