Southeastern Vermont Community Action Inc

Too often misunderstood as daycare, sevca's head start programs are comprehensive early childhood and family development programs. They are designed to create the conditions for long-term success--not just for kids, but for entire families.what we do: early education that prepares children academically, socially, and emotionally for kindergarten through pre-school and childcare; nutritious meals and snacks to support healthy development; connections to healthcare--including dental, vision, hearing, developmental screenings, dental health, and primary care--for both children and adults; family engagement and support to connect caregivers to additional resources like housing, financial coaching, childcare, fuel assistance, weatherization, and employment support.2024 impact: 63 children served, 26,400+ nutritious meals/snacks served, 61 families engaged in services, 98% of children received dental screenings, 98% of children are up to date on immunizations.research shows that access to early education paired with family supports improves long-term academic outcomes, reduces health disparities, and builds generational stability. Sevca's approach supports not only school readiness--but life readiness.

Sevca's family services team is often the first point of conctact when crisis strikes. Our team meets people with empathy and practical tools, offering one-on-one problem-solving to meet urgent needs while planting seeds for long-term stability.what we do: prevent utility shutoffs and restore heat and electricity; stabilize housing by providing emergency rental and back rent assistance; support flood recovery and disaster response; help unhoused families and individuals move into permanent housing; community resource and food navigation.2024 impact: 337 households stabilized with housing support, 58 homeless households housed in long-term stable housing, 129 households prevented from entering homelessness, 23 families supported through flood relief and recovery.short-term assistance keeps families safe. But sevca's deeper work lies in building relationships--helping people regain footing, identify goals, and connect to broader supports like job development, financial coaching, and housing advocacy.each crisis met with care is also an opportunity to restore dignity and build resilience.

Other programs include crisis fuel, economic development programs, thrift stores, and textile recycling.