Youngsters find their own way to Shanti House from all over the country or are sent by the authorities for a long stay, or temporarily 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 between religion, race, sex and nationality. Between 35-45 youngsters 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; new immigrants and lone soldiers. For many of these youngsters, 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 youngsters, who can be divided into three categories: THE FIRST CATEGORY youth who stay at Shanti House from between 24 hours to one week. After a motivating talk with them and discussions with their parents or caring institution, these youngsters return to their homes/framework from which they ran away. THE SECOND CATEGORY youth who live at Shanti House 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. Their stay prevents their living rough on the streets, that could lead them to sexual abuse, violence, involvement in fights, theft, law-breaking, prostitution, drugs and alcohol. THE THIRD CATEGORY youth living at Shanti House for long periods of time from one year to a few years. For these youngsters Shanti House becomes their 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 youngsters who receive counseling, food, laundry, telephone use and more. Since 2001, a warm and cooperative relationship has developed with the Youth Protection Authority, who recognize and understand the importance of Shanti House’s unconventional and unique therapies, and provide 8% of its budget