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 2025, the Haven provided:
- Shelter for 18 families in our Byrne Shelter. This includes 34 children and 27 adults.
- Food for 3,429 households with 9,724 members, (including 2,726 children).
- Community Service Coordination for more than 600 households (not including shelter guests), offering resources and advocacy for housing, employment, transportation, health, and more.
- Housing Navigation and Support to help 101 households move into permanent housing from shelters, hotels, and the community during the year.
- Shelter for 46 individuals in our Hixon Adult Shelter.
- Children’s After-School and Summer Programs for 19 children and 3 toddlers 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.
March 18, 2026
Jim Yeager does something many performers don't. He tells the room where their tips are going. He's been playing music in the Upper Valley for years. Bars, restaurants, the kinds of rooms where people come to unwind after a long [...]
March 9, 2026
On a counter inside Designer Gold in Hanover sits a simple jar. Inside it are broken chains, single earrings, worn class rings, tiny charms, and scraps of gold that would otherwise sit forgotten in a jewelry box drawer. “Everybody seems [...]
March 2, 2026
On a typical Tuesday or Thursday afternoon, Doug Maynard, an Upper Valley Haven volunteer, can be found in the Community Food Market, greeting guests, stocking shelves, and sharing a laugh when the moment feels right. He has been volunteering at [...]