The mission of the Vermont Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO) is to increase the self-sufficiency of Vermonters, strengthen Vermont communities, and eliminate the causes and symptoms of poverty.

Working in partnership with the private sector, community-based organizations, and other groups, OEO:

• Manages programs and grants,
• Identifies and develops resources,
• Provides training and technical assistance,
• Advocates for community-based organizations, and
• Connects communities to resources within government and the private sector.

OEO administers the $3.3 million Federal Community Services Block Grant through five Community Action Agencies that provide direct services to nearly 40,000 Vermonters, including emergency food shelves, emergency housing assistance, employment counseling and search, and health and nutrition services.