Shepherd’s Gate is a long-term recovery program that supports women and children transforming their lives from homelessness, addiction, domestic violence, and trafficking. Since its founding in 1984, the Livermore nonprofit has served over 14,800 women and children at its campuses in Livermore and Brentwood. In addition to food, clothing, and housing, the nonprofit’s 9- to 14-month program offers wraparound services for its clients.

“Having a safe place to sleep is only the first step to breaking the cycles of abuse, addiction, and homelessness,” says Development Officer Marcie Senter. “Through the ‘whole woman’ approach, Shepherd’s Gate residents receive help for all aspects of their lives. We offer recovery, learning and career, personal case management, professional therapy, and spiritual growth.”

Some women need a structured program to regain custody of their children that are in child protective services, according to the nonprofit. In those cases, the nonprofit works closely with the different court systems in the Bay Area, in greater California, and out of state as needed. In addition to its long-term program, Shepherd’s Gate also offers an Alumni Program with case management, a career center, relapse prevention classes, career counseling, and more. The nonprofit’s new Off-Site Case Management Program, which began in the fall of 2023, helps women who cannot travel to one of its campuses. Shepherd’s Gate also provides direct outreach to homeless encampments and at community events.

“We have a full program for children so they, too, can find healing and thrive in life,” notes Senter. “We are one of the few programs for older children. The children’s program includes a full nursery for infants and an after-school program for older children, with pet and art therapy. With the help of individual donors, foundations, churches, and corporations, this program is completely free for single women and mothers who are in critical need.”

After one year, 80% of graduates from the program have permanent housing, jobs, or are in college; are active members in their church; and continue to live a sober life, according to Senter. Recently, the City of Brentwood approved the nonprofit’s plan to build transitional cottages on its Brentwood campus. The nonprofit also produces a podcast, Diary of an Overcomer, which is in its fourth season and features stories of hope and new life from clients who have built better lives after participating in the program.

There are many ways to support the nonprofit. Volunteers are welcome during its Spring Volunteer week from April 16 to April 20 at both the Livermore and Brentwood campuses. Donations are also important to the nonprofit. This year marks the 40th Anniversary of Shepherd’s Gate. To celebrate this milestone, the group has organized two fundraising events. The first is the Shepherd’s Gate 40th Anniversary Tea, which will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024 from 1 to 3 pm at Community Presbyterian Church in Danville. The second event, the Gratitude and Love Gala to celebrate 40 years of serving and loving people in need, will be held Saturday, October 26 from 5:00 to 8:30 pm at Garré Vineyard & Winery in Livermore.

For more information about Shepherd’s Gate, please visit www.shepherdsgate.org, www.facebook.com/ShepherdsGate, www.instagram.com/shepgate, or www.linkedin.com/company/shepherds-gate.