Accessing Vermont’s Public Housing and Affordable Housing Programs

Vermont offers a range of public and affordable housing programs designed to assist low- and moderate-income residents in securing safe and affordable housing. These programs are administered by various state agencies, local housing authorities, and nonprofit organizations.

Vermont State Housing Authority (VSHA)

The Vermont State Housing Authority has been providing housing assistance in Vermont for over 50 years. VSHA administers several programs, including:

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Assists eligible individuals and families in affording rental housing in the private market.
  • Managed Housing: Manages affordable housing properties across the state.
  • Mobile Home Infill Program (MHIP): Offers below-market-rate homes to eligible buyers.
  • Eviction Prevention Program: Provides assistance to prevent evictions and maintain housing stability.

    • Contact Information:

  • Main Office:

    • – Address: One Prospect Street, Montpelier, VT 05602-3556
    – Phone: (802) 828-3295
    – Email: contact@vsha.org

  • Regional Offices:

    • – St. Albans:
    – Address: 3 Clyde Allen Drive, B7, St. Albans, VT 05478
    – Phone: (802) 527-1071
    – Middlebury:
    – Address: 249 Buttolph Drive, Middlebury, VT 05753
    – Phone: (802) 388-1005
    – White River Junction:
    – Address: 95 Templeton Avenue, White River Junction, VT 05001
    – Phone: (802) 295-8883

    (vsha.org)

    Local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs)

    Vermont has several local PHAs that manage public housing and Housing Choice Voucher programs. Here are some of them:

  • Barre Housing Authority:

    • – Address: 30 Washington Street, Barre, VT 05641
    – Phone: (802) 476-3185
    – Email: jaime@barrehousing.org

  • Bennington Housing Authority:

    • – Address: 22 Willowbrook Drive, Bennington, VT 05201
    – Phone: (802) 442-8000
    – Email: lindsay.vajda@benningtonhousing.net

  • Brattleboro Housing Authority:

    • – Address: 224 Melrose Street, Brattleboro, VT 05301
    – Phone: (802) 254-6071
    – Email: bhp@brattleborohousing.org

  • Burlington Housing Authority:

    • – Address: 65 Main Street, Suite 101, Burlington, VT 05401
    – Phone: (802) 864-0538
    – Email: smurray@burlingtonhousing.org

  • Montpelier Housing Authority:

    • – Address: Templewood Court, 155 Main Street, Montpelier, VT 05602
    – Phone: (802) 229-9232

  • Rutland Housing Authority:

    • – Address: Rutland, VT 05701
    – Phone: (802) 775-2926

  • Springfield Housing Authority:

    • – Address: 80 Main Street, Springfield, VT 05156
    – Phone: (802) 885-4905

  • Winooski Housing Authority:

    • – Address: 83 Barlow Street, Winooski, VT 05404
    – Phone: (802) 655-2360 x22

    (hud.gov)

    Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA)

    The Vermont Housing Finance Agency finances and promotes affordable housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income Vermonters. Since its inception in 1974, VHFA has helped 29,000 Vermonters and their families purchase homes and has provided development financing and support for 8,600 rental apartments.

    Contact Information:

  • Address: 164 St. Paul Street, Burlington, VT 05402
  • Phone: (802) 864-5743
  • Fax: (802) 864-5746

    • (web.vermont.org)

    Additional Resources

  • Vermont 2-1-1: A free 24/7 information and referral helpline for all types of human services needs. Dial 2-1-1 to reach a specialist who can connect you to resources for housing, food, heating fuel, mental health, or any crisis. (burlingtonvt.gov)
  • Vermont Affordable Housing Coalition (VAHC): A statewide membership coalition dedicated to ensuring all Vermonters have decent, safe, and affordable housing. VAHC engages in advocacy, education, and grassroots organizing to expand affordable housing and end homelessness. (burlingtonvt.gov)

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility for public and affordable housing programs in Vermont typically depends on factors such as income level, family size, and housing needs. To apply:

  • Contact the Relevant Housing Authority: Reach out to the local PHA or VSHA office serving your area.
  • Complete an Application: Applications can often be completed online or in person.
  • Provide Necessary Documentation: Be prepared to submit documents verifying income, family composition, and other relevant information.
  • Await Notification: After applying, you will be notified about your eligibility and any next steps.

    • Conclusion

    Vermont offers a variety of resources to assist residents in accessing public and affordable housing. By contacting the appropriate agencies and understanding the application process, individuals and families can find the support they need to secure stable housing.

    (hud.gov)