Find alternatives to calling the Burlington Police Department.
Typically, people call the police because they are experiencing or perceive an emergency and need immediate assistance. In order to provide the most effective alternatives to calling the police or 911, unless otherwise indicated, the resources included here are limited to those that offer immediate assistance through emergency or crisis services.
These resources may be obligated to call police in the case of an immediate risk of harm to the caller or another, child abuse, or abuse of a vulnerable adult. Where we know or suspect that a resource may work in cooperation with law enforcement or involve them beyond what is required by law, we acknowledge that in the listing.
These resources are not intended to cover all situations, only to provide the services described. If you are in danger of immediate harm and feel safe doing so, call 911.
Housing
- Committee on Temporary Housing
- Provides emergency shelter, services, and long-term housing for Vermonters who are experiencing homelessness or are marginally housed. Can access mail, hot food, and other support at Daystation. Shelter can be accessed by registering at the Daystation between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. for shelter that night. Space may be limited. Due to COVID, not accepting walk-ins at shelter location or in the evenings.
- Daystation: 95 North Ave, Burlington, VT 05451
- Daystation: (802) 862-7776
- Family shelter/after hours: (802) 864-2651 (24/7)
- https://cotsonline.org/
LGBTQ+
Coming soon.
Mental Health
- Pathways VT Support Line
- 24/7 peer-staffed warmline for Vermonters who need emotional support. Provides confidential, non-judgmental support and connection for all Vermonters over the age of 18 by phone.
- (833) VT-TALKS / (833) 888-2557 (24/7)
- https://www.pathwaysvermont.org/what-we-do/our-programs/vermont-support-line/
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault
- HOPE Works Sexual Violence Hotline
- Provides support services for survivors of sexual assault. 24-hour hotline services to provide emotional support and guidance for available steps. Can connect callers with medical care and forensic examination, and advocacy support through the reporting and court process, if desired. Can connect callers with therapy services and support groups. Provides services statewide.
- (802) 863-1236 (24/7)
- https://hopeworksvt.org/
Youth
Please note, people answering these calls may be mandatory reporters, and required to make a report to CPS or law enforcement in certain situations. Learn about local mandatory reporter laws here.
Coming soon.
Elders
- AgeWell
- Toll-free, confidential helpline is the aging resource in Vermont for information and assistance. Topics of expertise include: transportation, housing, long-term care, insurance and Medicare counseling, nutritional services, in-home care, and much more.
- 1 (800) 642-5119
- https://www.agewellvt.org/
Crime
Coming soon.
Substances
Coming soon.
Please consider using these alternatives to calling the Burlington Police Department or 911 when faced with a situation that calls for de-escalation and/or intervention.
We have tried to indicate where police or law enforcement may work with the alternative resources listed; please let us know if you have any concerns about these resources.
Reimagine public safety. Don’t call the police.