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.
April 24, 2024
Valley News – Upper Valley winter shelters kept dozens warm and dry LEBANON — Organizers of two new emergency shelters, which kept dozens of Upper Valley residents off the streets this winter, are reflecting on the season and sorting out […]
March 29, 2024
Dear Friends of the Haven, The end of March is notable for us annually at the Haven because it concludes our fiscal year. I want to extend my deepest appreciation to all of you who made donations to the Haven […]
January 16, 2024
[Press Release] Upper Valley Haven Recognition of Vermont’s Homelessness Awareness Day on January 18 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 2024 CONTACT: Spencer Sanders, (802) 478-1806 or ssanders@uppervalleyhaven.org Upper Valley Haven Will Light and Display 337 Luminaires to Symbolize the Number […]