Clarification Of Changes At Gatehouse And Transitional Living Corporation

Dear Families & Friends,

In recent months, Transitional Living Corporation (TLC) and Gatehouse Academy (GA) have undergone several changes. We would like to take the opportunity to explain those changes, and to assure you that the one thing that has not changed, and will never change, is our commitment to providing the highest quality of care to your loved ones.

This letter will explain recent modifications within the organization, in hopes to alleviate any fears and/or eliminate any rumors circulating about Gatehouse Academy.

Gatehouse Academy's Extended Campus Program has experienced several location adjustments. The Extended Campus was being housed in upstate New York. The administration of TLC decided in the company's best interest to relocate the program to Tucson.

There were two specific issues that prompted us to leave New York. The first was related to new State regulations that would preclude us from utilizing the property for its initial intended use. The second issue was the challenge of managing the program, and being able to meet our staffing needs, as we are at such a great distance. As a result, we determined that we would not be able to continue in a prudent and cost effective manner. We want to ensure you that these decisions were made after ample debate and review, and ultimately done to support the health and well being of our residents, families, and staff.

Another significant change to our operations was the closing of our New Mexico operation. In early August we made the decision to relocate these programs to Arizona. Again, one of the primary reasons for the move was related to the location and the logistical challenges it presented. Additionally, we found that the nature of the properties created difficulties in delivering our programs and services, this while upholding the same level of integrity and accountability we expect from all of our campuses.

Lastly, our "Foundation Program", that was located at the Hassayampa River Ranch (HRR) was relocated to Clark Fork, Idaho. This move was a response to unforeseen issues and demands made by the Department of Behavioral Health - Arizona. After six plus years of operation on the HRR, The Behavioral Health Dep't insisted that they would not re-license the program/property because of accessibility as the seasonal monsoon season occasionally washes the road out. They deemed the property unsafe for the type of people that could need medical intervention, etc.

We want to make it clear that The State of Arizona Behavioral Health Dep't had no issue with our programs and services. Unfortunately, the issue remains the access road and the accompanying safety concerns it brings. We determined that the costs associated with resolving these concerns were prohibitive and moved the Foundation Program to Clark Fork, Idaho.

The ranch in Idaho, which has been named "Gatehouse Idaho", is a beautiful property that boasts incredible surroundings with lakes and forests, and is often referred to as "God's country". Our residents will enjoy nearby activities such as snow-boarding, skiing, motorcycle riding, fishing, hiking, water-skiing, horseback riding, and many more. The actual ranch is twenty miles from Sandpoint, Idaho (population 15,000) and serves as a safe and remote location during this very critical time.

This co-educational campus provides us with forty beds, and is ideal for our programs and services during the first ninety days of residency and recovery. Prior to transition, the Foundation Program underwent a restructuring and we have successfully made the transition to the Northwest. Transitional Living Corporation is proud to announce the opening of Gatehouse Idaho.

In closing, we hope this letter clarifies and addresses any questions and concerns that might have arisen during this very difficult time. We want to reiterate our commitment to providing the highest level of care to your loved one, and assure you that our program and services have not, and never will be compromised while a part of the Gatehouse Academy family.

I hope that this information provides answers to the questions one may have, or dispels any rumors. In the future we will be updating our website with parent and program information soon. We invite you to visit us at www.gatehouseacademy.com

If you have would like to speak with us directly regarding these issues, or anything else, please call and ask for myself or David Birchall. Our main number is 928-668-1470.

Again, on behalf of all the staff of Transitional Living Corporation and Gatehouse Academy; I would like to thank you for trusting us with your loved ones recovery.

Sincerely,

Kent Sherman
Managing Partner, Gatehouse Academy