The YWCA began in response to their need to access safe housing, skill development, bible study and meet other women. It was founded by Christian women, and has always been open to all faiths and backgrounds.
The YWCA was born in 1855 during the industrial revolution in Great Britain. Young women, drawn by the prospect of jobs and opportunities, gave up rural living and moved to London city.

By 1894 there were YWCAs in several countries worldwide, sharing a commitment to peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people. At this time, the YWCAs of Great Britain, USA, Norway and Sweden joined to form the World YWCA, one of the first independent international women’s organisations in the world. The organisation made it possible for YWCAs to work more cohesively, and has been a pioneer in raising the status of women and international awareness of issues affecting women. Today, the YWCA movement empowers women and girls to change in 22,775 local communities of 122 countries to change their world for good.