Trips and special activities are a vital part of women and children's experience at the shelter. These enjoyable activities serve as a release from the often emotionally charged atmosphere of the shelter and create a positive energy among the women and children.

These activities serve as part of the rehabilitative process, because a person who is happy and content is much more open to deep emotional therapy. Additionally, many of the women and children live in impoverished circumstances and will be even less well off after leaving the shelter – participating in these activities is often a once in a lifetime opportunity for them.

Examples of these activities include:

A jeep ride that provided an exhilarating experience for the women in the shelter. The ride began in the forest by Bet Shemesh, continued in the open fields of the Lachish region and concluded at the Nitzanim Beach. Along the way, the tour guide provided historical and biblical explanations about the area.

A Laugh Therapy course, taught professionally by a woman who volunteered her services to us, incorporated yoga and breathing exercises to teach the women how to release tension. The instructor pointed out stress points on the body and how to diminish tension within oneself. She also gave the women tools for assuaging stress when they’re by themselves and feeling anxious. The entire course was filled with laughter and was a relaxing experience for the women. At the end of the course, the children at the shelter joined the women in dancing.

A five-hour CPR course, given by a certified MDA instructor, taught both the staff and women to perform resuscitation and give initial treatment for burns, stings etc. The course increased the women's self confidence in themelves while providing practical and essential tools for mothers likely to be raising their children alone.

A dietitian from the Ministry of Health taught a course to the children of the shelter about basic ingredients, healthy food, and appropriate nutrition. She also prepared healthy food with them -- thereby providing an educational and enjoyable activity.