Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation Equipment Grants

The Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation (VCTF) provides quarterly Equipment Grants to nonprofit organizations, schools, and public entities in Vermont that deliver programs aimed at the primary prevention of challenges among children ages 0–18. These programs are intended to reduce the risk of issues such as juvenile delinquency, truancy, substance abuse, and child abuse by fostering strength-based, community-centered activities. The foundation’s broader mission is to support services that affirm positive family functioning, address societal pressures that impact families, coordinate services for at-risk youth, and promote racial equity and reduction in race-based disparities. The VCTF Equipment Grant offering is designed to support tangible needs that enable the success and continuity of these programs. Eligible organizations may apply for up to $2,000 in equipment funding per grant cycle. The funding is restricted to discrete equipment purchases or replacement of essential items and may not be used for general or unrelated items. Applications may not include taxes or shipping costs. Equipment must be transferable, and specific exclusions apply, such as trampolines, overhead monkey bar climbing structures, items where children cannot be visually monitored while in use, baby walkers, and tricycles with spokes. Construction projects are also ineligible. Applications must align strictly with the format and content guidelines provided by VCTF, and only one equipment grant can be awarded per organization per fiscal year (July 1–June 30), although emergency equipment grants may be considered outside of the regular schedule. VCTF accepts applications four times annually, with deadlines on January 31, April 30, July 31, and October 31. Awards are announced the following month after each deadline. Emergency equipment grants, such as those required due to loss from fire, flooding, or theft, or due to specific equipment needs for children, are reviewed on a rolling basis. In such cases, urgency must be clearly demonstrated. All applications must be completed and submitted electronically using VCTF's application portal, where users must register and follow the online instructions. Incomplete applications or those with missing information will not be considered. Applicants are required to be in good standing with Vermont’s tax authorities and, if applicable, in regulatory compliance with the Child Development Division. Organizations that have received prior VCTF funding must also be current on all report submissions to remain eligible. If a fiscal agent is used in the application, their Tax ID, mailing address, and fiscal year timeline must be provided. Attachments will not be accepted after submission, and applicants may only apply for items totaling $2,000 or less. Funded applicants must submit a final report and equipment purchase receipts within 30 days of funding. These reporting requirements are mandatory for grant compliance and future eligibility. Questions or requests for assistance can be directed to theo@vtchildrenstrust.org or by calling 802-951-8604. The foundation is located at 95 St. Paul Street, Suite 330, Burlington, Vermont, 05401, and also provides toll-free support at 888-475-5437. VCTF encourages all prospective applicants to review the guidelines carefully and ensure alignment with the goals of primary prevention, racial equity, and community-based service delivery for youth. The grant program is designed to be accessible and responsive to Vermont-based organizations addressing tangible needs that support children’s development and family resilience.