Our Story

The Francis Foundation was founded in 2000 as a non-profit to provide specialized clinical support for children with significant trauma history and deficits in emotional regulation skills.  Our mission quickly broadened to include individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages who had a long history of homelessness and mental health struggles that interfered with their ability to live successfully in a community setting.  

Over the years, The Francis Foundation grew its program in partnership with local community providers and the State of Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living to decrease institutionalization (from prisons and acute psychiatric hospitals) by providing home and community-based services for individuals with intense clinical needs. People lived in “flexibly designed” therapeutic home settings with regular contact with clinicians and ongoing training to create an individualized experience and person-centered care. Other services included case management, medical oversight, counseling & education, crisis support, employment support, and independent skill development in the community.

In 2022, the organization narrowed its focus from direct service to help support the more extensive care system through education and training of our clinical model.