(Washington, D.C.)–Congressman Jim Langevin today announced that Pawtucket-based Gateway Healthcare, Inc., a network of nonprofit agencies that provides mental health services, has been awarded a $2 million loan by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Community Facility Direct Loan Program to purchase land and buildings in West Greenwich to house special needs children.  Langevin visited the West Greenwich site in December and vigorously pursued this funding opportunity with USDA on behalf of Gateway.

 “This federal loan will enable Gateway Health Care to meet the growing demand for specialized care needed by some young Rhode Islanders,” said Congressman Langevin.  “With the expanded services, those suffering from behavioral and emotional disorders will have additional opportunities for treatment as they work towards full participation in society.  This loan is not only an investment in mental health services, but also in the future and well-being of Rhode Island.”

Gateway will use the federal loan to purchase land and buildings in West Greenwich in which they are currently operating.  This property will serve as a transitional facility for children with severe psychiatric disorders who are progressing from hospitalization but are not yet ready to return to their homes or communities.  Gateway currently leases two buildings to operate residential counseling centers for children ages 5 to 12 with severe emotional and behavioral disorders.  The new loan will enable Gateway to expand their efforts to serve additional Rhode Island children in need.

 One of Gateway’s flagship facilities for children is the Arcadia Children’s Home located in West Greenwich.  At this licensed residential treatment facility, Gateway serves 19 children, ages 5 to 12, with severe emotional problems.  These children receive psychiatric evaluations, counseling and rehabilitation within a structured, therapeutic environment.  Arcadia Children’s Home is housed in two buildings on property currently leased by Gateway.

In support of the loan, Congressman Langevin appealed to David Tuttle, Director of the Southern New England Rural Development Office, stating:  “In order to ensure that they will continue to be able to house special needs children at this facility, Gateway is taking steps to purchase this property by attaining a low interest Community Facilities Loan through USDA’s Rural Development Department.  This loan would make it possible for Arcadia Children’s Home to continue to serve young people in the second Congressional District of Rhode Island.”  Langevin contacted USDA several times throughout the grant process to encourage approval of the loan.
 
 The USDA reports that Community Programs can make and guarantee loans to develop essential community facilities in rural areas and towns of up to 20,000 in population.  Loans and guarantees are available to public entities such as municipalities, counties, and special-purpose districts, as well as to non-profit corporations and tribal governments. 

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