The Heart of Every Success at Covenant House New Jersey
We continue to improve both the quality and quantity of our services at Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ). In FY25, we reached 2,372 youth—a 31% increase over the prior year. The percentage of our residential youth who successfully transitioned to a positive living environment beyond CHNJ hit a record high of 64%.
We achieved these results even as we faced significant financial pressures—a testament to the strength and dedication of our staff, our youth, and our community of supporters.
The services we provide are essential to helping young people escape the cycle of homelessness. Through our Dove Learning Center, youth gain access to education, employment training, financial literacy, physical and mental health support, and life skills coaching. These programs are tested, refined, and proven to empower young people toward independence—but their success begins with something even more fundamental: relationships.
As Meghan Leigh, Senior Director of CHART and longtime CHNJ staff member, reminds us, authentic relationships come first. Before résumés, job searches, or housing plans, what matters most is connecting with each young person as a human being—with passions, interests, and stories that go far beyond homelessness. When trust and genuine connection are built, progress naturally follows. And just as importantly, fun and shared laughter help break down barriers and remind everyone that joy is part of healing too.
As we continue this work together, we are deeply grateful for everyone who makes it possible. Every smile shared, every youth empowered, and every life changed begins with the compassion of people like you—our CHNJ community. Your belief in our mission allows our dedicated staff to build the trust and relationships that make transformation possible.
Because of our community, more young people are finding safety, stability, and hope every day.
