This October, we’re calling on our community to help collect new winter boots, one of the most urgently needed, yet least donated items for our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness.
We believe in the value and dignity of every human life, that housing is a fundamental human right and that emergency shelter is not the solution to homelessness.
COTS advocates for long-term solutions to end homelessness and provides emergency shelter, services, and long-term housing for people who are experiencing homelessness or are marginally housed.
Support for those experiencing homelessness from financial assistance and emergency shelter to housing navigation and long-term housing solutions.
COTS is the largest provider of housing & homelessness prevention services in Vermont. Last year we helped 1,366 people, including 317 children.
Our leadership team and Board of Directors bring a wealth of varied experience to best serve our community.
Receive personalized help for your immediate shelter, resources and support needs.
Make a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness.
We operate 95 units of transitional housing and affordable permanent housing in the Burlington and Winooski areas to provide vital support to individuals experiencing homelessness in the area.
Take action against homelessness in Vermont. We offer multiple ways for you to help support our mission.
Donate - Give online or by phone, mail, or EFT.
Wish List - Help fulfill the COTS wish list by donating hygiene items in person or on our Amazon Wishlist.
Alternative Giving - Hold a facebook fundraiser or purchase Cookies for Good to benefit COTS.
You can volunteer for COTS in many ways, and we appreciate all types of skills and areas of expertise. COTS volunteer needs are constantly changing, so if you’d like to stay up to date on our volunteer opportunities, we encourage you to fill out our brief volunteer application!
Stay up to date on recent happenings, events, news, and more.
People experiencing homelessness walk an average of 10 miles per day, no matter the weather. Increased risks of physical injury, poor hygiene, and inadequate footwear have been cited as contributing factors to the development of foot problems.
Our annual back-to-school event brings local families together for backpacks, school supplies, clothing, books, haircuts, family photos, community resources, food, ice cream, and plenty of fun. Thanks to our generous volunteers, donors, and community partners, children can head into the new school year feeling prepared, confident, and celebrated.
The 2026 COTS Walk has come to a close, and we are so thankful to all of you for making it happen!