While much has changed with COVID-19, the mission of Gateway House has not.
The Gateway Homeless Coalition is providing shelter and services for individuals and families who are homeless, while complying with federal and state mandates for cleaning and social distancing.
“There are a lot of different things that can lead clients to come to us,” said Emily Rogan, the Outreach and Engagement Coordinator for Gateway House. “A lot of people are a lost paycheck or two away from experiencing homelessness.”
A common misconception about people who rely on homeless shelters is that they have somehow brought it on themselves via drug addiction or laziness. Rogan said this is not the case and that a lot of families live on the border.
Gateway House serves over a hundred people a year and is a place that doesn’t separate families.
“A lot of times families when they first began to experience homelessness they worry about going to shelters,” said Rogan. “We are really glad that here we can offer a place where families can stay together.”
Incoming residents are offered help filling out paper work and applications for whatever they may need in assistance to help get them on their feet.
“Our goal is to get people housed in about 30-days,” she said.
That time can be less if someone already has a job or a place they are looking at living.
“Everyone who comes to us, their situation is unique,” said Rogan. “It’s not a stereotype. It’s not a one size fits all.”
Rogan said you never know what someone is going through or what has led them to need help, but that’s what they are here for, to help people.
“People who are experiencing homelessness are just like the rest of us,” said Rogan. “They’re just people.”
The Gateway Homeless Coalition serves the counties of Rowan, Morgan, Montgomery, Menifee and Bath.
For more information about them you can visit their website at: http://www.gatewayhouseky.org
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