In 1972 The Gateway Society was formed with 6 mentally disabled children being cared for in rented premises.
	Enthusiastic support from parents and volunteers saw steady development as the demand for our services grew.
	A deed of donation from the Roodepoort Municipality enabled us to occupy a prime site in Florida Park where we could erect purpose made buildings.
	A Training Centre was established in 1976 following the passing of the Training Act. We continued to care for those children who did not qualify in terms of the Act.
	The Gateway Society has always set the pace and we pioneered many services, even if these were outside the scope of the Department of Education and Culture.
	Long term planning resulted in the purchase if a beautiful 13 hectare piece of land in 1978, in Wilgespruit, Honeydew.
	At this site The Gateway Village accepted the first residents in 1984. Since that time six additional houses and two workshops have been built to provide residential and work opportunities for mentally disabled adults over 18 years of age.
	In 1993 we started a process to dispose of our interest in the Florida Park premises and to build a new school on 3 hectares of our Wilgespruit land.
	In June 1995 the new Gateway School opened and about 18 months later we were able to build and occupy new buildings for the Nursery and Special Unit.
	A change in direction by the Department of Social Services confirms that most future development should be directed towards day care facilities.
	The cost of vehicles, drivers and running expenses are lower than building and maintenance of new residential units.
	In 1998 we responded to the need to provide a service for residents who need a higher level of care because of a lack of mobility or the need for assistance with dressing, feeding, personal hygiene or other life skills.
	A great combination of Corporate finance and stepping out in faith resulted in Phase I of the Hi-Care Centre being opened in February 1999. The unique services were snapped up and we completed Phase II in mid 2000.
	The Gateway Society is the controlling body and property owner, which also handles fund raising.
	The Gateway School receives a subsidy from the Education Department as well as salaries for teaching staff.
	The Gateway Society makes a substantial contribution to costs.
	Although The Gateway Village does not receive a direct State subsidy, many residents and day workers are able to apply for and receive a Disability Grant, which minimises the financial burden on their families or guardians.
	The Gateway Executive Committee is comprised of volunteers who assist with the prudent management of all Gateway Society affairs. Several members on the Executive have served loyally for more than 20 years.
	There are many projects waiting to be launched and we have developed a "wish list" of items which may interest donors who wish to support us.
	There are about 285 learners at the Gateway School, Nursery and Special Unit.
	At the Village we have 105 residents, including Hi-Care, and 60 day workers.
	The demand for services to the mentally disabled of all ages continues to grow.