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 2023, the Haven provided:
- Shelter for 13 families in our Byrne Shelter. This includes 24 children and 23 adults.
- Food for 3,306 households with 9,315 members, (including 2,922 children).
- Community Service Coordination for 771 households (not including shelter guests), offering resources and advocacy for housing, employment, transportation, health, and more.
- Housing Navigation and Support to help 46 households move into permanent housing from shelters, hotels, and the community during the year.
- Shelter for 34 individuals in our Hixon Adult Shelter.
- Children’s After-School and Summer Programs for 22 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.
August 27, 2024
The Haven welcomes and introduces L’Tonya Johnson, MSW Licensure Candidate, as our new Director of Shelter & Community Services. L’Tonya joins us from Dartmouth Health Children’s where she served as Social Worker in the Intensive Care Nursery. L’Tonya is a [...]
August 5, 2024
The Haven is seeking feedback about the possibility of extending the newly renovated and renamed Community Food Market's hours on a weekday evening or for a few hours on Saturday. Food services is also looking for input about the food [...]
July 25, 2024
Our service coordinators do excellent work. Below is a brief conversation with community member Quiana, who, with the help of Haven service coordinators Diane and now Brie, has been able to find permanent housing, a stable job, and a safe [...]