I know a very good chef who actually learnt his skill this way to start off, then left and started university to become a full chef. Sometimes this does lead them to the right road.

This sounds like a good idea--at least give them something for skills, and who know, like Shaor said it might lead to something more...

Kids can be taught life skills that will improve their self
esteem. They just need people that invest their time &
energy to help them turn their lives in a productive direction.