About Us
Bennington County Coalition for the Homeless provides safe shelter, food, and support services from homeless families and individuals in Bennington County. Established in 2000, BCCH is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization in Bennington, Vermont. We provide two year-round shelters for those in our community experiencing homelessness; a family shelter and a shelter for adults. We also provide Outreach Case Management for those experiencing homelessness not in our shelters. Our shelters provide more than just a bed; we offer financial literacy, budgeting, and credit repair programming along with case management and employment readiness. We believe it is essential to provide the tools necessary to maintain and sustain permanent housing that will ultimately break the cycle of homelessness.
Our Mission Statement
Bennington County Coalition for the Homeless is dedicated to collaborating, coordinating, and implementing services to the homeless population in Bennington County and promoting awareness.
Our Core Values
Treat all with compassion
Offer Support & Opportunity
Our Team
Roxanne M. Carelli - Interim Executive Director
802.440.2487 director@bcchvt.org
Ray Lucas - Property Manager
Ethan Anderson-Chapman - Case Manager
Sarah Callan - Case Manager
Jessica Luther - Motel Outreach Coordinator & Housing Navigator
Aiden Flint - Shelter Staff
Bill Shepard - Shelter Staff
Katelyn Galusha - Shelter Staff
Our Board of Directors
Naomi Parekh(PRESIDENT)
Jonathan Ryan (VICE PRESIDENT)
Ed Barbeau (TREASURER)
Each member of our Board of Directors volunteers their time to BCCH and offers a wide range of skills need to govern our agency and ensure our success.
Annual Budget
Shelter Policies & Procedures
Rules and regulations are in place to ensure the safety of guests, staff, and communities.
Employment Opportunities
Shelter Support Staff: Join our great team to provide shelter and support to those experiencing homelessness in our community. Both full-time and part-time positions are available. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply through indeed.
FAQ
Q: How many beds are available are at each shelter?
A: There are a total of 16 beds at the 966 Main Shelter. There are 9 efficiency units at the Norton House Family Shelter with a total capacity of 36 individuals.
Q: Is there a waiting list at the 966 Main Shelter?
A: 966 Main Shelter is on a first come, first basis with a rolling admission policy. This means that when you secure a bed, you are able to keep it until you have secured permanent housing, so long as the rules and regulations are followed.
Q: What is your main goal in providing the services that you do?
A: We believe in that safe, affordable housing is a fundamental human right. We believe in the housing first model. We strive to offer a stable base and support for homeless men, women, and children.
Q: What are the requirements to stay at the shelters?
A: Anyone seeking shelter at BCCH must first meet with staff in person to complete an initial intake. Beds at 966 Main Street are not reserved over the phone; we act on a first come, first serve basis. Guests must be homeless as defined by VT State standards, all guest of 966 must be 18 or older, and must be willing to work with a case manager.
Q: How long can someone stay at the shelter?
A: They goal is to secure permanent housing within a 90 period. Each length of stay is different depending on the individual’s situation. As long as someone is following rules and working hard every day on their plan of care, individuals are support on a case by case basis.
Q: What common biases does the public have about the shelter?
A: Common misconceptions are that people who are homeless are “deadbeats” and don’t want to work or just want to live off public assistance. So many people today live and work just a few paychecks away from a housing crisis. Anyone can become homeless if they lose a job or have a medical crisis without friends and/or family to fall back on. Anyone can fall into the grips of substance abuse or mental health issues just as easily and quickly as the next person regardless of background and educations. Homelessness has no face. They are veterans, children, and disabled. They may be escaping toxic or violent situations. The best way to help the homeless is to start with eliminating the stigma.
Q: Can I get food or clothing from the shelter if I am not staying there?
A: YES! The 966 Main Shelter is a place that you can drop in and grab something to eat and/or take a shower. You will also have access to our donation room that is full of season appropriate clothing, bedding, and personal care items, all of which are donated by members of our community.
Q: How can I reach someone staying at the shelter?
A: The names of residents who stay at the shelters are kept confidential. Unless there is a released signed by our guests, messages may not be left and personal phone calls will not be accepted.