Runaway and homeless teens tell the story of homelessness

Homeless kids have voices that needs to be heard. Their stories are unforgettable.

Covenant House listens to each of the one million young people who have found safety in our “houses,” away from the dangers of the streets. We would like to share their words with you.

“All I was looking for was a bed. But I found a haven. Covenant House is different than other shelters. It’s like a home. There are lots of ‘parents’ here who love working here and help you fit in. This place is for us”. – Mark

“The House is filled with good young people who are just going through hard times and need support. Things may look one way, but there’s more than meets the eye.” – Eddie

“Mine was the Christmas of 1998. I was homeless and spent it in Covenant House, a homeless shelter for kids under 21. I remember looking out the windows at the homeless men and women sleeping on the street in 30 degree weather and strangely felt totally blessed to be inside, out of the cold, with food in my stomach.” – Anonymous

“[I will] never forget the kindness, generosity and acceptance that I was shown. If I can help the kids in my practice half as well as I was helped by Covenant House, I will consider myself successful.” – Joe

"God had been trying to get my attention... He started by guiding me here to Covenant House. I hadn't eaten for a week and a half... I was starving. Here I could eat. I was so cold I couldn't feel my fingers, but here I was warm." – Paul

“I was surprised at how supportive people are here. I had stayed at other shelters before. They'd give you a bed and something to eat, but nobody ever cared about me as a person. It's different here. People here really care about you.” – Aren

“I hadn't had a proper education and didn't really know how to look for a job. The people there helped me get a job – two in fact. When I went there I was scared. But the kids at Covenant House were friendly, as was the staff, and always welcoming to talk with.” – John