Historic San Jose Homeless Shelter Sold to Gateway to Peace LLC for $1.2 Million

By Sarah Whitmore | Staff Writer

DOUGLAS, MORGAN COUNTY, GA — One of Douglas-Morgan County's most recognizable community institutions has entered a new chapter.

After serving thousands of residents over several decades, the San Jose Homeless Shelter has officially been sold to Gateway to Peace LLC in a transaction valued at $1.2 million, according to county records finalized Monday afternoon.

Situated along the municipal boundary separating District 1 and District 2, the shelter has long served as more than a temporary refuge for individuals experiencing homelessness. For years, it has been regarded as one of the county's most important community resources, providing emergency housing, hot meals, counseling services, job-readiness programs, family reunification assistance, addiction recovery referrals, veteran outreach, and seasonal emergency shelter during periods of severe weather.

Local historians note that the shelter became especially well known for its annual "Hope for the Holidays" Community Dinner, its winter coat distribution program, and its partnerships with area churches, civic organizations, healthcare providers, and local businesses.

The shelter has also served as an emergency response center during hurricanes, ice storms, and other regional disasters, offering temporary housing to displaced families when needed.

County officials say the acquisition by Gateway to Peace LLC represents one of the largest private investments into social service infrastructure in recent years.

Although the company has not yet released a comprehensive redevelopment plan, representatives have indicated that the property will continue serving vulnerable residents while undergoing significant modernization over the coming months.

Proposed improvements are expected to include expanded transitional housing, upgraded medical and counseling facilities, workforce development classrooms, family resource centers, and enhanced security throughout the campus.

Mayor James Lockhart praised the purchase, calling it an investment in both people and the future of Douglas-Morgan County.

"For years, the San Jose Homeless Shelter has represented hope for individuals and families facing some of life's greatest hardships," Mayor Lockhart said. "I fully support Gateway to Peace LLC's investment because I believe this organization has both the vision and the commitment to transform this center into something even greater. Their plans have the potential to create a lasting impact—not only for those seeking shelter today, but for generations of residents throughout Douglas-Morgan County."

Community leaders echoed similar optimism, describing the sale as an opportunity to preserve the shelter's legacy while expanding services to meet growing regional needs.

Several neighborhood associations near the District 1 and District 2 corridor have expressed cautious optimism, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong community partnerships while ensuring the center continues serving those most in need.

Gateway to Peace LLC issued a brief written statement following the closing.

"Our mission is centered on restoring dignity, creating opportunity, and building pathways toward permanent stability. We recognize the tremendous legacy of the San Jose Homeless Shelter and are honored to continue that legacy while investing in its future."

Residents familiar with the shelter say they hope the investment will allow the organization to increase capacity without losing the compassion that has defined the facility for decades.

With renovations expected to begin later this year, county officials anticipate that many existing services will remain operational while improvements are completed in phases.

For many in Douglas-Morgan County, the San Jose Homeless Shelter has always stood as a symbol of resilience and hope. Community leaders say they are optimistic that under Gateway to Peace LLC's stewardship, the landmark institution will continue changing lives for many years to come.