Could you extend hospitality to someone in need this winter? YMCA Black Country Group is currently calling out for caring ‘hosts’ across the Black Country who can let a young person stay in their spare room.
The YMCA Open Door Nightstop scheme provides emergency accommodation for homeless 16 – 17 year olds; these young people have often been forced out of their home and onto the streets.
Host Coordinator, Rachael Taylor said, “At this time of year, there are lots of young people who are not able to stay with their family throughout the holiday period; we want to encourage people who are able to offer their spare room to a young person in crisis, to contact us and give homeless young people more than just a thought this Christmas.”
YMCA Open Door also offers longer term Supported Lodgings for youngsters who are unable to live with their own families. The aim of the scheme is to help young people move towards independence; they learn important life skills such as cooking, cleaning and budgeting whilst living in a safe environment, as part of a family.
The project currently has over 30 young people staying with Host Families right across the Black Country, but the YMCA is constantly receiving referrals for Nightstop and would like to double the number of hosts available by December next year.
Hosts come in all shapes and sizes, from single people to large families. All Hosts are given full training and support from the YMCA plus an allowance to cover expenses.
If you have a spare room, a passion for young people and want to give something back this Christmas, please contact Host Co-ordinator, Rachael Taylor on 0121 524 1957 or email rachael.taylor@ymcabc.org.uk
