COVID-19 has significantly affected Open Gate. Rather than ceasing operation, Open Gate is operating on a take-out basis, maintaining 13 years of never failing to be open on a Sunday. This reïnforces for our young-adult participants our dedication to not fail to support them, even in difficult times. Because so many adults have failed them during their lives, one of Open Gate’s founding principles is that we would not also fail them.

Those particularly affected are our participants living on the streets, which seems to be the core group we are currently serving. They are supported with meals (plus seconds), water, hygiene packs, underwear and socks, Kroger gift cards, diapers, rest-room access, and having their temperatures taken. Since Metro stopped collecting bus and train fares, we did not distribute Metro Q bus cards until mid-July when fares resumed. We are modeling social distancing and safe practices and are giving participants face masks and hand sanitizer. Participants can also let us know if they need special assistance. Unfortunately, social distancing has stopped entrance interviews for first-time participants.