Youngsters find their own way to Shanti House from all over the country, or are sent by the authorities, for a long or temporarily stay until a place is found for them in a suitable framework. The home admits youth from all levels of society, from all sectors without differentiation of religion, race, sex and nationality. Between 35-45 young people aged 14-21 reside at Shanti House at any given time. The home is open to all except for drug addicts, alcoholics, sex offenders and the mentally ill.
These boys and girls have been abused physically, sexually and verbally; are orphans or were neglected by their parents; dropped out of formal therapeutic frameworks; are new immigrants and lone soldiers. For many, this is their last, and for some their first, chance for a warm and loving home before their descent into life on the streets. Since its establishment Shanti House has helped thousands of young people, who can be divided into three groups:: |
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The first category: youngsters who stay at Shanti House from 24 hours to one week. After a motivational talk with them, and discussions with their parents or caring institution, they return to their homes or framework from which they ran away. · The second category: youngsters who live at the home for a period of between one week to one month, until a permanent place can be found for them by the authorities or by Shanti House. This prevents their living rough on the streets, which could lead to sexual abuse, violence, theft, law-breaking, prostitution, drugs and alcohol. · The third category: youths living at the home for long periods of time – from one year to a few years. For them Shanti House becomes their permanent home as they have nowhere else to go and no other institution will accept them. In addition, each year Shanti House helps 120 non-resident youth who receive counseling, food, laundry services, telephone use and more.
Since 2001, a warm and cooperative relationship has developed with the Youth Protection Authority, who recognizes and understands the importance of Shanti House's unconventional and unique therapy methods, and provides 8% of its budget.
