Living Springs Cabin Project
A vision made possible by community
At YMCA Living Springs, we provide more than accommodation. We provide a place of safety, support and new beginnings for parents and families who have experienced some of life’s most difficult circumstances. Many of the families who come to us are recovering from domestic abuse, homelessness, family breakdown, trauma or periods of significant instability. Understandably, these experiences can leave lasting emotional impacts on both parents and children.
That is why the creation of Lower Springs Grove, encompassing Upper Springs Cabin and Creation Canopy, and the surrounding outdoor spaces is so important. This project was about creating a dedicated space where families can spend positive time together, build relationships, learn new skills, improve their wellbeing and continue their journey towards healing and independence.
The project has only been possible thanks to the generosity, dedication and shared vision of a remarkable number of people. Through a generous legacy donation of £24,000, alongside support from local organisations, churches, businesses, community partners and volunteers, more than £30,000 in donations along with more than 20 hours of volunteer time, was invested to bring the project to life. Every person and organisation involved has helped create something that will benefit families for years to come.
We would like to give a special thanks to the following organisations, for their support and generosity:
Why Outdoor Space Matters
For many families arriving at Living Springs, life has been focused on survival. Parents may be rebuilding their confidence after experiencing abuse. Children may be adjusting to a new environment after periods of uncertainty. Families often need time and space to recover emotionally as well as practically and the outdoors can play a powerful role in that journey.
Nature provides opportunities to slow down, breathe and reconnect. Children naturally learn through exploration and play. Parents can find moments of calm and reflection away from the stresses that have dominated their lives. Shared activities in outdoor settings can help strengthen family bonds and create positive memories that replace difficult experiences from the past. Upper Springs Cabin has been created to provide exactly that kind of environment.
The names Lower Springs Grove, Upper Springs Cabin and Creation Canopy connect directly to the story behind YMCA Living Springs itself. The inspiration comes from the biblical account of Caleb’s daughter Aksah, who asked her father not only for land but also for the upper and lower springs of water. She understood that land alone would not bring fruitfulness; it needed a source of life. (Judges 1:13-15 NIV).
For YMCA Living Springs, those springs have long represented the two aspects of our work.
The “upper springs” represent the practical support every family needs: safe accommodation, security, stability, guidance and opportunities for a brighter future.
The “lower springs” represent the deeper work of healing, restoration and hope. They remind us that while practical support is essential, lasting transformation often comes through rebuilding confidence, relationships, self-worth and a sense of purpose.
As a Christian organisation, YMCA is founded on the belief that every person is created with value and dignity. Our Christian faith inspires us to serve families with compassion, trust and hope, while welcoming and respecting people of all faiths and none.
There is something particularly fitting about this vision being expressed through an outdoor space. Throughout Christian tradition, creation is seen as a gift from God and places of natural beauty are often associated with rest, renewal and restoration. The new ‘Creation Canopy’ provides families with opportunities to experience those things in practical ways, and be creative themselves, surrounded by nature and supported by a community that believes in their potential.
Judges 1:14-15 Caleb asked his daughter Aksah, “What can I do for you?” She replied, “Do me a special favour. Since you have given me land in the Negev, give me also springs of water.” So Caleb gave her the upper and lower springs. (Judges 1:13-15 NIV)
If you feel inspired to support YMCA Living Springs, please consider a donation to future projects, or contact our team about individual and corporate volunteering opportunities.
How can we help
Find out more about YMCA services near you
