460 West 41 Street, New York, NY 10036 | 212-613-0300

Mission, Vision, & Values

In 2021, over 4.2 million young people experienced homelessness of some kind. Every year, more than 5,000 of these young people lose their lives to the streets.

For over 50 years, Covenant House New York (CHNY) has been a leader in providing residential services to vulnerable homeless, runaway, and exploited youth. As the largest provider of runaway and homeless youth services in New York City, CHNY serves over 1,600 young adult ages 16-24 annually with an operating budget of over 30 million dollars. Our doors are open to all young people who need help, regardless of their race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. We facilitate our services using trauma-informed principles to help homeless youth leave the streets and achieve independence. We also advocate for systemic change through public policy while promoting awareness of critical issues related to youth homelessness.

Covenant House New York’s mission is to help each young person find safety and refuge from the dangers of living on the streets. We do this through compassion, unconditional love and absolute respect.


Our Mission and Vision are governed by 5 Basic Principles:

  • Immediacy

    Covenant House meets the basic needs of youth experiencing homelessness with a nourishing meal, a shower, clean clothes, medical attention, and a safe place to sleep.

  • Sanctuary

    Covenant House provides a safe haven from the hardships of homelessness. We create a safe setting where all youth – regardless of life experience or identity – are served without judgment.

  • Value Communication

    Covenant House leads by example, demonstrating that caring relationships are based on love, trust, respect, and honesty.

     

  • Structure

    Covenant House provides the stability and structure necessary to build a positive future.

  • Choice

    Covenant House fosters confidence by encouraging young people to believe in themselves and make informed choices for their lives.