Galgal

Homeless Shelters

Founded in 2008, Galgal is a 24/7 shelter providing essential humanitarian and rehabilitative services for young homeless women ages 18–26 who face high levels of risk and vulnerability. The program offers a safe, supportive environment that reduces the emotional and physical distress caused by life on the streets.

In addition to the shelter, Galgal operates a day center—active for over two decades—that provides ongoing assistance, guidance, and a sense of community for women seeking stability. Together, these two frameworks ensure that young women in Jerusalem can access help at any point in their journey, whether in crisis or in the process of rebuilding their lives.

The program is operated by ELEM in collaboration with the Jerusalem Municipality and Israel’s Ministry of Welfare.

Galgal currently operates in Jerusalem.

Galgal supports young women ages 18–26 who are homeless, at extreme risk, and disconnected from social, therapeutic, or familial support systems. Many have survived sexual abuse, violence, and exploitation and face ongoing challenges such as addiction, prostitution, hunger, and suicidality.

ELEM’s team takes a holistic, trauma-informed approach—meeting each woman where she is, addressing urgent needs, and supporting long-term rehabilitation and reintegration.

What Happens at Galgal

At Galgal, young women find a warm and stable environment that offers both immediate safety and a path forward.

The shelter provides:

Emergency sleeping arrangements, meals, and clothing
A roof and refuge for women in crisis
Individual and group mentoring
Legal guidance and rights advocacy
Referrals to medical, therapeutic, and employment services

Beyond meeting basic needs, Galgal fosters a sense of belonging. Shared meals, celebrations, and holiday gatherings create a family-like atmosphere where women feel seen, supported, and cared for—often for the first time in years.

Reaching the Margins of Israeli Society

The program serves young women from diverse backgrounds who are often invisible to mainstream society. Many struggle with homelessness, trauma, or addiction and have learned to survive in isolation. Galgal’s staff and volunteers meet them with compassion, consistency, and respect—helping each woman take the first steps toward healing and independence.

Expansion

With your support, ELEM aims to:

Continue providing comprehensive services for young homeless women at high risk
Expand rehabilitative programs tailored to individual needs
Strengthen collaborations with local authorities and community partners
Enhance outreach to identify and support more young women in distress