Mission & History

Since 1972, Covenant House New York have provided emergency shelter and other services for the homeless, runaway, and high- risk youth of New York City and Covenant House is the Nation’s largest, privately funded agency that serves homeless youth, providing more beds for homeless youth than any other agency in the country. We are a pioneer in providing effective social service programs to this population.  

 

Covenant House Mission:

We who recognize God’s providence and fidelity to His people are dedicated to living out His covenant among ourselves and those children we serve, with absolute respect and unconditional love. That commitment calls us to serve suffering children of the street, and to protect and safeguard all children.  Just as Christ in His humanity is the visible sign of God’s presence among His people, so our efforts together in the covenant community are a visible sign that affects the presence of God, working through the Holy Spirit among ourselves and our kids.

Covenant House Principles:

Immediacy
Young people 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 danger of the street.

Sanctuary
The young people who come to Covenant House are often frightened and mistrustful. Covenant House protects them from the perils of the street. Young men and women can grow only when they feel safe and secure.

Value Communication
Lying, cheating, and stealing are common survival tools on the street. Covenant House teaches by example that caring relationships are based on trust, respect, and honesty.

Structure
Street kids never know how they will get their next meal or where they will sleep. Covenant House provides the stability and structure necessary for these young people to focus on building a positive future.

Choice
Young people often feel powerless to control their lives, and fall into a self-defeating cycle of failure. Covenant House encourages young people to believe in themselves and to make smart choices about their futures.