At YMCA DownsLink Group we work tirelessly to ensure that young people do not become street homeless. 44 is the average age of death for someone experiencing homelessness. We prevent vulnerable young people (16-24) facing difficulties from becoming part of this terrible statistic. Join The 44 Challenge and help us change lives.

We step in to look after young people (16-24) when they are vulnerable and facing difficulties in their life. By supporting young people at this crucial stage in their lives we can prevent them from falling into a vicious circle of exclusion. We provide a range of services that aim to keep young people safe, whatever they are facing. We run Youth Advice Centres, mentoring programmes, family mediation, counselling, support for young people facing sexual and criminal exploitation, and, give those facing homelessness a safe home.

But, we can't do this without you. An increasing number of young people are reaching out to us for support and their needs are escalating; our services are stretched.

By taking part in the 44 Challenge and fundraising for us, you will help change lives in your local community. So, will you join us and make a change that will be good for you and change the future for others?

How do I get involved? What can I do?

Getting involved is easy - just follow these 5 simple steps:

1. Get inspired and choose any challenge or task involving the numbers 44, 4.4 or 440.

2. Choose whether to make a pledge and donate yourself, or, set up a fundraising page

3. Share your page or donate, suggested donations - £4.40, £44, £440

4. Smash that challenge make yourself proud & complete your challenge!

5. Share the love share what youre doing with friends and nominate others to set up their own challenge or sponsor you. Do send us photos and share your updates using our hashtag #The44Challenge & @ymcadlg