Waterbury, VT - As of March 1, the Department for Children and Families (DCF) is pleased to announce the successful continuation of sheltering all Vermonters currently in a room and eligible for the General Assistance Emergency Housing program. This has been made possible through collaboration with hotels/motels that accepted the new negotiated rate of $80 per night.  

While a handful of hotels/motels opted not to accept the new rate, it is important to note that no Vermonter lost their room due to these negotiations. Individuals requiring relocation were moved to alternate hotels/motels within the same geographic area. As part of regular monthly procedures, the DCF Economic Services Division is seeing a natural change (rise and fall) in the population served by the General Assistance Emergency Housing Program based on program guidelines. DCF will continue offering alternative options for Vermonters needing to seek shelter at an alternate location. 

Understanding that this process moved quickly and there was a fair amount of confusion in our communities, the Economic Services Division will have extended housing center hours through the weekend. They can be reached at 1-800-775-0506 today until 6 pm, Saturday, March 2, and Sunday, March 3, between 8 am and 4 pm. VT-211 will continue to operate their after-hours call center each night until 11 pm. 

DCF appreciates everyone's understanding and cooperation as they work diligently to ensure continued support for Vermonters in need.