Helping to create a community where people find hope and discover possibility
With the support of the Upper Valley community, the Haven assists those who are experiencing poverty to be free from hunger, to be securely housed, and to pursue a self-directed life.
Founded in 1980, the Haven provides food, temporary shelter, supportive housing, children’s after school and summer programs, community outreach, and problem solving support to those in need.
The Haven is open 365 days per year, never charges for any of its services, and serves more than 10,000 people annually.
In calendar year 2024, the Haven provided:
- Shelter for 14 families in our Byrne Shelter. This includes 24 children and 18 adults.
- Food for 3,297 households with 9,289 members, (including 2,723 children).
- Community Service Coordination for more than 500 households (not including shelter guests), offering resources and advocacy for housing, employment, transportation, health, and more.
- Housing Navigation and Support to help 72 households move into permanent housing from shelters, hotels, and the community during the year.
- Shelter for 46 individuals in our Hixon Adult Shelter.
- Children’s After-School and Summer Programs for 21 children who are, or were ever, guests in our Byrne House Family Shelter.
Our Mission
With the support of the Upper Valley community, the Haven assists those who are experiencing poverty to be free from hunger, to be securely housed, and to pursue a self-directed life.
Our Staff Values
We are a hardworking, vibrant, and agile team that navigates a complex environment of service within a culture of cooperation. We seek connection and resolve to stand together during challenges and acknowledge each other’s value. We validate feelings, honor differences, and celebrate victories. We strive to support the well-being and the personal and professional growth of our team members.
What We Do
Since 1980 the Upper Valley Haven has provided temporary shelter and educational programming for homeless families and adults as well as food to anyone in need.
Our Stories
Each person who comes in contact with the Haven—whether a former guest, staff member, volunteer or donor—has a unique story to share about what the Haven has meant to them in their life. We want to thank everyone who was brave enough to open their hearts and share their experiences with others.
September 29, 2025
“My name is Julie. I'm a mom and aspiring personal chef. I love my kids very much.” Julie lives in Claremont with her children and works with the NHEP employment program, 30 hours a week. Her significant other works 80–100 [...]
September 24, 2025
Lisa and Dan Rowell’s giving to the Haven is rooted in a deep connection to the Upper Valley. Dan grew up in Lebanon, Lisa in Claremont, and though they now live in Moultonborough, New Hampshire, they still feel tied to […]
August 21, 2025
When M&T Bank decided to support the Haven’s Shelter and Resource Center, it started with a recommendation from one of their local branch managers who had witnessed the organization’s impact in the Upper Valley firsthand. “At M&T, we work closely […]