This Christmas, Pay It Forward
Your support gives young people the chance to learn, grow and shape their future
The YMCA Scholarship Programme ensures no child misses out on YMCA opportunities due to financial circumstances. The Scholarship removes financial barriers, making sure no child is left out due to cost.
Leo’s Story
Confidence through opportunity at 15
At 15, Leo was struggling to connect with others. His family were desperate for somewhere he could feel at home, make friends and try new things.
Thanks to a YMCA Youth Scholarship, he now attends youth sessions almost every evening and has found a safe, welcoming space to belong. He has discovered new activities, growing in confidence with each one and the positive impact has been felt by his whole family.
Without the Scholarship, these opportunities wouldn’t have been possible for Leo. This Christmas, your support can give more young people like Leo the opportunities they need to thrive all year round.
This Christmas, help us to pay it forward.
Read Leo’s full story below.
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Ways you can help:
Support us to give children and young people real opportunities to thrive
Donations directly support vulnerable young people in our local community, helping them access YMCA memberships, join holiday day camps like Camp Williams, and feel valued in our children’s residential care homes.
Every donation, big or small, provides vital support to help local children feel valued, make connections, and enjoy experiences they might otherwise miss – offering them a brighter, happier future.
Donate
Give a one-off donation today to provide young people with real opportunities to thrive.
Become part of our Community
Become a Supporter Member or join as a Villager Member to stay connected.
More ways to get involved:
Show Your Support
Spread the word and share our messages with your community (every share helps!)
Buy a YMCA Cafe Gift Voucher for yourself or someone else as a perfect present and way to support young people in your community this Christmas
Give a gift
If you’d like to give a physical gift for children aged 8+ before Monday 15th December, you can drop them off at
Some popular ideas are:
- Socks
- Hot water bottle
- Pens, puzzle, 16+ colouring or activity books
- Gloves, scarfs & hats
- Chocolate, sweets & biscuits (sealed packets)
Join the fun!
Pop into The Village and leave us a message of support next time you visit the Village or Cafe – we have tags in our venues where you can leave your Pay It Forward pledge on to be displayed.
Come down and join us at the YMCA Village to get involved! We have a full lineup of festive celebrations and activities, from Festive Family Feasts to craft afternoons, a Christmas party night, films and much more!
YMCA Scholarship Programme
Cost shouldn’t be a barrier
Every young person deserves a chance to play, grow, and be a part of something positive. The Scholarship removes financial barriers, making sure no child is left out due to cost.
YMCA Scholarships can help cover the cost
We believe every child should have the chance to join in – no matter what’s going on financially at home. The YMCA Scholarship Programme helps make sure no young person misses out on the fun, friendships and opportunities we offer.