More than 90 YMCA shops across England and Wales will close today, Monday 23 March, in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The health and safety of staff, customers and the wider community is of paramount importance, and as such YMCA England & Wales will be closing all of its stores until further notice.
Denise Hatton, Chief Executive, YMCA England & Wales said:
“As a charity, YMCA is deeply concerned with the ongoing challenges faced by COVID-19, and like everyone, we are uncertain how deeply this will impact our communities and how long it will continue to be in our lives.
“What is certain is that the health and safety of our customers, staff and the community is and must be the highest priority, and so we have taken the decision to close all stores from today. Please be assured that we will be closely monitoring government advice with the aim of reopening as soon as it is safe to do so.
“It is a privilege to serve at the heart of communities across England and Wales, providing not only the chance for customers to find bargains but also opportunities to gain employment experience and create new friendships. We would like to say an enormous thank you to everyone who has volunteered, donated and shopped with us over the years, and we hope to see you again very soon.”
Throughout its 175-year history, YMCA has grown and adapted to meet the needs of whatever its community requires. In these uncertain and unsettling times, YMCA will be working with councils and other local organisations to identify ways in which they can continue to do just that.
For more information or to request an interview please contact the press team.