(Image: Age UK)
A charity facing potential closure has received some lifeline donations, but says they "are not out of the woods yet."
Age UK North Yorkshire & Darlington has thanked the community after numerous donations to help continue its essential services for older people, including advice, social activities and wellbeing support.
The donations comes at a critical time for the charity.
Without urgent funding, it could be forced to close by the end of October, leaving around 16,400 people who rely on its support every year without access to vital services.
Nicola Henderson-Begg, Income Generation Manager Age UK North Yorkshire & Darlington, said: "We are incredibly grateful to Darlington Lions for a generous donation of £5,000.
"Their support comes at a crucial time and demonstrates a real commitment to helping older people in our community.
"Every pound donated helps us continue delivering vital services and ensures we can remain open for those who need us most.
"On behalf of everyone at Age UK North Yorkshire & Darlington, and the older people we support, thank you."
Anyone with even a pound to spare, is asked to help save the charity here, or is welcome to walk in to meet the team and donate in person at their office at Bradbury House, Beaumont Street West, Darlington, DL1 5SX.
Nicola said the charity's situation remains uncertain, but praised the overwhelming response from the community.
Ms Henderson-Begg said: "Our volunteers usually receive expenses for going out and delivering meals, but they have been donating those expenses straight back to us.
"We've had schools donate, even other charities, local businesses are doing the same.
"The community response has been amazing."
The £5,000 donation from the Lions will help sustain services that reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and enable older people to live independently for longer.
Ann Gent, president of Darlington Lions Club, said: "We are proud to support Age UK North Yorkshire & Darlington and the important work they do for older people across our area."
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"We know the difference these services make and are pleased that this donation will help ensure they can continue supporting those who need them."
The charity also recently thanked an anonymous donor for walking in and giving £5,000 to support its work.
It continues to rely on the generosity of individuals, organisations and businesses to keep its doors open and to deliver services that make a daily difference to the lives of older people in the community.