The ad, called "there's no place like home", runs throughout December across 22 satellite and cable channels, including Christian stations.
The creative idea is based around the problem of abuse and the fact that two thirds of homeless people are in that situation because they have been abused.
The ads aim to demonstrate that the YMCA can be a home away from home for people who have had to leave their families.
The 90-second and 60-second spots, with 10-second tails, feature a true-to-life story of a young girl who is sleeping rough. It shows her having flashbacks of arguing with her mother and of her stepfather creeping into her room at night.
The call to action is the request for a regular donation of £2 a month by dialling a freephone number to support the charity's quest to give homeless people a bed, as well as offering them friendship, counselling and skills training.
Catherine Lawson, direct marketing manager at YMCA, said: "Two out of three homeless young people are in their situation due to family breakdowns. We hope this ad will illustrate the real difference the YMCA can make in giving homeless young people a safe, secure place to stay as well as offering counselling and new-skills training so they can move on in life."
Media buying is through WWAV Rapp Collins Media. The creative team on the campaign was Barney Cockerell and Nick Platt.
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