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In immediate danger? Call 911. Thinking about suicide or in emotional crisis? Call or text 988 — free, confidential, 24/7.
First Step VT
Compassionate help navigation for Burlington, Winooski, and Vermont — one clear first step for recovery, safety, housing, and crisis support.
I need help, but I don't know where to start.
First Step VT is a compassionate help-navigation tool helping Burlington, Winooski, and Vermont residents find one clear first step for recovery, safety, housing, mental health crisis, survivor support, LGBTQ+ support, benefits/social services, support groups, and urgent community resources.
Asking for help is hard enough. Finding help should not be.
First Step VT does not replace Vermont 211, VT Helplink, 988, emergency services, treatment providers, shelters, advocates, support groups, Medicaid/benefits agencies, or social service programs. It helps people understand which trusted resource to contact first, what to say, what questions to ask, and what to do next.
Join AA, NA, SMART Recovery, LifeRing, and more — online by video, phone, or chat. No travel needed.
Choose the kind of help you need
You do not need to know the right words or the right agency. Choose the closest option — the app will guide you toward one safe, clear first step.
What makes First Step VT different?
- Help already exists, but it is often scattered across different websites, phone numbers, agencies, hotlines, and intake systems.
- First Step VT helps users choose one safe first step.
- The app provides call scripts, resource links, safety guidance, support group navigation, and a simple first-step plan.
- The app works alongside trusted services like Vermont 211, VT Helplink, 988, Howard Center, HOPE Works, Steps to End Domestic Violence, AA, NA, SMART Recovery, and local providers.
- It is a bridge, not a replacement.
Help improve First Step VT
This app is still growing. If something is confusing, missing, or helpful, your feedback can make it better.
Resource details should be verified regularly. First Step VT is a navigation and education tool only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, therapy, shelter, legal advice, crisis counseling, or emergency services.
