Become a host

YMCA Open Door offers vulnerable young people safe accommodation with Host Families – individuals, couples and families who live in the Black Country. Similar to temporary fostering, a young person placed with a Host will receive a package of support from YMCA to help them gain the confidence and skills they need to become independent adults.

What do you need to become an Open Door Host?

As well as a spare room in a safe home and a caring disposition, Open Door Hosts will need:

Compassion and empathy
Patience and understanding
The ability to listen and respond appropriately to young people
To provide at least one meal a day
A willingness to work alongside YMCA staff
To undertake a criminal record check

Why should you become an Open Door Host?

It is immensely rewarding to see a young person develop into a responsible adult who is making the most of the opportunities you have opened up for them.
It is a chance for you to use your resources and skills to make your community a better place for everyone.
Hosts are never alone in supporting the young person, YMCA staff will be on hand if extra or more specific support is required.

Hear from some of our existing Hosts

There are two kinds of YMCA Host

Supported Lodgings Hosts

Supported Lodgings through YMCA Open Door tend to be longer term placements, similar to fostering and can last between one month and up to two years.

The young person will make a contribution towards food and other household bills and you will receive a weekly allowance from YMCA.

Nightstop Hosts

Nightstop placements are usually shorter than Supported Lodgings. A placement can be overnight or up to two weeks and can mark the first step out of homelessness for a young person.

Nightstop Hosts are paid a daily allowance to cover their costs. The young person is provided an evening meal, bed for the night, breakfast, laundry facilities and basic toiletries. They can also talk to a supportive Host.

Take a look at Ryan's story and how living with a YMCA Host supported him

Without a safe home and the guidance of caring, responsible adults many young people lose their way. YMCA Open Door provides young people with the stability they need to continue with their education and transition into responsible adults.

If you would like to consider becoming an Open Door Host, please complete the form below and a member of our team will contact you to discuss further details.