YMCA – Heart of England Launches “Adopt a Wish” Campaign to Make Christmas Special for Young People in Need

Birmingham, 25^th September 2025 –
This Christmas, YMCA – Heart of England is inviting the community to share the magic of the season by taking part in its “Adopt a Wish” campaign. The initiative gives local residents the chance to bring joy to a young person by adopting their Christmas wishes and helping make them a reality.

Each wish will be written on a tag, including the young person’s generic details (gender, age range, and suggested gift ideas). Community members can choose a tag, purchase the gift, and ensure that every child and young person experiences the excitement of receiving something chosen especially for them this festive season.

“Christmas should be a time of hope, joy, and celebration for every child,” said M. Elena Roselli, Head of PR, Communications & Engagement at YMCA – Heart of England. “Through Adopt a Wish, we’re giving our community a way to come together and brighten the Christmas Season for young people who might otherwise go without.”

The campaign runs until early December, allowing enough time for wishes to be collected and distributed in time for Christmas.

Anyone wishing to get involved can contact the charity at: communications@ymcaheartofengland.org.uk

YMCA – Heart of England is encouraging individuals, families, workplaces, and community groups to join in. Whether you adopt a single wish or rally your colleagues to fulfil many, your support will help make this Christmas truly special for local children.

About YMCA – Heart of England

YMCA Heart of England is an independent Christian charity that works with people of all faiths and of none. We were formed from the merger of YMCA Birmingham and YMCA Coventry & Warwickshire in 2020 and support local people in their communities with a wide range of services.

YMCA believes in fairness and opportunity. There are essential building blocks for a full and rewarding life: a safe home; acceptance; guidance; friendship; physical and mental health; academic support; employment skills; and access to real opportunities. Many young people have never known these things; other people have lost one or more as they grew up, but we all need them. All of us.

At YMCA, we provide these critical foundations for a fresh, strong start for young people and a better quality of life in the communities across Birmingham, Coventry, Rugby and Solihull, in which we provide;

• Accommodation and support to help vulnerable people move towards independent living
• Youth services in areas of high need
• Volunteering opportunities
• Friendly nursery settings for the community
• Community programmes and initiatives.

We are proud to be affiliated to the national and international YMCA Movement, who provide us with advice, support and representation.

Media Contact:
M. Elena Roselli
Head of PR, Communications & Engagement
Communications@ymcaheartofengland.org.uk