Pathways Vermont is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that supports people to live and thrive in the community at times in their lives when they are most distressed: when they are struggling with thoughts of suicide, are experiencing homelessness, incarceration, institutionalization, mental health struggles or substance use challenges. Pathways Vermont is the first and largest Housing First organization in Vermont, providing permanent housing without requirements or barriers. This evidence based model has been proven to be the most successful approach to ending and preventing homelessness. Through our Housing First programs, we serve people struggling with mental health and substance abuse issues, as well as veterans, families, and people coming out of correctional facilities and other institutions. We use a peer-supported alternative approach to mental health in which individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges guide and aid those experiencing similar challenges. From our Community Center that provides peer support in a friendly setting, to our Soteria House which supports people experiencing mental health crises for the first time, to our 7 days/week, non-judgemental phone Support Line, our programs have an immeasurable impact on the everyday lives of our neighbors in need. Since our inception in 2010, Pathways Vermont has succeeded in:
Housing more than 500 individuals, including 180 children
Helping 75 people find employment
Completing 28,842 supportive phone conversations
Preventing 1,122 instances of use of emergency services