Matthew Buffin
I wanted to pass on my sincere thanks on behalf of Matthew Buffin following his attendance at Fire Camp from 13th–19th April 2026, which was made possible through the funding support from Gateway.
Matthew asked me to share his deep gratitude. He expressed that he cannot thank Gateway enough for the opportunity, as the week had a significant impact on his faith and personal development. He shared that the experience brought him closer to God, reignited a passion for evangelism, and helped him recognise both the importance and urgency of reaching others with the message of Christ.
During the camp, Matthew engaged in structured morning devotionals, which helped him learn how to spend intentional time with God and better recognise his voice. He found this particularly valuable and something he intends to continue building into his daily life.
He also spoke very highly of the teaching and leadership throughout the week, particularly highlighting David Chambers, who led several impactful sessions. The evening worship gatherings were especially meaningful for, he described a strong sense of God’s presence and love, which he found deeply moving and transformative.
Overall, Matthew returned uplifted, encouraged, and spiritually strengthened. He is extremely thankful for the investment made into him through Gateway’s support.’
Thank you again for making this possible.
Nina Corrigan
Growing up, I was in and out of care and was expelled from school at the age of 15. That was when my addiction began, and it became a slippery slope from there.
I had no real purpose in life, which meant I fell deeper into depression and drug use. That resulted in me losing my children, self-worth, dignity, and freedom, ending up in prison. It was there that I gave my life to Jesus in 2013.
He then led me to rehab for the first time in 2015. I was ‘Ferrel’ and struggled to accept that I was loved and chosen. Over the past 10 years, God has guided me on an incredible journey of healing and restoration, where I now experience complete, genuine freedom and purpose.
I finished the Hope Centre program in January this year, and since then, God has opened many doors in my life. I have been accepted onto a Christian Counselling Degree starting in September, and my relationship with my children has now been restored. The next step was learning to drive so I could visit them and commute to college.
I applied to Gateway for help in securing funds to complete an intensive driving course. They were able to help fund this, and within 2 months, I have passed my driving test! I thank God for this charity and the work they do! Without their help, I would not have been financially able to pass in time for the start of the term in September. Thank you Gateway! Nina Corrigan
EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT ACROSS THE WEST MIDLANDS & SOUTH WALES
Here at The Gateway Foundation we aim to make positive changes to lives affected by addiction, through a range of support services. Education, for former offenders and those that are recovering from addiction within local communities, is at the heart of what we do. We will oversee the implementation, advancement, and growth of meaningful support services, leading to self-fulfilment/self-sustaining employment or volunteering.
Get in touch with us today, we will be more than happy to answer any queries you may have.
Aiden Thomas
My name is Aiden Thomas, and I’m proud to share my journey.
I was a staff member at the Hope Centre and would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the Gateway Foundation for their incredible support in helping me with my driving lessons.
Without their assistance, I couldn’t have afforded them on my own. Now, having passed my driving test and being on the verge of buying my first car, I feel a renewed sense of purpose and see new doors opening in my life.
This milestone is proof that hard work truly pays off. Coming from a background of addiction, I am now three years clean and fully focused on building a brighter future. I want to extend my gratitude to Gateway, for their unwavering support during the challenging moments when finishing felt so far away.
Thanks to their efforts, I now hold a full driving license, have a solid plan for my future, and am filled with ambition for what lies ahead. Gateway and everyone connected to it have restored my faith in the kindness of others and shown me that there are people who genuinely want to help make dreams a reality.
Thank you all for being a part of this life-changing journey.
