FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 27, 2025
White River Junction, VT – The Upper Valley Haven is proud to launch the public phase of its fundraising for the Haven Shelter & Resource Center Campaign, a critical initiative to expand shelter capacity and support services for individuals experiencing homelessness in the Upper Valley. Thanks to generous grants, private donations, and community support, $8.4 million of the $9.4 million goal has already been secured. The campaign will support the property purchase, building construction and a fund for program operations over 5 years. At this time, the Haven is calling on the broader community to close the final gap and bring this essential project to life.
The Haven’s Shelter & Resource Center, planned for 608 North Main Street in White River Junction, will provide a 20-bed, low-barrier emergency shelter and a comprehensive daytime resource center. The shelter will offer an estimated 5,000 bed nights annually, enabling over 100 individuals each year to have a safe, stable place to sleep. The resource center will provide crucial services such as housing assistance, employment support, public benefits access, and connections to healthcare providers.
“It is tragic that Vermont and New Hampshire, relatively wealthy states, have rates of homelessness that are among the highest in the country. Providing additional shelter beds now will help save lives. The work of the Resource Center will provide solutions to ending homelessness for the people we serve” said Executive Director Michael Redmond.
Why Now? The Urgent Need for More Shelter & Services
The Upper Valley is experiencing unprecedented levels of homelessness, with the number of people living unsheltered having doubled since 2020. The 2024 Point-in-Time Count identified 177 unhoused individuals in the region, a number that continues to rise due to Vermont’s tightening emergency shelter eligibility and the ongoing housing crisis.
“The need for shelter and services has never been greater,” said Nancy Griffin, a Service Coordinator at the Haven. “Rising housing costs, limited mental health services, and a lack of options for vulnerable populations leave many with nowhere to turn. The Haven is one of the few places that welcomes all—but our shelter beds are full, and we don’t have the space for services during the day we want to provide. This new shelter and resource center will give people the dignity, privacy, and support they need.”
A Community Effort – Join Us in Making This Vision a Reality
With only $1 million left to raise, now is a great time to join this vital effort and stand alongside those who have already invested in expanding shelter capacity and year-round support for people experiencing housing instability.
“The success of the Haven’s Shelter and Resource Center Campaign is a testament to the compassion and generosity of our community,” said Laura Gillespie, Director of Development at the Haven. “Thanks to the incredible support of Haven donors, we will be able to provide a safe, dignified space where the most vulnerable adults in the Upper Valley can find safety, support, and a path forward. This project embodies our shared commitment to ensuring that no one in the Upper Valley is left without hope.”
How to Give
Community members can contribute in several ways:
- Make a Donation: Visit uppervalleyhaven.org/NewShelterDonate to give online.
- Make a Pledge: Contact Robin Caissie, Deputy Director of Development, at (802) 478-1810 or rcaissie@uppervalleyhaven.org to discuss multi-year pledges or non-cash gifts.
- Spread the Word: Share our campaign with friends, family, and colleagues to help us reach our goal.
For more information about the campaign, visit uppervalleyhaven.org/NewShelter or call Robin Caissie, Deputy Director of Development at 802-478-1810.
Together, we can work to ensure that no one in the Upper Valley is left without shelter and support.
About the Upper Valley Haven
For 45 years, the Upper Valley Haven has provided temporary shelter, permanent supportive housing, food, and problem solving to those in need. The Haven addresses immediate needs while empowering people to pursue a self-directed life. Open 365 days a year, the Haven never charges for its services and supports over 10,000 people annually.
