Santas swing into action for Exeter YMCA

On Saturday 3rd December, thrill seekers will abseil 100ft down the side of Princesshay’s car park raising vital funds for YMCA Exeter in the hair-raising process.

For the third year, Princesshay will be hosting this year’s YMCA Santa Abseil. A festive spectacle awaits onlookers as the abseilers don festive attire for their adventure.

Fundraising & Communications, Hilary Bush, YMCA Exeter, said, “We are looking forward to this year’s abseil. We hope that it will encourage the local community to do something fun for a very worthy cause. By raising sponsorship from family, friends and loved ones we hope that everyone taking part will not only have an incredible, once in a lifetime memory, but also help us give more young people a safe place to call home this Christmas.”

In 2015, YMCA Exeter raised more than £6,000, which was used to help support young people and give them a safe place at Christmas. This year, it is hoped that over £7,000 can be raised by the local community taking part in this exciting fundraising challenge.

Jacqui Cousins, Managing Director of Belvedere HR is taking part, saying, “A few weeks ago I attended a networking group where YMCA Exeter were speakers. The YMCA do amazing work to help young people get back on their feet and her presentation really struck a chord with me. Everyone needs help sometimes, no matter what their background or circumstances. I have never done an abseil before but by taking part in the YMCA Santa abseil I am doing something for a great cause as well as something I’ve always wanted to do!”

YMCA Exeter provides over 18,000 nights of accommodation every year to young people who are experiencing homelessness. Whether they have faced neglect, domestic violence or even family breakdown, YMCA Exeter are passionate about equipping them with the tools they need to achieve economic independence, to thrive and to contribute positively to society.