Valley Youth House

In 1973, a critical need in Pennsylvania's Lehigh Valley led to the creation of Valley Youth House. It began as a single youth shelter in Bethlehem, offering a safe haven day and night for young people in crisis. This wasn't just about providing a roof; from its inception, the organization was committed to offering counseling and building a solid foundation for every individual who walked through its doors. The organization’s growth was a direct response to the evolving needs of the community. What started as one shelter expanded into a comprehensive network across 14 counties in Pennsylvania. Today, Valley Youth House provides a wide range of services, including emergency shelters, street outreach, supportive housing, and life skills training to youth experiencing homelessness, abuse, and housing insecurity. A significant milestone in its journey is the ongoing "Open Doors" endowment campaign, the most ambitious fundraising effort in its history, with a goal of $25 million to ensure long-term sustainability. This strategic initiative, coupled with substantial federal funding, such as a recent $5.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, empowers the organization to continue its critical work. After more than fifty years, Valley Youth House has impacted over 481,000 lives, evolving from a single shelter into a vital catalyst for change, demonstrating a lasting commitment to future generations.