Vision
Returning runaway and homeless youth to an optimal way of life by creating a supporting and guiding environment suited to their needs.
Activity
A second chance for homeless teenagers in the Negev Inaugurated in 2009, Minkoff DesertShanti is a therapeutic and rehabilitative residential village in the Negev for youngsters. In terms of risk, they are at the end of the spectrum, most with a record of light crime and delinquency. Modeled on Shanti House in Tel Aviv, the Village offers residents the close therapeutic help they need to recover from past trauma, abuse and neglect so that they can reclaim their place in mainstream society. Matanel’s partnership contributed to providing a warm home for 48 boys and girls aged 14-21, possibly their last resort before deterioration to a life on the streets. Every young person arriving at Desert Shanti receives individual attention and therapy adapted to his or her needs. The youth help to operate the village, and take part in therapy groups, workshops, Alternative treatments, art and music activities, hikes in the desert, and biblical studies. They are encouraged to study in special frameworks, such as external schooling or vocational courses, and are assisted in finding employment.