This work is devoted to the analysis of the problems facing small towns in Russia – the causes of the crisis state in which most of them are. The analysis is carried out on a specific example - the Safonovsky urban settlement of the Smolensk region. Based on the analysis, a matrix of problems has been compiled and the basic principles of the strategy for overcoming depressive state and directing local community on the way of development have been determined. At the next stage, the structure of the anti-crisis program is discussed, and also a brief description of its main sections is given. The final part of the article analyzes the problems that which will accompany the implementation of anti-crisis measures. This analysis is based on the personal experience of the author, a deputy of the Council of Deputies of the Safonovsky urban settlement, when trying to introduce elements of the anti-crisis program in the city of Safonovo. Conclusions complete the work, among which the main one is the statement of the key condition for the beginning of anti-crisis measures to overcome depressive state of a small town.