A charity supporting thousands of older people could be forced to close by the end of October without urgent funding.
Age UK North Yorkshire & Darlington, which supports about 16,500 older people a year, has launched an emergency appeal to raise £14,000 by October 20 to keep its services running while it seeks longer-term funding.
(Image: Supplied)
The charity delivers more than 900 meals each month to older people in their homes, runs about 250 day care sessions each month, and welcomes 500 people to clubs and activities each month.
It also serves more than 1,000 people each month at its café in Bradbury House, Darlington.
Julie Ellis, chair of trustees, said: "Proposing closure is the hardest decision any board can face, and we haven't taken it lightly.
"We believe it's right to be honest with our staff, our clients and their families now, so that everyone can plan.
"But we are not giving up.
"Our staff and volunteers do extraordinary work, and thousands of older people across Darlington and North Yorkshire rely on it.
"We're asking our community to help us keep going."
Julie Ellis said "we are not giving up" (Image: Age UK)
Despite significant cost-cutting, the charity says its income no longer covers the cost of delivering its services.
The funds raised through the 'Save Age UK North Yorkshire & Darlington' campaign would allow it to continue operating while it works to secure its long-term future.
As part of the fundraising efforts, the service has launched a Go Fund Me campaign here.
Every penny donated will remain with the local branch.
The charity is supported by more than 60 volunteers and employs around 20 staff.
(Image: Age UK)
Fay Scullion, chief executive, said: "Every day I see what this charity means to people.
"For some of the older people we support, the person delivering their meal is the only person they'll see that day.
"For families caring for someone they love, a day at our day centre can be the break that keeps them going."
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"Our staff and volunteers have kept these services running through incredibly difficult times, and the people who rely on them deserve the chance to keep them.
"£14,000 would keep our doors open while we secure our future.
"If everyone whose life we've touched gives what they can, I believe we can do it."