For more than four decades, Covenant House has helped transform and save the lives of more than a million homeless, runaway and trafficked young people. We offer housing and support services to young people in need – helping over 46,000 boys and girls every year.

Coming off the streets, the young people we serve are usually disconnected from their families and other social support – kids who have endured traumatic and adverse childhood experiences. In addition to living on the streets, many have survived abusive homes, spent time in juvenile justice facilities, aged out of foster care or have been victims of human trafficking and exploitation.

How we serve

Our comprehensive program model builds a life-affirming bridge for young people by engaging youth on the street (Street Outreach), providing no-barrier, safe, short-term housing to meet their immediate needs (Crisis Care), and longer-term transitional housing (Rights of Passage) to assist those who are ready for more independent living.

Our strategic plan

Our Strategic Plan (2015-2020) – the 60 x 20 Plan – commits us to reach 60,000 youth per year by 2020 and outlines a series of innovative strategies to continue growing our international federation into a data-driven, learning organization that employs high-quality, evidence-based practices to effectively achieve – and constantly strengthen – results for and with the youth we serve.

Mission and principles

Our work is guided by a mission to serve youth with absolute respect and unconditional love... to help suffering homeless kids... and to protect and safeguard all children in need. In support of our mission, Covenant House is guided by five principles.

What we believe: Our five guiding principles

1. Immediacy – Homeless youth come to Covenant House in crisis. Immediately and without question, we meet their basic human needs – a nourishing meal, a shower, clean clothes, medical attention and a safe place away from the dangers of the street or an abusive home.
2. Sanctuary – Homeless young people arriving at our door are often frightened and mistrustful. Young men and women can grow only when they feel safe and secure. Covenant House protects them from the perils of the street and offers a critical sense of security.
3. Value communication – Lying, cheating and stealing are common survival tools on the street. We teach by example that caring relationships are based on trust, respect and honesty.
4. Structure – Homeless kids never know how they will get their next meal or where they will sleep. Covenant House provides the stability and structure necessary to build a positive future.
5. Choice – Young people often feel powerless to control their lives and fall into a self-defeating cycle of failure. Our work fosters confidence, encouraging young people to believe in themselves and make smart choices for their lives.

How we operate

Covenant House is committed to helping every young person who needs us 24/7, 365 days a year. Funding from caring people like you is the lifeline that makes these programs possible across the country. Learn how we utilize resources efficiently and meaningfully for our kids.

To learn more, click here.