We are devastated as our brave little state is still feeling the effects of the catastrophic crisis we all experienced earlier this week. 

One of the defining truths about Vermont is that Vermonters look out for one another. We saw it during the pandemic; we saw it during Tropical Storm Irene. As we watch the updates come in from across the state, we see it again. Emergency responders, public safety officers, federal and state agencies, businesses, and volunteers come together to manage a major crisis as it unfolds. As of sunrise this morning, Vermont communities have been battered yet again from Troy to Londonderry and Woodstock, Weston, and all along the Winooski.

"This is to the disaster level. This is a complete loss here,” said Josh Allison, chief of the Weston Volunteer Fire Department in conversation with VTDigger. 

And, as always, there are already bright spots of generosity. In Windsor County, the Hartland Diner opened its doors to neighbors needing a place to shelter. Others offered trailers and stalls to rescue and shelter farm animals. Everywhere, Vermonters are helping one another in ways big and small.

The situation is evolving rapidly, but our team here at the VCF is in conversation with the Red Cross, FEMA, the state’s community action agencies, the Governor's office, and our nonprofit partners throughout the state to help coordinate a philanthropic response. We know the work will be just beginning when the water recedes.

If you’re wondering what you can do to help, we have established the VT Flood Response & Recovery Fund 2023 to coordinate and distribute support to the communities where it is most needed in the days, weeks, and months to come.

In addition to the fund at the Community Foundation, here are some additional early giving recommendations.

The American Red Cross of Northern New England is a trusted partner in the early stages of a disaster.

Community action agencies throughout the state are all addressing issues such as temporary housing, food, clothing, case management to help people access state/federal assistance, clean up, and much more:

• BROC – Community Action in Southwestern Vermont
• Capstone Community Action
• Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVOEO)
• Northeast Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA)
• Southeastern Vermont Community Action (SEVCA)

Other Useful Resources

• Vermonters should contact Vermont 211 to report flood damage and to get information on shelters for people affected by the storm and to register with FEMA and the Small Business Administration for recovery help.
• Road closure information is available from New England 511.
• Vermont Emergency Management provides flood preparedness information.