Catholic Charities New Hampshire

Every Child Deserves a Home

New Generation: Turning homelessness into hope for New Hampshire families

Allegra smiled as her 10-month-old son, Theon, giggled while crawling on the floor. It was a moment of peace she never thought she would experience.

Just seven months earlier, Allegra and Theon were homeless. She was scared, uncertain how she would care for the boy who meant the world to her.

Allegra grew up in the North Country, the oldest of three raised by a single mom. Her life was much like many of ours — friends, school dances and trips to the mall. After high school, she found steady work and lived a simple life.

Everything changed at 33 when addiction took hold. She lost her job, license and stability. “I was drifting through life, without a purpose,” she recalls.

When she became pregnant with Theon, she faced a choice — enter treatment or lose custody of her son. She chose treatment, spending four months with Theon in recovery. But when it ended, they had nowhere to go.

That’s when she learned about New Generation, the Catholic Charities New Hampshire (CCNH) program that provides shelter and pathways out of homelessness for mothers and children.

Things began to turn around when they moved into New Generation. With staff support, she set goals — getting her birth certificate, applying for jobs, pursuing her license and finding childcare. The biggest milestone came when she received the keys to a two-bedroom apartment.

Today, Allegra has a safe home where she can cook meals and create new memories with her sweet boy. And for the first time in his life, Theon has his own bed to sleep in.

After a long road, Allegra finally has her sense of purpose back: to be the best mother she can be for Theon. Her next goal is to go back to school and pursue a career in graphic design.

But for now, she’s grateful for her son, her home and for donors who make New Generation possible.

“If it weren’t for New Generation, I definitely would not be here now,” she shares. “It opened up so many doors for me and Theon. We are both incredibly grateful!”

You can help ensure more children like Theon never face homelessness. Visit cc-nh.org/parable to make a gift – every dollar stays right here in New Hampshire, helping your neighbors in need.

Faith in Action highlights the transformative work and mission of Catholic Charities New Hampshire. Grounded in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, we respond to those in need with programs that heal, comfort, and empower.