About us

YMCA Cornwall has been a central support for young people at risk of homelessness for nearly 150 years. As an independent local charity, we rely on the generosity of donors, fundraisers, and grant-makers to continue our life-changing work.

Today, we provide supported housing for 50 young people aged 16–24, who are homeless, sofa-surfing, or at risk. Our young residents stay with us for up to two years in a safe, stable environment, where they receive one-to-one guidance from our dedicated support team.

Together, we help young people build the confidence and skills they need to move forward, into education, employment, and independent living.

Our accommodation includes:

• 46 self-contained flats.
• 4 shared rooms that serve as a stepping stone into longer-term housing.
• 20 newly converted flats transformed from our former sports hall and backpackers’ lodge, to meet the growing demand for youth housing.

Beyond housing, our HQ in Penzance site home to a The Orchard coffee shop, and a variety of rooms and venue hire. Perfect for meetings, family events, and fitness classes. Profits from these social enterprises are reinvested directly into our youth services.

YMCA Cornwall is committed to supporting young people of all backgrounds and beliefs, especially in times of need. We believe every young person deserves a safe place to live and the opportunity to thrive.