Children with Special Health Needs (CSHN) is a free public health program that supports Vermont children and youth by promoting comprehensive, culturally responsive, and family-centered services.
We support children with complex, chronic health conditions, and special health needs from birth to age 21. Our team of social workers, nurses, and public health professionals work directly with communities, providers, and families. We're here to help!
The system of care for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs can be complicated. Check out our digital guide for families and community partners to learn about regional and statewide resources and services.
Video instructions on how to use the CSHN GIS Resource Map can be found at Vermont Family Network's Disability Workshops webpages.
What is Disabled Children's Home Care? Fact Sheet
Disabled Children's Home Care (DCHC) - Katie Beckett Completing the Application Fact Sheet
Eye Patches for Your Child and Medicaid Coverage Fact Sheet
Non-Emergent Medical Transportation
Writing a Letter of Medical Necessity for Supplements Not on the VT Medicaid Covered List
Incontinence Supplies from Medicaid
Wheelchair Assessment Fact Sheet
Eye Patches for Your Child and Medicaid Coverage Fact Sheet
Resources & Services Before or After an Autism Evaluation
My Child is waiting for an Autism Evaluation Frequently Asked Questions
Incontinence Supplies from Medicaid
Writing a Letter of Medical Necessity for Supplements Not on the VT Medicaid Covered List
CSHN sends out a newsletter every other month to providers, coordinators, and community partners who share in our work supporting Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs. The newsletter focuses on statewide and local resources for coordinators and families, highlighting programming and community partners, and sharing relevant policy changes.
Let us know if you would like to be added to the recipient list! Below are recent editions of the newsletter.
| Date | Topic | Description |
|---|---|---|
| July 2026 | CSHN Nutrition Program, Vermont Libraries, Summer Resources, Policy Updates, Vermont Summer Happenings. | Learn about CSHN Nutrition Services, the Vermont Libraries Special Needs Services, tips about inclusive summer gardening, accessible playgrounds & accessible beach access, events happening around the state, and policy updates. |
| May 2026 | CSHN High-Tech Nursing, Hunger Free Vermont, CSHN GIS Resource Map, Summer Resources, Policy Updates. | Summer issue with info about food sources, summer safety and the CSHN GIS Resource Map for finding resources throughout Vermont. Program highlight: CSHN High-Tech Nursing. Many new policies listed. |
| March 2026 | Children's Personal Care Services, Aris Solutions, PCG. | CSHN's Children's Personal Care Services, Aris Solutions, PCG DDSD changes, surveys or engagement for families from partner organizations. |
| January 2026 | Family Partners join CSHN Connections team, Family Partners. | Family Partners join CSHN Connections team. CSHN Family Partners work, school nurses, vaccine guidance, winter fun. |
| November 2025 | Food and nutrition issue. | Food programs and resources, Pediatric Feeding Disorder, Vermont FoodBank, Vermont 211, other food related programs. |
| September 2025 | CSHN and Coordinated Service Plans, Act 264, Autism resources. | Coordinated Service Plans, Act 264, Autism resources, several new or updated policies. |
We are always looking to expand and improve our Fact Sheet resources. If you have ideas and would like to share thoughts and feedback, please feel free to email: [email protected].
*Translation of documents are available upon request.
Children with Special Health Needs
Vermont Department of Health
280 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-8360
Tel: 800-660-4427 or 802-863-7338
Fax: 802-863-7635
Email: [email protected]
Accessibity: If you need help accessing or understanding this information please contact us at [email protected] or 802-863-7338.
