The Gatehouse (DFW)

Overview

The Gatehouse is a nonprofit organization based in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, founded to provide support to women and children in overcoming hardships and achieving self-sustainability. It was established in 2015 as an initiative of projectHandUp, a Christian organization, with initial funding from the Rose Family Foundation and support from various private donors, foundations, and corporations.

History and Founding

The Gatehouse was created in response to increasing unemployment, underemployment, and other hardships faced by women in the community. Lisa Rose, the founder, began her philanthropic journey around 2012, focusing on empowering women through inspirational events and research. After identifying key needs such as financial assistance and housing, Rose raised $38 million to purchase 61 acres near DFW Airport. Despite challenges, including zoning battles, The Gatehouse opened debt-free in 2015.

Programs and Services

The organization offers two primary programs: the Career Track and the Education Track.

• Career Track: Designed for unemployed or underemployed women, this program includes legal assistance, basic healthcare, counseling, and career preparation. Residents are supported by a team of experts who help them prepare for sustainable careers.

• Education Track: Focusing on healthcare due to its potential for living wages, this program partners with local educational institutions like UT Arlington, Parker University, and Texas Woman’s University. It assists women in pursuing degrees that lead to financial independence.

Both programs require participants to live on campus, usually for up to two years, and involve stringent work and GPA requirements to ensure accountability. The Gatehouse invests approximately $35,000 annually per family, emphasizing personal responsibility and earned success over dependency on government assistance.

Campus and Facilities

Situated on 61 acres in Grapevine, the campus features 96 apartments, a general store, chapel, childcare center, playground, stocked fishing pond, and an event center capable of holding 200 people. The facilities are designed to support residents in achieving stability and focusing on personal development.

Impact

Since its inception, The Gatehouse has graduated over 700 women and children from its programs. About half of the residents come from Dallas County, with the remainder from surrounding areas. The organization's holistic approach aims to empower women by enhancing their financial, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being, allowing them to achieve long-term stability.