In Vermont, the Division of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) within the Vermont Department of Health is primarily responsible for overseeing maternal and child health care services and is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of women, children, and families throughout the state. This division implements programs and policies aimed at improving the health and well-being of women, infants, children, adolescents, and families across the state.The department oversees a range of programs and collaborates with the Perinatal Quality Collaborative-Vermont (PQC-VT) to ensure high-quality maternal and newborn care statewide.
Vermont Department of Health
108 Cherry Street, P.O. Box 70
Burlington, VT 05402
Phone: 802-863-7200
Toll-Free: 800-464-4343
Fax: 802-865-7754
TTY/TDD: Dial 711 first
Email: Contact us
Hours of Operation:
Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding state holidays
For more information on maternal and child health programs in Vermont, click here.
Vermont offers a comprehensive suite of programs aimed at enhancing maternal and child health, focusing on perinatal care, breastfeeding support, home visiting services, and nutrition assistance. Below is an overview of key initiatives and resources available across the state:
Perinatal Care Programs
Perinatal Quality Collaborative Vermont (PQC-VT)
The Vermont Child Health Improvement Program (VCHIP) leads PQC-VT, a statewide initiative dedicated to improving perinatal health outcomes. The collaborative focuses on areas such as perinatal mental health, breastfeeding support, and safe sleep practices. Notably, PQC-VT has implemented programs like the Screening, Treatment, and Access for Mothers and Perinatal Partners (STAMPP) to enhance access to mental health services for pregnant and postpartum individuals.
Support Delivered: Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)
This initiative provides resources and support for individuals experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. It offers educational materials and connects families to mental health services.
Breastfeeding Support
Vermont WIC Breastfeeding Program
The Vermont Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program offers extensive breastfeeding support, including access to peer counselors, lactation consultants, and educational classes. WIC provides resources to help parents initiate and maintain breastfeeding, even when returning to work or school.
Local Breastfeeding Resources: Across Vermont, numerous local resources support breastfeeding families. These include in-person and virtual lactation consultations, support groups, and classes. Organizations such as La Leche League and various healthcare providers offer services to assist with breastfeeding challenges.
Home Visiting Programs
Strong Families Vermont Home Visiting
This program provides free, voluntary home visiting services to families from pregnancy through a child's fifth birthday. Services are delivered by nurses or trained family support professionals and cover topics like prenatal care, child development, and parenting support. The program includes two evidence-based models: Maternal Early Childhood Sustained Home-Visiting (MECSH) and Parents as Teachers (PAT).
Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program
Funded federally, the MIECHV program supports evidence-based home visiting services for at-risk families. In Vermont, MIECHV funds programs like MECSH, providing services to families across the state. In fiscal year 2021, MIECHV-funded programs in Vermont served 464 families through 3,474 home visits.
Northern New England Perinatal Quality Improvement Network (NNEPQIN)
NNEPQIN is a regional network that includes Vermont and aims to improve perinatal health through collaborative quality improvement projects, clinical guidelines, and educational conferences. The network addresses issues such as substance use disorders and perinatal mental health. Learn More
Nutrition Assistance
Vermont WIC Program
The Vermont WIC program offers nutrition assistance to eligible pregnant individuals, new parents, and young children. Services include healthy food benefits, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and referrals to healthcare and social services.
Contact Information
Vermont Department of Health
108 Cherry Street, P.O. Box 70
Burlington, VT 05402
Phone: 802-863-7200
Toll-Free: 800-464-4343
Email: Contact Us
For more information on maternal and child health programs in Vermont, visit the Vermont Department of Health Family Services page.
Vermont offers a comprehensive network of healthcare providers and support professionals to assist families during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. With a focus on personalized, patient-centered care, families across the state have access to a variety of services tailored to meet diverse needs.
Perinatal Providers
Physicians
Obstetricians (OB-GYNs) in Vermont specialize in managing both routine and high-risk pregnancies. They provide comprehensive obstetric care, offering a collaborative approach with midwives and other healthcare professionals to ensure a smooth process for the mother, baby and their family .
Nurses and Midwives
Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) and licensed midwives in Vermont focus on patient-centered care, often providing a more natural childbirth experience with minimal interventions. The University of Vermont Health Network offers midwifery services in a supportive environment . Additionally, the Vermont Midwives Association connects families with licensed midwives across the state, promoting safe and personalized birth experiences. To find a midwife around you, click here
Physician Assistants (PAs)
Physician Assistants in Vermont collaborate with doctors to provide prenatal care, routine checkups, and postpartum support, enhancing accessibility to care in both urban and rural areas. The Vermont Medical Society represents over 3,100 physicians and PAs, advocating for optimal healthcare practices across the state. Learn More
Other Perinatal Professionals
Doulas
Doulas offer non-medical emotional and physical support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. To find a doula around you, click here. Organizations like the Vermont Doula Company specialize in matching families with professional doulas suited to their needs, providing support from pre-conception through early parenting. Learn More.
Home Visitors
Programs such as Strong Families Vermont offer home visiting services to guide parents on infant care, breastfeeding, and maternal health, especially in rural areas. This initiative connects families with trained professionals to support parenting skills and child development
Behavioral Health Professionals
Specialists provide support for maternal mental health issues like postpartum depression and anxiety. The Vermont Department of Health offers resources and virtual support groups to assist parents in managing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Additionally, the Department of Mental Health provides access to the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline for confidential support.
Lactation Consultants
Certified lactation consultants assist with breastfeeding challenges and provide education and support. They offer in-hospital lactation consultations and postpartum support. Learn More
Rural and Tribal Healthcare Support
Vermont's commitment to maternal and infant health is evident in its statewide initiatives and support systems. The state has earned an "A" grade on the 2024 March of Dimes Report Card, reflecting its dedication to improving outcomes for birthing parents and babies . While Vermont does not have federally recognized tribal lands, efforts are made to ensure that all communities, including rural areas, have access to quality perinatal care. Learn More
With these comprehensive options, families across Vermont can find the care and support they need, from specialized medical providers to community-based services, ensuring a safe and healthy start for both parents and babies.
Vermont offers a variety of birthing options to accommodate families' preferences, ranging from hospital settings to home births. Below is an overview of these options, along with relevant resources:
Hospitals:
Vermont hospitals provide family-centered care with private rooms designed for labor, delivery, and recovery, ensuring a comfortable environment for families. Hospitals in the area include:
University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington): Features spacious labor and delivery suites with private baths, large soaking tubs, and scenic views, supporting various birthing choices, including water births.
Gifford Medical Center (Randolph): Home to Vermont's first hospital-based birthing center, offering midwife-led, family-centered care in a warm, personal environment.
Brattleboro Memorial Hospital: Provides integrated labor, delivery, recovery, and postpartum (LDRP) care with amenities like hydrotherapy tubs and certified lactation consultants.
Rutland Regional Medical Center: Recognized as a 2025 High Performing Hospital for Maternity Care, offering comprehensive services in a supportive setting.
Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (Bennington): Offers private birthing rooms with whirlpool tubs and accommodations for support persons, emphasizing a comfortable and safe birthing experience.
Birth Centers:
Birth centers in Vermont provide a comfortable, low-intervention setting with experienced midwives. Vermont Birth Center Coalition advocates for the expansion of birth center options in Vermont to meet the growing demand for midwifery-led, community-based care.
Home Births:
Licensed midwives in Vermont offer home birth options for families preferring a private and familiar setting. Vermont Midwives Association is a community of professional homebirth midwives committed to serving families during the childbearing year, promoting comprehensive and compassionate care.
Vermont's diverse birthing options ensure that families can choose the setting and care model that best aligns with their preferences and needs, supported by a network of dedicated professionals.
In Vermont, a variety of health insurance options are available to assist with the costs associated with pregnancy and childbirth. These include state-sponsored programs, employer-based plans, marketplace options, and community-based services. Below is a detailed overview of these resources:
1. State Plans and Programs
a. Vermont Medicaid & Dr. Dynasaur
Vermont's Medicaid program, administered through Vermont Health Connect, offers comprehensive coverage for eligible pregnant individuals. Dr. Dynasaur, a component of this program, provides health insurance for pregnant individuals and children under 19. Covered services include:
Prenatal and postpartum care
Labor and delivery services
Infant care up to one year after birth
Eligibility is determined based on income and household size. Notably, Vermont has extended postpartum Medicaid coverage to 12 months following the end of pregnancy, ensuring continuous care regardless of income changes during this period. Learn More
b. Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Vermont's CHIP is integrated with its Medicaid program through Dr. Dynasaur. While CHIP in Vermont does not provide separate coverage for pregnant individuals, Dr. Dynasaur ensures that eligible children under 19 receive comprehensive health coverage.
2. Employer-Sponsored Plans
Many employers in Vermont offer health insurance plans that include maternity and newborn care. These plans typically cover:
Prenatal visits and screenings
Ultrasounds and necessary tests
Labor and delivery services and Postpartum care
Coverage specifics, including deductibles and co-insurance, vary by plan. It's advisable to review your employer's benefits package or consult with the HR department for detailed information.
3. Health Insurance Marketplace
Through Vermont Health Connect, individuals can explore and enroll in various health insurance plans. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), all marketplace plans are required to cover maternity and newborn care as essential health benefits. These plans offer:
Comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care
Labor and delivery services and Newborn care. Learn More
Financial assistance, such as premium tax credits, may be available based on income and household size. Enrollment periods apply, but certain life events can qualify you for special enrollment.
4. Private/Individual Insurance Plans
Private health insurance plans purchased outside the marketplace may also offer maternity coverage. However, benefits can vary, so it's essential to:
Review the plan's summary of benefits
Confirm coverage for prenatal, delivery, and postpartum services
Understand out-of-pocket costs
Additionally, young adults under 26 may remain on a parent's health insurance plan if it offers dependent coverage, potentially covering maternity care. It's important to verify the specifics with the insurance provider.
5. Other Assistance Programs
a. Sliding Fee Scale Clinics
Vermont hosts several clinics offering services on a sliding fee scale based on income, ensuring access to affordable care. These clinics provide:
Prenatal and postnatal care
Routine check-ups and Health education and support
Examples include:
Pearl Street Clinic – Burlington
The Women's Health Center of Springfield
Vermont Free & Referral Clinics
These clinics aim to serve individuals regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.
b. Vermont Health Connect Assistance
For personalized assistance in navigating health insurance options, click here or call 1-855-899-9600 for guidance on enrollment and plan selection.
By exploring these options, Vermont residents can find suitable health insurance coverage to support their pregnancy and childbirth needs.
Vermont offers comprehensive legal protections and workplace accommodations for pregnant workers and new parents, ensuring they can balance work and family responsibilities effectively. Here's an overview of the key laws and programs in Vermont:
Pregnancy and Work
Protection Against Pregnancy Discrimination
Under the federal Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), employers with 15 or more employees are prohibited from discriminating against employees based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. Similarly, Vermont's Fair Employment Practices Act (FEPA) ensures that pregnant employees are treated equally in all employment aspects, including hiring, firing, pay, and promotions. Employers must provide the same accommodations to pregnant employees as they do to other employees with temporary disabilities.
Workplace Accommodations
Vermont law mandates that employers provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related conditions unless it imposes an undue hardship on the business. Accommodations may include more frequent breaks, seating, assistance with manual labor, job restructuring, or modified work schedules. Learn More
Workplace Safety for Pregnant Workers
Employers are required to maintain a safe working environment for all employees, including those who are pregnant. If a pregnant employee believes their workplace is unsafe, they can report concerns to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Taking Time Off Work
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
The federal FMLA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year for certain family and medical reasons, including:
The birth and care of a newborn child
Adoption or foster care placement of a child
Care for an immediate family member with a serious health condition
The employee's own serious health condition
Eligibility criteria include working for an employer with 50 or more employees within a 75-mile radius, having worked for the employer for at least 12 months, and having logged at least 1,250 hours in the past year.
Vermont Parental and Family Leave Act (PFLA)
Vermont's PFLA complements the federal FMLA by covering employers with 10 or more employees. It provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in a 12-month period for:
Parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child
Family leave to care for a seriously ill family member
Personal medical leave for the employee's own serious health condition
Employees are entitled to return to the same or equivalent position after their leave. Learn More
Short-Term Family Leave
In addition to the PFLA, Vermont law provides short-term family leave of up to four hours in any 30-day period (not exceeding 24 hours in a 12-month period) for:
Participating in preschool or school activities directly related to the academic advancement of the employee's child
Attending routine medical or dental appointments for the employee's child, parent, spouse, or parent-in-law
Responding to a medical emergency involving the employee's child, parent, spouse, or parent-in-law
This leave is unpaid unless the employee chooses to use accrued paid leave. Learn More
Returning to Work with a Baby
Break Time for Nursing Mothers
Under Vermont law, employers are required to provide nursing mothers with:
Reasonable time, either compensated or uncompensated, throughout the day to express breast milk for up to three years after the birth of a child
A private, non-bathroom space that is shielded from view and free from intrusion for expressing milk
These provisions align with the federal PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act, which extends similar protections. Learn More
Workplace Protections for New Parents
Equal Pay
Vermont's Equal Pay Act ensures that employees receive equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender or parental status. Employers are prohibited from paying employees differently based on these factors.
Employment Termination
Employers cannot terminate or retaliate against employees for taking protected leave under FMLA or PFLA or for requesting pregnancy-related accommodations. Such actions are considered unlawful employment practices under both federal and state laws.
Job Protection
Both FMLA and PFLA guarantee that employees can return to their same or an equivalent position after taking parental or family leave. This ensures job security for employees during significant life events.
Support for Parents in Vermont
Childcare Assistance
Vermont offers the Child Care Financial Assistance Program (CCFAP) to help eligible families with the cost of child care. The program provides subsidies based on income and family size. More information can be found on the Vermont Department for Children and Families. Learn More
Vermont Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
Vermont has initiated a voluntary Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance program, providing paid leave benefits to employees for qualifying family and medical reasons. The program is being rolled out in phases, with broader availability expected in the coming years.
Flexible Work Policies
While not mandated by law, many Vermont employers offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options, flexible scheduling, and paid parental leave, to support employees in balancing work and family responsibilities. Employees are encouraged to discuss such options with their employers.
These laws and programs in Vermont are designed to support pregnant workers and new parents, ensuring they have the necessary accommodations and protections to manage their work and family responsibilities effectively.
Breastfeeding in Vermont is supported by comprehensive laws, programs, and resources designed to ensure that parents can breastfeed their infants safely and comfortably, both at home and in public.
Legal Protections for Breastfeeding
Right to Breastfeed in Public
Vermont law (Act 117) grants individuals the right to breastfeed their children in any place of public accommodation where they are otherwise authorized to be. This means that breastfeeding is not considered indecent exposure, and individuals cannot be asked to leave or cover up while nursing in public spaces such as restaurants, stores, or parks. Learn More
Workplace Accommodations
Under Vermont law (21 V.S.A. § 305), employers are required to provide nursing employees with reasonable break time and a private space, other than a bathroom, to express breast milk for up to three years after the birth of a child. This state law extends beyond the federal PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act, which mandates such accommodations for one year postpartum. Learn More
Support for Breastfeeding Families
Vermont WIC Program
The Vermont Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program offers breastfeeding support through peer counselors, nutrition information, monthly food benefits, and access to breast pumps. WIC aims to create a positive environment that encourages and supports breastfeeding among eligible families.
La Leche League of Vermont
La Leche League (LLL) provides mother-to-mother support, encouragement, and education to assist families in breastfeeding. LLL of Massachusetts/Rhode Island/Vermont offers virtual and in-person meetings, as well as one-on-one support at no cost.
Breastfeeding Support Services
Central Vermont Medical Center – The Center for Breastfeeding
The Center for Breastfeeding at Central Vermont Medical Center offers services such as postpartum support, inpatient consultations, office visits, telephone counseling, educational materials, and coordination with obstetricians and pediatricians. They also provide donor human milk for newborns needing supplementation for medical reasons.
University of Vermont Medical Center – Mother-Baby Unit
The Mother-Baby Unit at the University of Vermont Medical Center provides lactation support services, including access to International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) and a breastfeeding warm line for questions and assistance.
Southwestern Vermont Medical Center – Women's and Children's Services
Southwestern Vermont Medical Center offers comprehensive breastfeeding support through expert lactation consultants. Their nurses are available 24/7, and breastfeeding specialists can provide assistance over the phone or through scheduled visits.
Southwestern Vermont Medical Center
Breastfeeding Education
Various organizations and medical centers in Vermont provide breastfeeding education classes and resources:
Porter Medical Center: Offers 24-hour breastfeeding support and classes.
Addison County Home Health and Hospice: Provides nurse home visits to support pregnancy, breastfeeding, and parenting.
La Leche League of Addison County: Hosts monthly support meetings for pregnant and nursing parents. To find a group around you, click here
These laws and programs aim to support breastfeeding parents in Vermont, ensuring they have the necessary resources and protections to balance work and family responsibilities while providing optimal nutrition for their infants.
In Vermont, several initiatives and resources are dedicated to promoting safe sleep practices for infants and assisting families in creating secure sleep environments. These efforts aim to reduce the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) and other sleep-related incidents.
Safe Sleep Guidelines
The Vermont Department of Health, in alignment with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recommends the following safe sleep practices for infants:
Back to Sleep: Always place babies on their backs for every sleep—naps and nighttime.
Separate Sleep Space: Use a firm mattress in a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or play yard without soft bedding, pillows, or toys.
Room Sharing: Keep the baby's sleep area in the same room where you sleep for at least the first six months, but avoid bed-sharing.
Avoid Overheating: Dress the baby in appropriate layers and maintain a comfortable room temperature. Learn More
For comprehensive guidelines and resources, click here
Free or Low-Cost Cribs
University of Vermont (UVM) Children's Hospital: In partnership with the Cribs for Kids® program, UVM Children's Hospital provides portable cribs (cribettes) to eligible families lacking a safe place for their babies to sleep. This initiative is supported by grants from the Children’s Miracle Network and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Learn More
Cribs for Kids® Program: A national initiative that collaborates with local organizations to offer safe sleep education and distribute free cribs to families in need. UVM Medical Center is a recognized partner in Vermont. To find a crib around you, click here
WIC Program
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program may also offer safe sleep education and referrals for cribs to low-income families. Learn More.
For more information on how to get free or low cost crib around you, click here
Education and Support
Vermont offers various educational resources and support services to promote safe sleep practices:
Vermont Infant Safe Sleep Campaign: Launched by the Vermont Department of Health, this campaign provides evidence-based materials, including brochures and flyers, to educate caregivers about safe sleep environments. Learn More
Safe Sleep Toolkit: Developed by the University of Vermont Health Network, this toolkit includes guidelines, tips, and visual aids to assist parents and caregivers in creating safe sleep settings for infants. Learn More
Healthcare Provider Training: The Vermont Child Health Improvement Program (VCHIP) collaborates with birth hospitals to train nursing staff on safe sleep practices, ensuring consistent education for new parents. Learn More
By adhering to these guidelines and utilizing available resources, Vermont families can foster safe sleep environments, thereby reducing the risk of sleep-related infant deaths
Vaccinations play a crucial role in safeguarding the health of pregnant women, infants, and children in Vermont. The Vermont Department of Health offers comprehensive immunization programs to ensure accessible and affordable vaccines for all residents.
Vaccinations for Pregnant Women
Vaccinating during pregnancy protects both the mother and the baby by passing immunity to the infant. The Vermont Department of Health recommends the following vaccines for pregnant individuals:
Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Safe at any stage of pregnancy, it protects against seasonal flu.
Tdap Vaccine: Protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). It's recommended between 27–36 weeks of pregnancy to protect newborns from pertussis.
COVID-19 Vaccine: Recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals to reduce the risk of severe illness. Learn More
Vaccinations for Children
Routine childhood vaccinations protect against diseases like measles, polio, and chickenpox. Key vaccines for children include:
Hepatitis B: At birth, 1–2 months, and 6–18 months.
DTaP, Polio, MMR, and Varicella: Administered in a series throughout early childhood.
HPV Vaccine: Recommended starting at age 11–12.
The Vermont Department of Health provides detailed information on the Recommended Vaccines for Children and Teens to help parents and caregivers stay informed. Learn More
Where to Get Vaccinated or Vaccination Support
Vermont Vaccine Purchasing Program (VVPP): Vermont operates a universal vaccine purchase program, providing vaccines at no cost to providers for use by all children and adults. Patients may still be charged an immunization administration fee. Learn more at the Vermont Vaccine Purchasing Program.
Local Public Health Offices: Offer vaccines for children, pregnant women, and adults. Contact your nearest office for low-cost or free vaccinations. To find a location, click here
WIC Program: Provides nutrition education and referrals to healthcare services, including immunizations, for eligible families.
University of Vermont Medical Center: Offers comprehensive immunization services for children and adults.
By staying up-to-date with recommended vaccinations, families in Vermont can protect themselves and their communities from preventable diseases.
Vermont offers a range of housing assistance programs and resources to support pregnant women, mothers, and families in need. These initiatives aim to provide safe and stable living environments during critical times.
State and Local Housing Programs
Vermont State Housing Authority (VSHA) – Section 8 Housing Assistance Program
The Section 8 Housing Assistance Program provides rental assistance to eligible families, helping them afford safe and decent housing of their choice. This program is administered by local public housing authorities and the VSHA. Learn More
Vermont Department for Children and Families – Emergency Housing
This program offers temporary housing assistance in emergency situations. Eligibility includes individuals who have lost housing due to no fault of their own, cannot afford housing, and have experienced a catastrophic situation or have a household member who is vulnerable.
dcf.vermont.gov
Vermont 2-1-1
A free, confidential statewide information and referral service operating 24/7. Vermont 2-1-1 connects individuals to local services, including housing assistance, shelters, and transitional programs for pregnant women and families.
Emergency Shelters and Transitional Housing, Nonprofit and Community-Based Assistance
Committee on Temporary Shelter (COTS)
COTS is the largest service provider for the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless in Vermont. They offer emergency shelter, prevention assistance, support services, and transitional and permanent housing.
ANEW Place
ANEW Place operates low-barrier homeless shelters and services for adults, including short-term shelter beds and transitional housing with case management. Their Elmwood Community Shelter provides year-round shelter with on-site services and a housing-first approach.
Charter House Coalition
Located in Middlebury, Charter House Coalition offers emergency shelter and meals to individuals and families in need. They provide a safe and supportive environment for those experiencing homelessness.
Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA)
NEKCA is a nonprofit organization serving Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. They provide services such as food, housing and shelter, fuel/utility assistance, early education, parenting support, and more to help individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency.
For a list of housing and shelter assistance in Vermont , click here
Other Resources
Family Supportive Housing – Winston Prouty Center
The Family Supportive Housing program aims to reduce the incidence and duration of child and family homelessness in Vermont. It provides support services to families experiencing homelessness to help them achieve housing stability.
Vermont 2-1-1
As mentioned earlier, Vermont 2-1-1 is a valuable resource for connecting individuals to housing assistance and other support services. They offer a comprehensive searchable database of services and trained information and referral specialists provide personalized assistance by telephone. Learn More
By utilizing these programs and resources, pregnant women, mothers, and families in Vermont can access the support they need to secure safe and stable housing during critical times.
Pregnant women and mothers in Vermont have access to various food assistance programs and nutrition education services aimed at enhancing health and well-being. Here are key resources available:
Food Assistance Programs
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
The WIC program offers supplemental nutrition assistance, breastfeeding support, and nutrition education to eligible pregnant individuals, postpartum mothers, and children under five. Benefits include healthy foods, personalized nutrition counseling, and referrals to healthcare services. Eligibility requires applicants to be Vermont residents and meet income guidelines or participate in programs like 3SquaresVT (SNAP), Medicaid, or TANF. Learn More. Contact your local office or call 800-464-4343 to learn more.
3SquaresVT (SNAP)
3SquaresVT provides monthly benefits to help low-income families purchase groceries. Pregnant women and mothers can apply to ensure consistent access to nutritious foods. Eligibility is based on household income and size. Learn More.
Vermont Foodbank
The Vermont Foodbank partners with over 200 food shelves, meal sites, and organizations to provide food assistance throughout the state. They offer programs like VeggieVanGo, which delivers fresh produce to communities. Phone: Call 1-800-585-2265. To find a food Shelf around you, click here
Nutrition Education and Support
WIC Nutrition Services
WIC provides nutrition counseling tailored to individual needs, offering guidance on healthy eating during pregnancy and early childhood. Participants receive education on shopping for nutritious foods and meal planning.
Breastfeeding Support
WIC offers breastfeeding education programs, peer groups, breast pump equipment, and lactation counseling from certified specialists to assist mothers in their breastfeeding journey. Learn More
Emergency and Community Support
Vermont 2-1-1
A free, confidential statewide information and referral service operating 24/7, Vermont 2-1-1 connects individuals to local services, including food assistance programs, shelters, and other support services. Phone: Dial 2-1-1.
By utilizing these programs and resources, pregnant women and mothers in Vermont can access the necessary support to maintain a healthy diet and ensure their families' nutritional needs are met.
Pregnant women and mothers in Vermont have access to a variety of mental health and wellness resources designed to support emotional well-being during pregnancy and the postpartum period. These services aim to address challenges such as postpartum depression, anxiety, and stress, facilitating a healthy transition to parenthood.
Crisis Support
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Offers 24/7 free and confidential support for pregnant and postpartum individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Learn More
Call/Text: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Provides immediate assistance for individuals in mental health crises. Call: 988 Crisis Text Line: Offers 24/7 support via text for those in crisis, text: VT to 741741
Postpartum Support and Counseling
Postpartum Support International (PSI) – Vermont Chapter: Provides resources and support for individuals experiencing perinatal mood disorders, including connections to local support groups and trained professionals. Learn More
Howard Center – Perinatal Support Services: Offers specialized support for those dealing with maternal depression or anxiety during the perinatal period.
Therapy and Counseling Services
Strong Families Vermont Home Visiting: Provides free, flexible home visits by nurses or family support professionals to assist with parenting and mental health resources.
Nurse-Family Partnership: Connects first-time mothers with registered nurses for ongoing support throughout pregnancy and early childhood. Learn More
Public Health and Community Support Programs
Vermont Department of Mental Health – PMADs Resources: Offers information and resources on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders for both the public and providers.
Help Me Grow Vermont: Connects families to child development resources and services, including mental health support.
Support Groups and Peer Support
La Leche League of Vermont: Provides peer support for breastfeeding mothers, which can be beneficial for emotional well-being.
Mother-to-Mother Support Groups: Local community groups offer safe spaces to discuss pregnancy and postpartum challenges. Contact your local health center or WIC office for details.
Wellness and Self-Care Programs
Mindfulness and Stress Management: Local community centers and organizations offer prenatal yoga and mindfulness classes to support relaxation and emotional health.
Vermont Department of Health – Support Delivered: Provides information on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders and resources for support. Learn More
These resources aim to ensure that pregnant women and mothers in Vermont have the necessary support to maintain mental and emotional well-being during this critical period.
Vermont offers comprehensive newborn screening programs to ensure early detection and intervention for various health conditions in infants.
Vermont Newborn Bloodspot Screening Program
The Vermont Newborn Screening Program tests newborns for 35 serious health conditions shortly after birth. A small blood sample is collected from the baby's heel between 24 and 48 hours after birth to screen for rare but treatable disorders. Early detection allows for timely medical intervention, promoting better health outcomes.
Contact Information:
Program Coordinator: Sydney Williamson-White, BSN, RN
Address: 108 Cherry Street, P.O. Box 70, Burlington, VT 05402
Phone: 802-951-5180 or 800-660-4427
Fax: 802-951-1218
Email: AHS.VDHNewbornScreening@vermont.gov
Learn More, here
Vermont Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (VTEHDI) Program
The VTEHDI Program ensures that all newborns in Vermont receive hearing screenings shortly after birth. Early identification of hearing loss allows for prompt intervention, which is crucial for language and communication development. The program collaborates with hospitals, audiologists, midwives, and primary care providers to facilitate screenings and follow-up care.
Contact Information:
Address: 280 State Drive, Waterbury, VT 05671-1010
Phone: 802-951-5180
Fax: 802-951-1218
Email: AHS.VDHNewbornScreening@vermont.gov Website
Learn More here
These programs are integral to Vermont's commitment to early detection and intervention, ensuring that infants receive the necessary care for a healthy start in life.
