Outreach Vans
Street Outreach
Every night across Israel, ELEM’s Outreach Vans travel through city centers, parks, and neighborhoods—meeting young people where they are, in moments when they most need connection and care.
Many of these teens live with emotional distress, family conflict, and social isolation. Some spend their nights on the streets, where they are exposed to sexual exploitation, substance abuse, and violence. In recent years, ELEM teams have seen growing concerns, including youth carrying weapons, increased abuse of over-the-counter drugs among younger teens, and rising racial violence targeting immigrants, Arabs, and foreign workers.
ELEM currently operates in Akko, Arraba, Ashdod, Baka Al-Garbia, Bat Yam, Beit Shemesh, Deir Al-Assad, Holon, Jerusalem, Kfar Kara, Lod, Modi’in-Maccabim-Re’ut, Ofakim, Petach Tikva, Ra'anana, Tur’an, Tzfat, and Um Al-Fakhem
ELEM’s Outreach Vans serve youth and young adults across Israel who are disconnected from social, educational, and family support systems.
Many are homeless or spend their nights on the streets, while others struggle with addiction, abuse, or emotional distress. Some have never sought help before; others return regularly to receive continued support.
These teens often mistrust traditional social services or feel invisible to the system. By meeting them in their own environments, ELEM removes barriers to care—offering a first step toward stability, safety, and hope.
What Happens at the Outreach Vans
At night, ELEM’s vans park in gathering places and transform into welcoming, informal spaces filled with warmth and compassion. Staff and volunteers offer hot drinks, snacks, and conversation—creating a small community right on the street. Teens can play games, listen to music, and participate in art activities, all while connecting with trained professionals who provide guidance and emotional support.
When needed, staff offer direct referrals and even transportation to housing, education, health care, employment, or legal services. The program also provides essentials such as hygiene products, contraceptives, and phone charging.
Through these simple, human connections, ELEM helps young people regain trust in adults and begin their journey toward healing and independence.
Additional Street Outreach Initiatives
“Night Birds” – operating on foot in Hod Hasharon, reaching youth in parks and public spaces.
“The Good People Project” – a national outreach effort that engages young people at trance parties and large gatherings to provide on-site assistance.
Reaching the Margins of Israeli Society
ELEM’s street outreach model is built on empathy, trust, and cultural understanding. Street teams are trained to connect with youth from all backgrounds, including:
Jewish, Arab, Druze, and Christian communities
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Ultra-Orthodox youth, including girls in closed religious environments
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Immigrants, migrants, and asylum seekers
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LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults experiencing homelessness or sexual exploitation
Each team uses culturally sensitive approaches to ensure that every young person feels seen, respected, and understood—no matter who they are or where they come from.
Expansion
With your support, ELEM aims to:
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Expand outreach to more Ultra-Orthodox and Arab communities
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Launch specialized services for young adults ages 18 and over
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Strengthen support for homeless youth and those involved in prostitution
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Develop targeted programs for girls and young women in high-risk environments