In addition to our vital mission, Gateway has been recognized by the State of Missouri Children’s Division as the local entity responsible for the election of Area Representatives for both St. Louis City and County which reports to the State Foster and Adoptive Care Advisory Board which meets quarterly in Jefferson City, MO. The Board works in collaboration with the State of Missouri Children’s Division, the Office of Child Advocate and various state and local agencies.

Through various community partnerships Gateway has been able to provide new winter coats, hats and gloves, back to school supplies, travel opportunities and access to both music (instruments and instruction) and educational scholarships for children in foster care who have the potential for college preparatory work but whose progress may be impeded by economic or social circumstances.

In addition to the services provide for the children, Gateway sponsors both the Foster and Adoptive Parent Speaker’s Bureau and the Foster Youth Speaker’s Bureau, provides advocacy and peer support resources for parents caring for children with severe emotional, educational and behavioral needs.

With only the clothes on their backs, 65% of the children coming into foster care do not currently have even the minimal support required for growth and development. Several of the children have been affected not only by abuse and neglect, but by the deteriorating economic conditions in the St. Louis community.

We are active in child welfare issues, offering expertise and support of your actions on behalf of Missouri’s children.

Foster children in the Greater St. Louis area are our future leaders. They will one day shape our government, communities, families and future generations