Hi, I'm John and I currently live in YMCA Exeter Stage 4 housing.

I became homeless at the age of 17. I was studying at Exeter College at the time and using the charity Night Stop to get a room every night, sometimes having to travel as far as Barnstaple.

It was a big relief when I was able to move into YMCA Exeter housing in 2017. Finally, I had stability and it was a lot easier to go to college and focus on my studies.

Since being at YMCA Exeter I’ve enjoyed the community and I’ve grown in confidence. I’ve had the chance to volunteer with IT support as well as join a study boot camp, earning a CompTIA certificate in cybersecurity.

Living at YMCA Exeter has 100% given me the opportunity to pursue what I’d like to do and hopefully work in the IT world.

I ran the Exeter half marathon in 2024 and now I’m excited but nervous to take part in the London Marathon to raise money for YMCA Exeter. I don’t know London well, but I’m looking forward to running over landmarks like Tower Bridge.