<P> Many YMCAs throughout the world still maintain residences as an integral part of the programming . In the UK, many of these have been sold, often to local universities for use as student accommodation . YMCAs in the UK are still known predominantly as organizations that provide accommodation for vulnerable and homeless young people . Across the UK the YMCA provides over 8,000 bed spaces, and is thus one of the largest providers of safe supported accommodation for young people . The vast majority of this accommodation is supported by a range of personal, social and educational services . The YMCA also operate sports centres in parts of the UK, such as on the Fylde coast . </P> <P> In Germany (and Austria and Switzerland) the YMCA is called CVJM - Christlicher Verein junger Menschen . </P> <P> In the United States, the YMCA exists as a national resource entity (named YMCA of the USA and denoted as Y - USA) plus about 2,700 separate local YMCA entities . The local entities "engage" about 21 million men, women and children, and seek to "nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation's health and well - being and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors ." </P> <P> The Y's major programs include after school programs, daycare programs, and physical fitness . Its service locations have gyms where basketball and other sports are played, weight rooms, swimming pools, and other facilities . It is important to the Y that all persons--"regardless of age, income or background"--can participate in Y programs . </P>

How many ymcas are there in the united states