Gateway House Inc

History:

In the early 1980s, a group of concerned community leaders took notice of incidents of domestic violence across the country and decided to act locally. They founded Gateway House, now known as Gateway Domestic Violence Center, in October 1982.

Over the years Gateway’s programs have grown and so have its facilities. But one thing that has never changed is the commitment of the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and donors to make a positive impact on the fight against domestic violence in Hall County.

Our Mission:

Through crisis intervention, comprehensive support services and community collaboration, Gateway Domestic Violence Center helps create an environment for safe, healthy, self-sufficient growth and violence prevention.

Our Vision:

Gateway will meet all of the basic needs of domestic violence survivors in our community.

Our Services:

Crisis Hotline

We are available to answer your questions and provide assistance at any time. Our crisis hotline is answered 24/7, 365 days a year. The number is 770-536-5860. Or you can reach the shelter in Georgia nearest you at 1-800-33HAVEN. All calls are handled confidentially.

Shelter

Gateway offers emergency shelter for battered women and their children. Our shelter is in a confidential location in Gainesville. We also offer some transitional housing for clients moving out of our emergency shelter.

Classes and Support Groups for Women

Gateway offers programs each week. Visit our support group page to learn more.

Programs for Children

An early learning program is offered for infants and toddlers while mothers attend groups. Gateway offers innovative programs for children ages 4-11 that help children who have witnessed abuse at home. These groups teach children about safety and give them an outlet to express their fears and concerns. Teens have their own group as well, and the teen group is facilitated by one of Gateway’s contract Occupational Therapists or Counselors.

Occupational Therapy

Gateway uses Occupational Therapists to help victims of domestic violence thrive. We partner with Brenau University’s OT program. OT’s help people with the things that “occupy” their time like job skills, parenting and communication skills. OT services are available to women, teens and children.

Legal Advocacy / Protective Orders

Gateway offers assistance filing temporary protective orders. Gateway has two legal advocates housed on the fourth floor of the Hall County Courthouse. Advocates assist victims of domestic violence who are seeking a Temporary Protective Order. These advocates can be reached at (770) 531-7153 or email. Forms and additional information can be found here. 

Community Presentations and Education

Gateway knows that education is key when it comes to identifying, caring for and helping a victim of domestic violence. Our advocates are more than happy to share our mission, present information on domestic violence and share testimonials to community groups.

Gateway offers a domestic violence education curriculum to local schools. In elementary school, we teach children that “hands are not for hitting” and we also teach them what to do if there is abuse in their homes. In middle schools, we teach teens about healthy dating relationships and “red flags” for potential abuse. Upon request, we will work with high school and college groups. Our program is completely free. Request a speaker here.