Gateways Girls With Drive Program is a not for profit organization, whose primary goal is to assist young women who are presently in the foster care system, and moving towards independent living.  This program is designed to give a "jump start" on their future by helping them acquire their first vehicle.

 After many years as foster parents, and as owners of Gateways Boys and Girls, we have become aware of an increasingly discouraging pattern among young women aging out of the foster care system.  It appears that even girls who excel while "in care" often end up back in the same environment that caused them to be in care in the first place.  It is difficult, under the best of circumstances, for any young person to make it on their own, even with the help and support of family and friends.  Imagine how overwhelming it must appear to young women leaving the foster care system! In most instances, they have very little money, a limited support system, and no vehicle.  The state provides assistance with housing and secondary education, but the girls often have no means of transportation.  This is the niche that Gateways Girls With Drive Program hopes to fill.  A vehicle is essential to our young women: getting to school, food shopping, maintaining connections in the community, and especially, employment!  More importantly, it gives them the freedom and confidence to live independently, and not rely on other people or the government to be successful.

Mission Statement

To provide young women in the foster care system, who are moving towards independent living, the financial support to facilitate a smooth transition by assisting with the purchase of a used vehicle. It is the objective of this program to give qualified applicants a much needed "jump start" on their future, in the hope that this will aid them in securing a job, attending college, and maintaining family connections.

How it works

Gateways Girls With Drive Program will distribute funds (as available) to young women who have demonstrated responsible behaviors, and have shown the drive and determination to be successful and responsible adults.  Applications shall be made available to those who qualify.  One hundred percent of donations will go directly to the young women chosen.  No monies shall be used for salaries or clerical costs.  Gateways Group Home for Girls will absorb all the costs and duties associated with the day to day operations                                  

 Please send your tax-deductible donations to:

Gateways Girls With Drive Program  

1836 Tilden Rd. Galena, Mo. 65656

Questions or Comments? 417-538-4673 or   417-527-0740 and ask for Kim Longstreet

Our deepest thanks to all who      choose to help with this very worthwhile charity.                         

Sincerely, Tom and Kim Longstreet