Vermont 211
Last updated August 2026
When you are not sure which Vermont program to call, dial 2-1-1. Vermont 211 is a free, confidential information and referral program of the United Ways of Vermont. It connects you to a wide range of community, health, and human resources and services near you.
There is more than one way to reach it. Dial 2-1-1 from any Vermont phone, or call 1-866-652-4636 or 802-652-4636. You can also text your ZIP code to 898211 to get connected. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The referrals cover the needs that often pile up at once. Vermont 211 helps with housing, utilities, food assistance, health care, and crisis support. It connects you to the local agencies and services that can actually help with each need.
You can also look things up yourself. Search the resource database online at search.vermont211.org. This lets you find local help on your own time, which is handy when you want to line up several calls before you make them.
For emergency housing, call rather than text or email. Emergency housing call hours are 4:30pm to 10pm on weekdays, and 8am to 10pm on weekends and holidays. Calling gets you a person who can walk you through the next step for a place to stay.
Know what 211 is and is not. It is free and confidential, open to everyone, with no income test. It refers you to help; it is not a benefit you apply for. For a mental health crisis, Vermont 211 also points you to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which you can reach by calling or texting 988 any hour.
Phone 1-866-652-4636
Help available in English and Spanish.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Available to everyone in Vermont; dial 2-1-1, call 1-866-652-4636, or text your ZIP code to 898211
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Dial 2-1-1, or call 1-866-652-4636 or 802-652-4636, from any Vermont phone.
- 2
Or text your ZIP code to 898211 to get connected.
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Say in one sentence what you need, like rent, heat, or food.
- 4
For emergency housing, call during the posted hours instead of texting.
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Write down each referral's name, number, and hours, then call quickly.
What the application looks like
Common questions
Is Vermont 211 free?
Yes. It is free and confidential, open to everyone, with no income test. Dial 2-1-1, call 1-866-652-4636, or text your ZIP code to 898211.
What can 211 help with?
Housing, utilities, food assistance, health care, and crisis support. It connects you to local agencies and services.
Is it open at night?
The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Emergency housing calls have set hours: 4:30pm to 10pm on weekdays and 8am to 10pm on weekends and holidays.
What if I am in a mental health crisis?
Call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, any hour. Keep 2-1-1 for housing, food, and utility help.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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