Royal seal of approval for YMCA in Norwich
Royal seal of approval for YMCA in Norwich
 HRH the Duke of Edinburgh will give the royal seal of approval to the £2.9m Norwich Central YMCA redevelopment when he visits the accommodation facility on Wednesday June 24 to thank some of those who made it possible, as well as meeting young YMCA residents.
The Norwich Central YMCA, on All Saints Green opposite the new Norwich bus station, opened in January and focuses on serving the accommodation needs of 16-25 year olds, both male and female, from across the county. It provides 34 en-suite bedrooms and support facilities including a restaurant, training rooms, communal lounges and a health and education unit.
John Drake, Chief Executive Officer, YMCA Norfolk said: “we are honoured and delighted that HRH, the Duke of Edinburgh has taken time to visit us to witness first hand the achievements made by our staff, clients, stakeholders and the wider community.”
 Businesses, organisations, community groups and individuals are being offered the opportunity to come forward and invest £3,000 spread over three years as a contribution to enhancing the services the YMCA supplies to its clients.
John Drake, said: “We already have a number of room sponsors but are hoping that more will come forward. The two-stage development includes 74 bedrooms, plus training rooms, kitchens and offices. It is a great opportunity for local groups to make a real difference and help homeless young people in our county.
“Room sponsorship is a demonstrable way businesses, organisations, churches or families can show solidarity with us as we seek to meet the needs of young people. The investment is not just in bricks and mortar but in the lives of those most at risk today.”
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