Polly suffered neglect throughout her childhood. She barely went to school, as no one was there to take her. From a young age, Polly had to learn how to do everything herself. She was often lonely and hungry.
By the time she was 15, Polly left the family home and was homeless.
She was placed in emergency accommodation at a local YMCA in the East Midlands and today life looks very different. Since arriving, Polly has taken part in activities designed to help her heal from trauma and recover her self-esteem.
From rock-climbing to music, she is learning new skills and uncovering her talents. Polly has started to discover her self-worth, and will one day be ready to live independently, making a home and a life of her own.
“YMCA has helped me build relationships with adults who are positive role models.”
As a RoomSponsor you help YMCA provide more than 7,000 spaces for young people across England and Wales, 831 of which are in the East Midlands.