VCAP seeks $15.8M for Vermont homelessness prevention services in FY26 budget

The Vermont Joint Public Hearing on the FY26 Budget held on February 13, 2025, focused on critical funding requests aimed at addressing homelessness, domestic violence, and food security in the state. Various organizations presented their needs, highlighting the urgency of support for vulnerable populations.

The Vermont Community Action Partnership (VCAP) requested $15.8 million in HOP grant funding, a $6 million increase from the previous year. This funding is intended to enhance homelessness prevention services statewide. VCAP emphasized that investing in these services is a cost-effective strategy to combat the homelessness crisis by helping individuals retain their housing and reducing reliance on emergency services. Their proposal includes $2.4 million for a rapid rehousing initiative aimed at families with young children and $1.2 million for statewide case management positions.

Kim Fitzgerald, CEO of Cathedral Square, also addressed the housing crisis, noting the significant demand for affordable housing. She urged support for the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board (VHCB), requesting an additional $40 million to meet the growing need for affordable housing solutions.

Mary Hayden from the Vermont Association of Area Agencies on Aging advocated for increased funding for Meals on Wheels, seeking an additional $2 million to enhance nutrition services for seniors. She also highlighted the need for more support for caregivers through the Dementia Respite Grant.

The Vermont Network, representing organizations that assist survivors of domestic violence, reported a funding shortfall in their special fund, which has remained flat for 15 years. They requested an initial investment of $1.2 million to support essential services and a contingency fund to safeguard against potential federal funding cuts.

Additionally, the Vermont Food Security Roadmap Coalition called for a $5 million investment in the Vermont Food Bank and other initiatives to ensure food security for all Vermonters.

The meeting underscored the pressing need for comprehensive funding to address homelessness, domestic violence, and food insecurity in Vermont, with various organizations advocating for increased support to improve the lives of vulnerable residents. The discussions set the stage for further legislative action as the state prepares its budget for the upcoming fiscal year.