The Gatehouse which has helped thousands of children, youth and adults who experienced childhood sexual abuse, recently celebrated 25 years of service in the community.
Dozens of supporters attended the June 24 celebration, which included a BBQ, on the grounds Gatehouse Child Abuse Investigation & Support Site Healing Garden, at 3101 Lake Shore Blvd. W.
“The vision of The Gatehouse and restoration of this space started with Founder Arthur Raymond Lockhart, listening to a survivor share their story,” said executive director Maria Barcelos in an e-mail.

“He (Lockhart) inspired many people with his idea to reach out to survivors of childhood sexual abuse within this community,” Barcelos said.
“The Gatehouse vision is to give all survivors a place to tell their stories, to give them back their voices, to heal their wounds, and to inspire them to see their own potential.”
The facility since opening in June 1998 has helped thousands including children, youth, and adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse.
“The Gatehouse programs save lives and foster a safe space for survivors to share in group, practice coping and grounding techniques to address stress, anxiety, nightmares, depression, and isolation that occur as a result of childhood sexual abuse,” she said.
The Gatehouse provides a comfortable, non-threatening environment to help survivors of child abuse find their voice during the investigation process. These programs help facilitate a child’s disclosure of abuse in a way that will be less traumatic by focusing on the needs of the victim and non-perpetrating family members.
It offers a variety of programs including a peer support 15-week group program for adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse.
The Gatehouse, built in the 1890s, was the original doctor’s house for the Lakeshore Psychiatric Hospital. Abandoned for over 30 years, this building holds an important history in the Lakeshore area. Through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and corporations, this abandoned historic building was completely renovated and carefully restored. A major renovation valued at over $300,000 was completed for under $30,000 because of the incredible support we received from our community.
For more information visit www.thegatehouse.org