9 October 2014

YMCA Black Country Group are now half way through their campaign to recruit “25 Hosts in 25 Weeks” in order to meet the growing demand for accommodation in Walsall, but are still looking for more people to come forward in the run up to Christmas.

YMCA’s Open Door project works with people right across the Black Country, who have opened their homes to welcome a homeless teenager. Open Door Hosts provide more than just a room for these young people; they offer a family environment, teaching practical skills to help them on the road to independence.

Rachael Taylor, Host Co-ordinator for YMCA Open Door said, “Halfway through our campaign and we’re almost halfway to our target on 25 hosts! Since the official launch in July we have seven new Hosts supporting vulnerable teenagers to become independent young adults.  Our approval panel will meet next week and hopefully approve more, which will take the running total up to 12! As the cold nights draw in, it’s important that we have enough Hosts to meet the demand of homeless teenagers being referred to the project.”

Anyone with a spare room and a caring heart who wants to know more about becoming a YMCA Host can attend a preparation course at Streams Supported Housing, 102 Hospital Street, Walsall, WS2 8BW on Saturday 18th and 25th October from 10am – 2pm.

For more information on the project, contact Rachael Taylor on 0121 524 1974.

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