click to enlarge Courtesy of Vermont 2-1-1

MaryEllen Mendl

Vermonters in need can no longer call 2-1-1 after hours to get help accessing emergency housing or other social services following sharp cutbacks to the program.As of October 1, the previously 24-7 hotline has pared back its hours to between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. Advocates fear the cut will leave people with few options at times they need help the most.



"This is another example of the state deciding to stop providing services to some of the most vulnerable Vermonters,” said Karen Tronsgard-Scott, executive director of the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.



The move follows similar cutbacks to court programs for domestic violence victims in Lamoille and Washington counties, which Tronsgard-Scott said have been discussed for years but occurred recently with little warning.

click to enlarge Screenshot

From the vermont211.org site