Grants for Disabled People in Vermont
Vermont boasts a rich tapestry of natural beauty and community spirit. Amidst its verdant mountains and quaint villages, the state is committed to ensuring the well-being and prosperity of its residents, including those facing disabilities. In this enriching exploration, we delve into the diverse array of support programs available to empower disabled individuals across the Green Mountain State. From comprehensive healthcare provisions to innovative employment initiatives and community-based services, Vermont offers a tapestry of resources designed to foster independence, dignity and inclusivity.
State Assistance
Vermont Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
DVR provides a spectrum of vocational rehabilitation services to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve employment and independence. Through personalized assessments, skill development programs and job placement services, DVR assists disabled Vermonters in realizing their career aspirations and economic self-sufficiency. Read more at https://dail.vermont.gov/divisions/dvr.
Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living
The Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living administers various programs and services to enhance the quality of life and community integration of disabled people in Vermont. From home-based support to assistive technology resources and long-term care options, they foster a culture of inclusion and empowerment for individuals of all abilities. To learn more, visit https://dail.vermont.gov/.
Health Assistance for Disabled People
Green Mountain Care (GMC)
Vermont’s universal healthcare system, GMC, provides comprehensive medical coverage to disabled residents, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions and preventive services. With a focus on holistic wellness and patient-centered care, GMC ensures that disabled individuals have access to the healthcare services they need to thrive. For further information, visit https://gmcboard.vermont.gov/.
Prescription Assistance
Prescription Assistance offers financial assistance to low-income people with disabilities to help cover the cost of prescription medications. By reducing out-of-pocket expenses for vital prescriptions, they ensure that disabled Vermonters can afford the medications they need to manage their health conditions effectively. For more information, visit https://dvha.vermont.gov/members/prescription-assistance.
Social Security
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Disabled individuals in Vermont can apply for SSDI or SSI benefits to receive financial assistance for living expenses and medical needs. These programs provide crucial support to individuals with disabilities who are unable to engage in substantial gainful activity due to their impairments. More information is available at https://www.ncoa.org/article/ssi-vs-ssdi-what-are-these-benefits-how-they-differ.
Ticket to Work Program
Vermont’s Ticket to Work Program offers disabled people opportunities for vocational rehabilitation and employment services while retaining their Social Security benefits. By facilitating access to job training, career counseling and workplace accommodations, the program empowers disabled individuals to achieve their employment goals and financial independence. Read more at https://www.ssa.gov/work/.
Financial Assistance for Disabled People
Vermont Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP provides nutrition assistance to low-income individuals and families, including disabled Vermonters. The program helps disabled individuals access nutritious meals and maintain their health by offering electronic benefits for food purchases. To learn more, visit https://www.healthvermont.gov/wellness/physical-activity-nutrition/about-snap-ed.
Vermont General Assistance (GA)
GA offers temporary financial assistance to disabled individuals facing financial hardship and unable to meet their basic needs. GA provides a safety net for disabled Vermonters during times of crisis through cash benefits, housing assistance and other supportive services. For further information, visit https://dcf.vermont.gov/benefits/EA-GA.
Housing and Rent Assistance For Disabled People
Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA)
VHFA offers a range of housing assistance programs, including rental subsidies, down payment assistance and affordable housing development initiatives. The agency collaborates with local organizations and landlords to assist disabled people in obtaining secure, consistent and reasonably priced housing options. For more information, visit https://www.vhfa.org/.
Vermont Rental Subsidy Program (VRSP)
VRSP provides rental assistance to disabled individuals with low incomes, enabling them to afford housing in the private rental market. Through rental vouchers and supportive services, the program promotes housing stability and prevents homelessness among disabled Vermonters. More details are available at https://helpingtohousevt.org/.
Utility Bill Assistance for Disabled People
Vermont Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
This program assists disabled people in managing utility bills by providing financial aid for heating and cooling costs. LIHEAP helps disabled Vermonters stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer by assisting with bill payments, weatherization services, and energy efficiency upgrades. Learn more about the program at https://liheapch.acf.hhs.gov/profiles/Vermont.
Charitable Assistance Programs
Vermont Foodbank
The Vermont Foodbank operates food assistance programs to support disabled people, single mothers, veterans and seniors facing food insecurity. They provide access to nutritious food for all Vermonters through food shelves, meal programs and community partnerships. To find out more information, visit https://www.vtfoodbank.org/.
Goodwill Northern New England
Goodwill offers job training, employment placement and supportive services to disabled individuals seeking to enter or reenter the workforce. Goodwill empowers disabled Vermonters to achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency. For further information, visit https://goodwillnne.org/about/.
Transportation Assistance for Disabled People
Green Mountain Transit (GMT)
GMT provides accessible public transit services to disabled people across Vermont, including fixed-route buses and paratransit services. With wheelchair-accessible vehicles and door-to-door assistance, GMT ensures that disabled Vermonters can travel safely and independently within their communities. To see more information, visit https://ridegmt.com/.
Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTrans)
The Vermont Agency of Transportation offers transportation assistance and mobility options to disabled people through various programs, including specialized transportation services and mobility management initiatives. By improving access to transportation resources, VTrans enhances the mobility and quality of life of disabled Vermonters. Read more at https://app.joinhandshake.com/employers/vermont-agency-of-transportation-vtrans-195880.
Legal Assistance for Disabled People
Vermont Legal Aid
Vermont Legal Aid offers free legal assistance to disabled individuals facing various legal challenges, including disability rights advocacy, benefits appeals and housing discrimination cases. Vermont Legal Aid protects the rights and interests of disabled Vermonters by using its dedicated attorneys and advocacy efforts. To learn more, visit https://vtlawhelp.org/.
Disability Rights Vermont (DRV)
DRV provides advocacy, education and legal assistance to disabled individuals across Vermont. With a focus on systemic advocacy and individual representation, DRV addresses disability-related legal issues and promotes equality, inclusion and accessibility for all Vermonters. Read more at https://www.disabilityrightsvt.org/.
Business Support for Disabled People
Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL)
VCIL offers entrepreneurship training, business development support and resources for disabled people interested in starting or growing their own businesses. They empower disabled entrepreneurs to pursue their business ventures and achieve economic self-sufficiency through their Business Start-Up program and peer mentoring initiatives. For more information, visit https://vcil.org/.
Vermont Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC)
VtSBDC provides guidance, counseling and training to disabled individuals seeking to start, manage, or expand their businesses. With a network of business advisors and specialized resources, VtSBDC offers tailored support to help disabled entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of business ownership and succeed in the competitive marketplace. To find out more information, visit https://addisoncountyedc.org/partners/vermont-small-business-development-center.
Assistance for Disabled Veterans
Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs (OVA)
The Office of Veterans Affairs is a state government organization. They offer a range of benefits and services for disabled veterans in Vermont, including disability compensation, healthcare benefits, vocational rehabilitation and housing assistance. Through its veteran service officers and outreach programs, OVA ensures that disabled veterans receive the support and resources they need to thrive in civilian life. To see more information, visit https://veterans.vermont.gov/.
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) – Department of Vermont
The Veterans of Foreign Wars provides assistance and advocacy for disabled veterans navigating the VA benefits system. VFW helps veterans access benefits, obtain disability ratings and navigate the appeals process to secure the benefits they deserve. More information is available at https://www.britannica.com/topic/Veterans-of-Foreign-Wars.
Assistance for Disabled Seniors
Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) of Vermont
ADRC provides information, assistance and access to services for disabled seniors and their caregivers. They help disabled seniors navigate their care needs and connect with community-based supports and services. Read more at https://asd.vermont.gov/services/adrc-nwd.
