A cafe in Istanbul’s Beşiktaş district is giving young people with disabilities and those who grew up under state protection an opportunity to gain work experience, develop daily life skills and become more involved in social life.
Down Kafe-Fırın, which has been operating for six months with the support of philanthropists, provides a safe environment where young people over the age of 18 can work, socialize and continue their education.
The project was founded by 80-year-old retired nurse and volunteer mother Havva Gürak, who said the initiative aims to offer young people more than financial support.
The young people visit the cafe during their free time from school and take part in various tasks, including preparing food and pizza, packaging orders, serving customers and communicating with visitors.
Through these responsibilities, they have the opportunity to develop confidence and practical skills while learning how to take responsibility in a workplace.
