“I didn’t used to like Christmas; however, I really enjoyed the activities and getting involved. It has made Christmas fun.” – YMCA Robin Hood Group Supported Housing Resident.
This Christmas, we called on the community to go beyond traditional gift-giving and join their inspiring 2024 campaign, “Pledge Hope This Christmas.” Individuals, families, and businesses were urged to make promises that would create meaningful, long-term support such as volunteering and fundraising for vulnerable young people across Nottinghamshire. Everyone was invited to contribute to building brighter, stronger communities by pledging hope for a better tomorrow.
Our work has been a lifeline for young people facing homelessness, poverty, and isolation, offering safe spaces and vital resources to help them thrive. One key initiative is the Supported Housing accommodations in Nottingham city centre, Goole, Mansfield and Ashfield which create a secure and nurturing environment for young people experiencing homelessness. Last year, our Supported Housing service provided temporary homes and support towards independence to 1,345 individuals, their highest volume provision as part of their Respond strategic directive. In terms of positive impact, this has been measured through a significant 8.7% YOY increase of young people moving into independent living.
Each pledge made this Christmas directly supported efforts like this, ensuring vulnerable young people receive the help they need to rebuild their lives.
As a part of this Christmas campaign, the Nottingham community came together to help create a special festive season for young people in YMCA Supported Housing and Children’s Residential Care without families or a place to call home, through generous gift donations and thoughtful activities organised by our Housing Team.
One resident shared, “I got two packs of beauty blenders, so I gave one to my friend—they’re the best ones you can buy!”
Hundreds of gifts were donated from individuals and groups, with contributions from organisations such as Paul Smith, Dunelm, SEWA’s Shoebox Appeal, Swinefleet School, the Credit Union, Riverside Church, and many others. These thoughtful gifts made a lasting impact on the young people they were given to.

Other residents expressed their gratitude, saying: “I really appreciated the gifts from Swinefleet school, especially at this time of year as it’s nice to know people like us are thought about.”, “I felt really thankful and seen because of the gifts. It helped me quite a lot.”
These generous contributions from the community, along with many other supporters, helped to bring warmth and joy to young people facing homelessness or family challenges this holiday season. Every donation, no matter the size, played a meaningful part in making Christmas a special time for those in need.

Nottingham-born fashion brand Paul Smith generously donated 115 pairs of socks to our Supported Housing service which helped them to stay warm and comfortable during the festive season.

Additionally, our Housing Team united over the Christmas period to spread the joy, organising a range of festive activities designed to bring comfort to the residents. From fun-filled events to community gatherings, to Christmas Dinner, the team worked tirelessly to create an atmosphere of togetherness.
“I didn’t used to like Christmas; however, I really enjoyed the activities and getting involved. It has made Christmas fun.” – YMCA Robin Hood Group Supported Housing Resident.
Jack Chamers, a resident at Shakespeare Street shared: “I enjoyed the Christmas decoration making because it helped me focus and just relax when everything in my life at the time was very stressful. Colouring gave me a moment of quiet which I needed.”

It is rewarding to see the positive impact of community unity on the lives of young people, especially at Christmas. We want to extend our extreme gratitude to everyone who contributed their time, resources, and kindness to make a difference and look forward to continuing to work together to create lasting change in the lives of those we serve.