In FY24, we served more youth with better outcomes. We served 1,811 youth across our core programs and services, which was a 22% increase over FY23. Over 79,000 (+7% vs. FY23) nights of housing were provided. An average of 216 (+6% vs. FY23) youth found a safe place to stay (in a bed paid for by Covenant House) each night. Beyond the confines of the “numbers”, our FY24 Impact Report outlines a strategic investment in the lives of individuals facing homelessness and survivors of human trafficking beyond just providing food and shelter.
More Than Food and Shelter
With a comprehensive suite of programs spanning aftercare to employment and education support through our Dove Learning Center (DLC), we are HELPING YOUTH STRENGTHEN THE resilience and skills NEEDED TO transition to long term independent living. DLC activities engaged 83% of the youth in FY24, showcasing the organization’s commitment to nurturing not just immediate needs but long-term potential. Through our overall work, especially at the DLC, our youth experienced substantial positive transformations. Key performance indicators in FY24 include
- 237 youth gaining or maintaining employment
- 62% moving to a positive living environment.
All for youth who were facing homelessness and much adversity in their young lives. In FY24, youth come into our care with diverse experiences and needs as follows:
- 31% foster care history
- 40% do not have a high school diploma or GED
- 26% survivors of domestic violence
Human Trafficking Victim Services Program
Through our work with the State of New Jersey, we provide 24/7 call center support, case management, and case coordination for survivors of human trafficking of any age and any housing status in the State of New Jersey. In this capacity, our Human Trafficking Victim Services program served 180 clients statewide in FY23. UPDATE???????
The Future
We are proud that we served more youth with better outcomes in FY24, but our work is far from over. Demand for our services continues to remain high and we continue our efforts to improve our infrastructure and our services. Recently, we unveiled the newly renovated residential rooms at the Newark Youth Engagement Center. CHNJ’s 18 month strategic efforts include our goal for “Shelter with Care,” through which we commit to creating an environment that elevates all its members.
Through unconditional love, absolute respect, and relentless support, as well as the support of the broader Covenant House New Jersey community, we continue to showcase and drive positive change in the lives of those facing homelessness and human trafficking.
