Vermont 211
Free and confidential help finding community, health and human services. Dial 211 or text your zip code to 898211.
Official page: vermont211.org
Find Help in Vermont: Where to Start with 211, 3SquaresVT, Medicaid and Shelter
A simple first step guide for Vermont: call or text Vermont 211, apply for 3SquaresVT and Medicaid, find a place to sleep tonight, and reach 988 and free legal help.
Need help tonight?
Start here
Hi friend. If things feel like too much right now, you don't have to figure it all out at once. Start with one call to 211, then take the next small step from this page.
Quick answers
What is Vermont 211 and how do I reach it?
Vermont 211 is a free, confidential service run by the United Ways of Vermont. It connects you with community, health and human services. Dial 211, or text your zip code to 898211.
Official page: vermont211.org
How do I apply for food help (3SquaresVT)?
Apply online through the myBenefits portal. You can also print Form 202, or call the Benefits Service Center at 800 479 6151 to ask for a paper copy, then upload it, mail it, or drop it off at a district office. If you are 60 or older, there is a line at 800 642 5119.
Official page: dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/3SquaresVT
How do I apply for Medicaid?
Apply online at VermontHealthConnect.gov, or call the Customer Support Center at 855 899 9600, Monday to Friday, 7:45 am to 4:30 pm. You can also mail a paper application. The Waterbury office does not take walk ins, so use a district office for in person help.
Official page: dvha.vermont.gov/apply
Where can I sleep tonight?
Call 211 to find a shelter near you. The VTLawHelp shelter list has phone numbers for shelters in Burlington, Barre, Brattleboro, Rutland, St. Albans, White River Junction and more. For state hotel or motel emergency housing, call the DCF Emergency Housing Line at 800 775 0506, Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm.
Official page: vtlawhelp.org/homeless-shelters-and-help-homeless-people
What if I'm in crisis or thinking about suicide?
Call or text 988, or chat at chat.988lifeline.org. It is free and open 24/7. For Spanish, call 988 and press 2, or text AYUDA to 988.
Official page: 988lifeline.org/get-help
Your next steps
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Bunkly tip: write 211 and 988 on a card and keep it with your ID. If your phone dies, you can ask anyone to call for you.
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.
Benefits Service Center, Vermont DCF
Apply for 3SquaresVT and ask for paper forms or General Assistance applications. Accepts relay calls.
Official page: dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/3SquaresVT
Vermont Health Connect, DVHA
Apply for Medicaid online, by phone, by mail, or with local help. Monday to Friday, 7:45 am to 4:30 pm.
Official page: dvha.vermont.gov/apply
DCF Emergency Housing Line
Apply for state emergency housing by phone, on paper, or at a DCF district office. Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm.
Official page: vtlawhelp.org/homeless-shelters-and-help-homeless-people
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Free support by call, text or chat, 24/7. Spanish is available.
Official page: 988lifeline.org/get-help
Legal Services Vermont and Vermont Legal Aid
Free civil legal help for problems like eviction, benefits and shelter denials. Call or fill out the form on VTLawHelp.
Official page: vtlawhelp.org/homeless-shelters-and-help-homeless-people
More help in Vermont
Housing help in Vermont (rent, eviction, utilities)Emergency 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 ShelterHow to Make Blessing Bags in Vermont: Heat, Cold and What Neighbors Need
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.