NJBankers officially launched the Every Night Matters Campaign, a three-year partnership with Covenant House New Jersey designed to combat youth homelessness and support survivors of human trafficking across the state.
To kick off the philanthropic initiative, representatives from NJBankers and member institutions—including Spencer Savings Bank and Valley Bank—hosted a day of service at Covenant House’s Newark facility. The event was highlighted by a $10,000 donation presented to the nonprofit by the NJBankers Charitable Foundation.
The Every Night Matters Campaign centers on the mission of “depositing hope and withdrawing youth homelessness.” Over the next three years, the initiative aims to raise $317,500 to fund 2,500 nights of safe sleep, emergency shelter, and supportive services for young adults between the ages of 18 and 24.
Last year alone, nearly 2,700 young people accessed Covenant House NJ’s comprehensive programs, which extend far beyond housing to encompass job skills training, education, mental health care, and legal assistance. The nonprofit operates facilities across New Jersey, including locations in Newark, Atlantic City, Asbury Park, Elizabeth, and Montclair.
“We are honored to launch this new giving campaign in support of young people experiencing homelessness and survivors of human trafficking,” Brittany Wheeler, VP/Director of Government Affairs at NJBankers, said. “Every young person deserves a safe place to call home and access to the support and resources they need to build a brighter future. Through our partnership with Covenant House New Jersey and the generosity of our members, we are proud to help make a meaningful difference.”
Jim Low, Chief Development Officer for Covenant House New Jersey, underscored the broader impact of financial industry involvement.
“When banks come together to support young people, they do more than provide funding—they show young people they matter and that communities will walk alongside them in their journey towards positive independent living,” Low said. “We’re grateful to NJBankers and its members for helping make that possible.”
During the kickoff day of service, volunteers from NJBankers, Spencer Savings Bank, and Valley Bank worked directly with young adults in Covenant House NJ’s Dove Learning Center. Volunteers led interactive workshops focused on practical financial skills, helping residents navigate real-world budgeting for furnishing their first independent apartments.
Looking ahead, NJBankers is assembling a team to participate in Covenant House’s signature Sleep Out event, scheduled for Nov. 19–20 at MetLife Stadium. The annual event brings together advocates, corporate leaders, and community members to spend a night outdoors, listen to testimonies from current residents, and raise critical funds to end youth homelessness.
NJBankers is also encouraging additional financial institutions and local businesses to participate through corporate sponsorship opportunities as the three-year campaign builds momentum across the state.
