Care, help, & hope for families since 1987

 New Generation History                             

1987 Ruthie Ford and Sharon Fernald saw a need in the state to provide pregnant and parenting women in crisis a place to find shelter unique to their needs.  With the help of board members they purchased and converted an historic farmhouse in Greenland, NH to provide housing and an educational program for up to five women. The property consisted of a large colonial home and two barns.  New Generation became the first agency of its kind in New Hampshire.

1993 New Generation opened Second Generation Thrift Shoppe in a barn located on the property to help cover rising operating costs. The thrift shoppe collects donations of gently used clothing, household goods, and collectibles for resale, and currently generates over $50,000 in shelter operating support annually.

1997 A major addition was added to expand the home.  Housing increased to 7 women and a two-bedroom transitional apartment was added to accommodate one woman and two children for up to 18 months during difficult times.  A childcare center was also added to help meet the growing demand for affordable childcare. Next Generation Infant and Toddler Center serves 18 children (age 6 weeks to 3 years) full-time; the Licensed Plus center reserves some slots for low-income families through New Hampshire’s Title XX program.

2001  Generation Gap Furniture Barn was opened to compliment the thrift shoppe. Community donations of quality household furniture, lighting, and occasional antiques are resold to the community to provide additional operating support for the shelter.

2007 Second Generation Thrift Shoppe opened a new location in Rochester, NH.  This second shop raises operating support and increases community recycling to benefit the shelter.  

  Since its inception, New Generation has provided a safe, nurturing environment to over 345 women and been a loving home to over 240 babies. We are grateful that we were here for these women and their children, and express extreme gratitude to the many individual donors, corporations and foundations that have supported our mission throughout the years.  Without this support and the vision created over 21 years ago, all the smiles located on our baby page wouldn’t be possible.