Gateway Family Celebrates End of School Year with a Summer Kick-off Carnival
City Partner Youth Development Initiative treated over 100 children and families working toward stable housing to an evening of fun and games
As signs of summer began to show, the families of Gateway Family had a night that looked exactly like what it was: a celebration. Organized and powered by Youth Development Incorporated (YDI) and dedicated volunteers, the End of School Year Carnival filled the evening with cotton candy, face painting, carnival games, a bounce house, a dunk tank, a shaved ice truck, and a dinner of hot dogs and hamburgers – everything a summer carnival should have.
The surprise character appearance was the highlight of the night. Children and adults alike erupted with excitement when Mickey Mouse arrived, showcasing a moment of pure, uncomplicated joy in the middle of a journey that is anything but. For families navigating homelessness and working toward housing stability, an evening like this one is a reminder that childhood doesn’t pause, and that a community that shows up with intent can make sure it doesn’t have to.
“I don’t know who is having more fun,” remarked one Gateway Family resident. “Me, or my kid!”
Gateway Family has served unhoused Albuquerque families since 2020, providing a safe, supportive place to stay while families work toward permanent housing. The program serves approximately 65 families at one time – more than 120 children at any given moment – with overnight beds, meals, onsite case management, and weekly coordinated consultations connecting families to housing, employment, schools, and early childhood services.
“These families are doing some of the hardest work imaginable – rebuilding stability while keeping their children fed, safe, and connected to school,” said Regina Tobey, Homeless Innovations Division Manager for the City’s Department of Health, Housing and Homelessness. “An evening like this one is a reminder that what we’re working toward isn’t just a roof. It’s a life where kids get to be kids.”
Annually, Gateway Family supports 544 individuals from 159 families, with more than half of those individuals being children. The facility is operated by YDI under a contract with the City’s Department of Health, Housing & Homelessness.
“Every time we create a moment like this for Gateway Family, we see what’s possible when the community leans in,” said Brittany Karnezis, Homeless Innovations Officer. “Kids who are going through incredibly hard circumstances got to spend a Saturday night laughing, playing, and connecting. That matters for the children, and it matters for the parents watching their kids light up. We’re grateful to YDI and everyone who made this night possible.”
Albuquerque Fire Rescue was on-site throughout the event, supporting the community gathering and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all attendees. The presence of first responders as community partners reflects the collaborative spirit behind the City’s approach to serving families experiencing homelessness.
Community members who want to bring more moments like this one to Albuquerque’s Gateway families can sign up to volunteer through the HHH Volunteer Program at cabq.gov/health-housing-homelessness/volunteer-and-donate/health-housing-and-homelessness-volunteer-program. Volunteers play a vital role in delivering compassionate, person-centered support to families working toward stability.
Gateway Family is part of the City of Albuquerque’s Gateway System of Care, operated in partnership with Youth Development Incorporated. For more information about the Department of Health, Housing & Homelessness and its programs, visit cabq.gov/health-housing-homelessness or call 311.