Vermont offers a range of services and programs to support individuals with disabilities, promoting accessibility, independence, and inclusion. Disability services in Vermont encompass various areas such as healthcare, education, employment assistance, transportation, and housing. These services are designed to help individuals with disabilities lead fulfilling lives, participate fully in their communities, and have equal opportunities for personal growth and development.
The need for disability services is substantial. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2024 129,726 adults in Vermont have a disability. This is equal to 25% or 1 in 4 adults in Vermont. Disabilities can include physical, sensory, cognitive, and mental health conditions, among others, and the state’s services aim to address the diverse needs of this population.
Throughout Vermont, individuals with disabilities can access assistance tailored to their specific needs. From early childhood intervention programs to resources for adults and seniors, these services are essential in ensuring equitable access to community life. The state also emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, providing individuals with disabilities and their families the tools and resources necessary to navigate the available services.
Disability agencies and service organizations work closely with state and local governments, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and employers to provide comprehensive support. These partnerships are essential in creating inclusive environments and ensuring compliance with federal and state disability laws.
The agencies and organizations offering disability services in Vermont are outlined below, providing crucial contact points for individuals seeking assistance or information about the programs available to them.
Vermont Disability Employment Services
Disability Rights Vermont provides advocacy, information, and referral services, assisting individuals with disabilities in securing employment opportunities while fighting against workplace discrimination.
The Vermont Center for Independent Living helps people with disabilities achieve their employment goals by offering resources and support aimed at increasing their independence and participation in the workforce.
Champlain Community Services, part of Vermont Care Partners, offers employment support programs for individuals with developmental disabilities, promoting integrated employment opportunities in the community.
Green Mountain Support Services helps individuals with disabilities find and maintain employment through vocational training and supported employment programs, ensuring successful workplace integration.
The Howard Center, another Vermont Care Partner organization, provides employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job coaching and vocational assessments.
Counseling Service of Addison County offers a range of employment services tailored to individuals with developmental and mental health challenges, supporting their entry into the workforce.
The Arc of Vermont focuses on improving employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through advocacy and support, ensuring equitable access to community jobs.
United Counseling Service offers employment support services to individuals with disabilities in southern Vermont, assisting with job placement, training, and ongoing support.
Vermont Division of Vocational Rehabilitation provides comprehensive vocational services to help people with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and retain employment in integrated settings.
VERAP Program within Vermont Care Partners provides employment assistance, offering services aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities in finding meaningful work and contributing to their communities.
Vermont Independent Living Services
Pathways Vermont provides housing support, including the Housing First program, which offers permanent housing solutions for individuals with disabilities, including those experiencing homelessness.
Champlain Housing Trust offers affordable housing options and services, including housing for individuals with disabilities, with the goal of fostering long-term community integration.
Vermont State Housing Authority administers a variety of federal housing programs, including Section 8 vouchers, to help individuals with disabilities access affordable and accessible housing.
Supportive Housing and Shelter Program is part of Vermont’s Department for Children and Families, offering support services and housing solutions for people with disabilities, including emergency and transitional housing.
Vermont Coalition to End Homelessness focuses on providing housing support, including specific assistance for individuals with disabilities facing homelessness through their supportive housing programs.
Washington County Mental Health Services provides housing support and community-based residential programs for individuals with mental health or developmental disabilities, ensuring they have stable housing and the support needed to live independently.
Northeast Kingdom Community Action offers a range of housing assistance programs, including supportive housing for individuals with disabilities and those facing homelessness, with a focus on sustainable living solutions.
Autism Speaks – Housing and Community Living offers guidance and resources for individuals with autism and their families, including information on how to find housing and community living support tailored to the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities.
National Alliance on Mental Illness Vermont (NAMI Vermont) provides resources and housing assistance for individuals with mental illness, including programs that offer affordable and accessible living options with mental health support.
Cathedral Square offers affordable housing communities that include options for individuals with disabilities, focusing on providing both independent living and assisted care services in accessible environments.
Vermont Rehabilitation Services
Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VABVI) offers comprehensive rehabilitation services for individuals with vision impairments. Their programs include orientation and mobility training, adaptive equipment, and peer support to help people live independently.
Pathways Vermont provides innovative mental health and rehabilitation services, including the Housing First program and community-based supports for individuals with disabilities. Their services are focused on mental health recovery and reintegration into the community.
Howard Center offers rehabilitation and mental health services, including substance use recovery and developmental disability support. They provide therapeutic services to individuals across Vermont to help them live independently and integrate into the community.
Health Care and Rehabilitation Services, part of Vermont Care Partners, supports individuals with developmental and mental health disabilities through therapeutic programs, vocational services, and independent living support.
Northeast Kingdom Human Services offers a variety of rehabilitation services for individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health conditions. Their programs help clients achieve greater independence through skill development and community participation.
Recovery Vermont focuses on substance use rehabilitation, offering training and peer coaching programs to support individuals on their recovery journey, particularly those with co-occurring disabilities.
Champlain Community Services provides employment and community support services for people with disabilities, focusing on skill-building and helping clients achieve personal and vocational goals.
Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports offers sports rehabilitation programs for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities. Their outdoor sports activities support physical rehabilitation and promote well-being.
Clara Martin Center provides mental health rehabilitation services, including counseling and support for individuals with co-occurring disabilities. They offer a range of therapeutic services to help clients regain independence.
Upper Valley Services supports individuals with developmental disabilities through rehabilitation programs that focus on skill development, vocational training, and independent living.
Vermont Assistive Technology Services
The Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) provides a variety of assistive technology services aimed at increasing the independence of individuals with disabilities. VCIL offers resources and supports, including training in the use of assistive devices, home modifications, and access to technology that enhances mobility and communication.
Vermont Assistive Technology Program is a state-run program that helps individuals with disabilities obtain assistive technology to aid with communication, learning, mobility, and daily living activities. The program offers device demonstrations, loans, and training for individuals seeking to enhance their independence through technology.
All Brains Belong VT offers neurodiversity-affirming assistive technology solutions to support people with different cognitive needs. Their services include personalized evaluations and training in technology that fosters inclusion and connection within the community.
Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports provides adaptive sports equipment and assistive technology for recreational purposes, allowing people with physical and cognitive disabilities to participate in a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Disability Rights Vermont advocates for access to assistive technology for individuals with disabilities. They provide legal support and guidance to ensure Vermonters with disabilities can obtain the technology they need to live independently and access education, employment, and community resources.
The Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VABVI) offers assistive technology solutions specifically tailored to individuals with vision impairments. Their services include technology training, adaptive devices, and support for maintaining independence in everyday life.
These organizations ensure that individuals across Vermont have access to the tools they need to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
Vermont Disability Financial Assistance Services
The Social Security Administration offers comprehensive information on disability benefits, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, and the types of benefits available. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Use the Social Security Field Office locator to find a location near you or call toll-free: 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing and use TTY equipment, you can call their TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.
The Vermont Disability Determination Services office processes claims for Social Security disability benefits in the state. Visit the Vermont DDS website or call (802) 241-2460 for more information.
Disability financial assistance services provide critical support to help individuals with disabilities cover essential expenses, including housing, healthcare, and daily living costs. Here is a list of some in the state:
The Vermont Office of Workers’ Compensation ensures fair compensation for workers with disabilities due to work-related injuries or illnesses. For more information call (802) 828-2286.
Vermont Legal Aid offers free legal assistance to individuals with disabilities, helping them navigate public benefits, housing issues, and healthcare access.
Disability Rights Vermont provides advocacy and financial assistance support for people with disabilities, helping to ensure their rights are protected and that they receive the benefits they are entitled to.
Vermont Community Action Partnership offers a wide range of programs, including emergency financial assistance for housing, utilities, and other basic needs, to support low-income individuals, including those with disabilities.
Vermont Center for Independent Living provides financial assistance for home modifications and other services to help people with disabilities live independently.
Vermont Department for Children and Families – Economic Services Division helps individuals and families with disabilities access programs like 3SquaresVT, fuel assistance, and Reach Up to meet basic needs.
Vermont Assistive Technology Program provides financial support to help individuals with disabilities acquire assistive devices and technology for improved independence.
Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity offers financial assistance services to individuals with disabilities, focusing on housing, utility costs, and emergency needs.
Capstone Community Action assists individuals with disabilities in meeting their financial and housing needs through a variety of community-based programs.
Vermont Community Foundation provides grants and financial assistance to nonprofits and individuals, including those with disabilities, to support local causes and needs.
Northeast Kingdom Community Action offers financial assistance services, including emergency housing and energy support for low-income individuals and those with disabilities.
Vermont Disability Transportation Services
Disability transportation services offer crucial support to individuals with mobility challenges, ensuring they can access essential services and participate in daily activities.
Go! Vermont provides accessible transportation options for older adults and individuals with disabilities, offering services such as carpools, buses, and specialized transportation for medical appointments.
The Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VABVI) offers transportation assistance and mobility training to individuals with visual impairments, helping them navigate their communities more independently.
The Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) provides transportation services that support individuals with disabilities in accessing employment, medical care, and other essential activities.
Green Mountain Transit offers ADA-compliant public transportation services, including door-to-door paratransit services for individuals who cannot use regular fixed-route transit due to disabilities.
Vermont Care Partners facilitates transportation services for people with developmental and mental health disabilities, ensuring access to community-based programs and essential services.
The E&D Transportation Program offers accessible transportation services to older adults and persons with disabilities across Vermont, ensuring they can reach medical appointments, grocery stores, and social services.
The Rides to Wellness initiative connects individuals with disabilities to non-emergency medical transportation services, ensuring they can access essential healthcare services.
The Council on Aging for Southeastern Vermont provides transportation services for older adults and individuals with disabilities, focusing on medical appointments, shopping, and community involvement.
The Community Volunteer Driver Program pairs individuals in need of transportation with volunteers, offering free rides to essential appointments for those with limited transportation options.
The Special Services Transportation Agency (SSTA) offers paratransit and door-to-door services for individuals with disabilities in the Chittenden County area, focusing on providing safe and reliable transportation.
Vermont Disability Childcare Services
Disability childcare services in Vermont offer vital support to families of children with disabilities, helping them access inclusive, safe, and nurturing environments for their kids. These services often include specialized care, early intervention, and support to help children thrive.
Vermont Family Network empowers and supports families of children with disabilities by offering resources, advocacy, and individualized family support.
Child Care Resource provides access to childcare options, including those tailored to meet the needs of children with disabilities, and helps families find financial assistance for childcare.
Vermont Head Start Association supports early childhood education for vulnerable children, with 24% of enrolled children having a developmental disability or delay, providing a strong foundation for future success.
Umbrella’s Kingdom Child Care Connection offers specialized childcare referrals and financial assistance to families in the Northeast Kingdom, ensuring children with disabilities receive the care they need.
Vermont Parent Child Center Network connects families with young children to community-based services, offering early childhood education and resources tailored to the needs of children with disabilities.
Vermont Disability Recreational Services
Disability recreational services in Vermont provide individuals with disabilities access to outdoor activities, sports, and social events, helping to promote inclusion, physical activity, and overall well-being.
Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports offers year-round inclusive sports and recreational programming, including skiing, biking, and wellness camps for individuals with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities.
Special Olympics Vermont provides a variety of competitive and recreational sports programs for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, fostering physical fitness and social engagement.
Vermont Association of Snow Travelers (VAST) organizes snowmobile activities across over 5,000 miles of trails, with accessible options for individuals with disabilities to enjoy snowmobiling in a safe environment.
Brain Injury Alliance of Vermont offers recreational opportunities for individuals recovering from brain injuries, including events like the annual Walk & Roll for Brain Injury to promote physical activity and social connection.
ReSOURCE Vermont provides programs that include outdoor and hands-on activities aimed at fostering personal growth and community involvement, including career training in outdoor-related fields for individuals with disabilities.
Vermont Disability Rights & Legal Services
Disability Rights & Legal Services in Vermont provide essential advocacy and legal support to individuals with disabilities, helping them navigate complex systems, protect their rights, and ensure access to necessary services.
Disability Rights Vermont offers advocacy and legal representation to individuals with disabilities, focusing on protecting their rights against abuse, neglect, and rights violations.
Legal Services Vermont provides free legal assistance in civil matters, including housing, benefits, and discrimination, for individuals with disabilities across the state.
Vermont Legal Aid helps low-income residents with a variety of legal issues, including disability law, discrimination, and access to public benefits.
VTLawHelp.org is a collaborative resource from Vermont Legal Aid and Legal Services Vermont, offering legal information and assistance on topics such as disability benefits, discrimination, and guardianship.
Vermont Support Groups for People with Disabilities
Brain Injury Alliance of Vermont provides support groups for individuals recovering from brain injuries, including virtual and in-person options, to help survivors connect and share experiences.
NAMI Vermont offers peer-led support groups for individuals living with mental health conditions and their families, providing a safe space for sharing and recovery.
All Brains Belong VT focuses on creating inclusive, neurodiverse support spaces for individuals with different cognitive needs, offering social connection and healthcare services tailored to diverse brains.
These groups provide a range of support for emotional well-being, mental health, and physical recovery, ensuring that individuals with disabilities in Vermont have access to community and shared experiences.
Vermont Disability Housing Assistance
Habitat for Humanity Vermont offers affordable homeownership opportunities for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities, through partnerships to build or rehabilitate homes.
Volunteers of America provides disability-related housing support, including affordable housing, shelters, and permanent supportive housing for people with disabilities in Vermont.
Vermont State Housing Authority administers federal and state programs, including Section 8 housing vouchers, to help individuals with disabilities secure affordable and accessible housing.
National Disability Institute offers financial guidance and housing resources to people with disabilities, helping them navigate economic challenges and secure stable housing.
Champlain Housing Trust provides affordable housing solutions, including homeownership programs and rental options for individuals with disabilities in Vermont.
These organizations provide essential support, ensuring individuals with disabilities in Vermont have access to affordable, accessible housing and resources.
Vermont Disability Education Services
VT-HEC Special Educator Licensure Program offers a sequence of graduate-level courses aimed at equipping educators with the skills and knowledge to support students with disabilities, preparing them for licensure as special educators in Vermont.
Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VABVI) provides specialized educational services for children and adults with vision impairments, including mobility training, adaptive technology, and the Expanded Core Curriculum for students.
Vermont Family Network offers educational support to families of children with disabilities, advocating for appropriate educational services and helping navigate the special education process.
Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) promotes inclusive education by offering resources and advocacy for students with disabilities to ensure they receive appropriate accommodations and support in school settings.
Vermont Head Start Association provides early childhood education services, with 24% of enrolled children having developmental disabilities or delays, ensuring they receive the support needed to succeed from an early age.
These organizations focus on supporting students with disabilities at all stages of education, ensuring they have the resources and services needed to thrive.
Vermont Disability Healthcare Services
University of Vermont Health Network offers a wide range of healthcare services, including specialized care for individuals with disabilities, ensuring access to both routine and advanced medical services.
Vermont Care Partners provides healthcare services across a network of agencies, offering mental health, substance use treatment, and developmental disability support, including integrated healthcare programs.
VNAs of Vermont delivers home healthcare services, rehabilitation, and hospice care, focusing on individuals with disabilities and chronic health conditions, helping them maintain their health and independence at home.
OneCare Vermont is an accountable care organization that partners with healthcare providers to improve access to care for people with disabilities, focusing on chronic illness management and preventive healthcare.
Vermont Department of Health offers programs supporting individuals with disabilities, including access to public health services, mental health resources, and developmental disability services to improve overall well-being.
These organizations provide essential healthcare services to individuals with disabilities in Vermont, ensuring they receive comprehensive and inclusive care across a variety of medical needs.
Vermont Vocational Training for People with Disabilities
Central Vermont Career Center offers hands-on training in various fields, preparing individuals with disabilities for careers in areas such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades.
Vermont Adult Learning provides personalized educational and vocational training services, helping individuals with disabilities develop the skills they need for employment, including work readiness and career planning.
Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) offers programs to support individuals with disabilities in achieving employment goals, including skill-building and advocacy services to prepare for and succeed in the workplace.
Pathways Vermont provides vocational support and training for people with disabilities, focusing on mental health recovery and peer-led support to help individuals integrate into the workforce.
HireAbility Vermont focuses on providing vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities, offering job training, career counseling, and assistance with job placement.
These organizations provide valuable resources to help individuals with disabilities in Vermont access vocational training and achieve their employment goals.
Vermont Mental Health Services for People with Disabilities
Washington County Mental Health Services provides a wide array of mental health support for individuals with developmental disabilities, offering crisis services, therapy, and long-term residential care. They specialize in supporting both mental health and developmental challenges, ensuring holistic care.
Pathways Vermont focuses on innovative mental health care, offering peer-based support, community programs, and housing services for individuals experiencing mental health crises, including those with disabilities.
NAMI Vermont offers peer-led support groups and educational programs for individuals with mental health conditions and their families, with a focus on advocacy, suicide prevention, and support for those living with disabilities.
Rutland Mental Health Services provides a comprehensive range of mental health services for people with developmental disabilities, including therapy, case management, and crisis intervention services, aimed at promoting overall wellness.
Vermont Care Partners offers integrated mental health and disability services through its network of agencies, providing personalized care plans, therapy, and community support across the state.
These organizations provide essential support for individuals with disabilities who also face mental health challenges, ensuring access to critical services that promote well-being and community inclusion.
Vermont Vision Services for People with Disabilities
Vermont Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (VABVI) offers a wide range of services including mobility training, adaptive technology, and peer support to help individuals with vision impairments lead independent lives. Their services cater to both children and adults across Vermont.
University of Vermont Medical Center – Ophthalmology provides specialized eye care services, including diagnosis and treatment for conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. They offer advanced treatments, including corneal transplants and retinal surgeries.
VisionAware is a comprehensive resource for individuals new to vision loss, offering tips, guides, and tools to help people adapt to daily living with vision impairments. This service, managed by the American Printing House for the Blind, helps connect individuals to local vision rehabilitation services.
These organizations offer essential vision-related services to help individuals with disabilities maintain independence and improve their quality of life.
Vermont Hearing Services for People with Disabilities
Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) offers a range of services, including assistance with accessing hearing aids and advocacy for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, helping them navigate disability-related challenges.
Help America Hear provides prescription hearing aids to individuals in financial need, ensuring that those with limited resources can access high-quality hearing aids to improve their quality of life.
Hearing Loss Association of America connects individuals with resources to secure financial assistance for hearing aids and offers support groups for people experiencing hearing loss, helping them access affordable care and rehabilitation.
These organizations ensure that individuals with hearing impairments in Vermont have access to necessary services, devices, and support to enhance their hearing abilities and overall well-being
Vermont Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities
All Brains Belong VT offers neurodiversity-affirming speech and language services, providing flexible, individualized approaches to communication challenges for individuals of all ages.
Vermont Center for Independent Living (VCIL) provides advocacy and support, including access to speech therapy services for people with disabilities, promoting communication independence and skill development.
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) serves as a national resource, offering tools to locate certified speech-language pathologists and providing guidance on speech and language disorders for individuals with disabilities.
These organizations work to ensure that individuals with speech and language difficulties in Vermont have access to the support and resources they need for effective communication.
Vermont Autism Services
Autism Speaks offers comprehensive resources for individuals with autism and their families, including early intervention, advocacy, and support services designed to help with various life stages, from childhood to adulthood.
Autism Partnership Foundation provides evidence-based autism treatment and research, focusing on developing and delivering behavioral interventions through specialized training and support for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Pathways Vermont offers community-based support services, including peer support and mental health care for individuals with autism, helping them integrate into the community through housing, education, and mental health services.
Autism Society connects individuals and families with autism-related resources, offering services such as community integration programs, educational workshops, and advocacy efforts to improve the quality of life for people with autism in Vermont.
These organizations ensure that individuals with autism and their families have access to vital services that support education, therapy, and community involvement.
Vermont Early Intervention Services
The Vermont Early Intervention Services under IDEA Part C provides essential support for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or diagnosed conditions that may lead to delays. This program offers services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language support to promote child development in their early years.
Vermont Family Network supports families of children with special needs, including early intervention services, by helping navigate available resources and providing direct assistance for developmental concerns from birth to age three.
Head Start Vermont offers developmental screenings and early learning programs for children under five, including those with developmental disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary support to prepare for school and life.
NFI Vermont provides specialized early intervention services for children facing emotional and developmental challenges, offering community-based programs to support both the child and their family.
These services are designed to help children with developmental delays reach their full potential during the critical early stages of growth.