CDC, Winter Weather
Tips on layers, hypothermia warning signs and what to do.
Official page: cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/index.html
How to Make Blessing Bags in Vermont: Heat, Cold and What Neighbors Need
A simple guide to packing blessing bags for neighbors without a home in Vermont, with CDC heat and cold tips, a Vermont 211 card, and what local shelters ask for.
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Hi friend. A small bag with water, snacks and a few basics can mean a lot to someone on the street. In Vermont the winters are hard, so think warm and keep it simple.
Quick answers
What should I add for cold weather?
CDC suggests a hat, mittens or gloves, a scarf or knit mask for the face, a water resistant coat and boots, and several loose layers. Wet clothes can cause hypothermia even above 40 degrees. Warning signs are shivering, unusual tiredness, confusion, clumsy hands, slurred speech and drowsiness.
Official page: cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/index.html
What should I add for hot weather?
Water matters most. CDC says to drink more water than usual and to start before you feel thirsty. Add a note about cool places like libraries and shopping malls. Muscle cramps, headache, nausea or vomiting are signs to get medical care.
Official page: cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-low-income.html
What info card should I include?
Write a small card that says: Vermont 211, dial 211, or text your zip code to 898211. Add 988 for crisis support, and the phone number of a shelter near you.
Official page: vermont211.org
What do local groups ask for?
Upper Valley Haven asks for winter coats, hats, gloves, scarves and new underwear, dropped off at the front desk, 713 Hartford Ave in White River Junction. COTS is collecting new winter boots this October. Call before you drop things off.
Official page: uppervalleyhaven.org
Where can a neighbor get warm or cool off?
Some Vermont towns have winter warming shelters run by churches, agencies and groups. Dial 211 to find one. The Vermont Department of Health posts places to stay cool on hot days.
Official page: vtlawhelp.org/homeless-shelters-and-help-homeless-people
Your next steps
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Bunkly tip: in Vermont, warm and dry beats almost everything. Wool socks and a hat are often the first things a neighbor asks for.
Who to call in Vermont
Here are official places to start. Other places may also help. Each place decides who it can serve, and hours change, so call ahead when you can.
CDC, Heat and Health
Tips on water, cooling places and warning signs of heat illness.
Official page: cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-low-income.html
Vermont 211
Free help finding shelter, food and services. Dial 211 or text your zip code to 898211.
Official page: vermont211.org
Upper Valley Haven
Winter coats, hats, gloves, scarves and new underwear can go to the front desk.
Official page: uppervalleyhaven.org
COTS
Running a winter boot drive for new boots this October.
Official page: cotsonline.org
More help in Vermont
Housing help in Vermont (rent, eviction, utilities)Find Help in Vermont: Where to Start with 211, 3SquaresVT, Medicaid and ShelterEmergency Shelter Tonight in Vermont: Burlington, Barre, Brattleboro and How to Get HelpNo cost Food Help in Vermont: 3SquaresVT, WIC and Food ShelvesNo cost Clothing, Showers and Hygiene Help in VermontJob Help and Free Job Training in Vermont: Job Centers, JobLink and MoreFree and Low Cost Health and Mental Health Care in Vermont: Medicaid, 988 and ClinicsDomestic Violence Help in Vermont: Safety, Shelter and Legal SupportHelp for Veterans in Vermont: Housing, Crisis Support and VA CareHelp for Youth and Young Adults in Vermont: Shelter, Drop In Centers and Crisis LinesGetting an ID and Replacing Papers in Vermont: DMV, Birth Certificates and MailFree and Low Cost Phones and Internet in Vermont: Lifeline and MoreFree Legal Help and Tenant Rights in Vermont: Eviction, Benefits and Shelter
Sources last checked Oct 28, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or housing. Each person chooses which options to use.