Transitional Living Center (TLC)
Residential Intake Process
Step 1: IDENTIFY HER ELIGIBILITY
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Is she a biological female?
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Is she over 18?
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Is she comfortable with a faith-based program?
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Does she have a driver's license or is she able to obtain a driver's license?
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If relocating from another state, Is She legally permitted to relocate?
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Is she comfortable with locating in rural Iowa?
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Has she ever experienced sexual exploitation? For example, was she ever required to have sex to meet her needs or in exchange for something of value (money, food, shelter/housing, substances, gifts, and/or favors)? Did someone threaten to harm her, or her family or someone else if she did not preform sexual acts?
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Has she been in crisis stabilization for 30 to 90 days?
*Please note that we are not able to serve anyone that suffers from seizures or has an epilepsy diagnosis*
Step 2: EDUCATE YOUR REFERRAL
Is she ready to be empowered and discover her strengths?
We are a sober-living program offering a fresh start in life. To keep our campus healthy and safe for everyone, we maintain a non‑smoking environment. This includes cigarettes, vapes, and all forms of smoking devices. Our program will assist her in meeting her physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual needs. She needs to be willing to let go of old, unhealthy relationships in order to rebuild herself up. She also needs to be willing to let go of social media and internet use while she is in early recovery phases. Here are a few important tips to share:
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This is a program based on empowerment and taking responsibility for herself.
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This program has specific activities, a schedule, and phases of progression that will move her toward health and self-sufficiency.
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The house requires shared spaces and shared chores.
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She must be willing to be sociable and build healthy relationships.
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She will be expected to participate in counseling, house meetings, vocational training, and other varied program activities.
Step 3: COMPLETE THE CLIENT APPLICATION FORM
After receiving the application, our staff will complete an agency‑to‑agency assessment with you. This collaborative process helps us gather insight from your team and confirm that our program is an appropriate and supportive fit.
Next, your referral will need to be available for a phone or virtual interview. Complete the application by following the button labeled apply now listed below.
A follow-up call will be made by our agency to discuss or program in more detail and address your questions.
Step 4: PREPARE TO BRING HER HOME TO GARDEN GATE RANCH
In preparation for the intake process, please make every effort to collect the following background documents:
Any discharge papers from hospital, detox, rehab, or psychiatric programs
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Any legal documents, outstanding financial obligations, important contacts
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Recent drug/alcohol test (within the last 2 weeks)
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Recent medical tests/Medical records
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Identification
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Insurance documents
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Parole or probation reporting requirements
For the most successful transition, we ask that a transfer date be set after the client’s initial appointments are completed and her medications have been filled. This allows our team to begin care with everything in order.
We will work with her to arrange her transportation to our facility. Upon arrival, we will complete all intake paperwork for the residential program.
Our Program
1
Reflect Phase (First 30 Days)
The reflect phase provides 30 days of stabilization, rest, and clarity. During this time, survivors have space to pause, breathe, and reflect on their next steps. Professionals complete a comprehensive assessment of physical, emotional, mental, educational, and relational needs to ensure each woman is fully supported and her desired pathway is being prepared for the journey ahead. This is a time that she reflects to determine if she is ready, committed, and prepared for the new life Garden Gate Ranch has to offer.
2
Readiness Phase (30-90 Days)
The readiness phase equips women with the foundational tools needed for long-term healing, stability, and independence. During these 60 days, the focus is on workforce development, life-skills training, and holistic care, helping residents gain the confidence and capability to thrive beyond their past. Residents receive individualized support that meets their unique needs and goals, beginning with personalized education planning and access to comprehensive medical and mental-health care. Through trauma-informed therapy and counseling, women gain space to heal while building the emotional tools needed for long-term stability. Workforce development and job-placement services help each resident prepare for meaningful employment, supported by ongoing case management and guidance in obtaining a state driver’s license. Restorative services and healthy relationship-building further strengthen each woman’s confidence and foundation for a thriving, independent future. This phase strengthens each woman’s stability, confidence, and readiness for independent living.
3
Relaunch Phase (Up to 2 Years)
The Relaunch Phase can last up to two years; women receive comprehensive support designed to strengthen their stability and independence. This includes career development and goal-setting, financial literacy and budgeting, and essential life-skills training such as housekeeping, food planning, and parenting. Residents benefit from childcare assistance, help obtaining a vehicle, and access to community resources that expand their support network. Educational opportunities, ranging from GED preparation to post-secondary and vocational training, this equips each woman for long-term success, while job-attainment services provide career counseling and job placement. Continued mentorship, community connection, and future housing planning ensure every woman is prepared for a confident and successful transition into independent living.
"When I got pregnant, I didn't know what to do and I didn't want to believe it. I felt so lost and alone. When I found out I got accepted here, I felt so relieved. When there was no hope, they gave me hope. I feel important for the first time in years!"
- A TRANSITIONAL LIVING CENTER RESIDENT
TRANSITIONAL LIVING CENTER (TLC)
WHO WE SERVE
Sexually-exploited biological women 18+, single, pregnant or with young children.
HOW WE SERVE
Offer personalized, strength-based, trauma-informed services and programming through a blend of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual care.
SERVICES WE OFFER
Provide holistic support through a variety of therapies and programming in key areas such as safety, sobriety, trauma, self-care, spirituality, and relationships.
THE TLC PROGRAM'S 3 PHASES
PHASE 1
During the intitial Reflect Phase, we complete a thorough assessment of each women's needs, strength's and goals thus ensuring her program experience is taylored to her unique journey
PHASE 2
During the Readiness Phase we help the women build the foundation for education, workforce development, life-skills training and holistic care.
PHASE 3
The final stage our Relaunch Phase, we support survivors as they transition towards independence.
