There are big fears for some of the most vulnerable people in Angus if an award-winning drop-in centre is forced to close.
Youngsters and adults with learning difficulties are among those who face being hit hard if the long-established Cafe Project in Arbroath goes to the wall after 17 years.
The project, on Brothock Bridge, risks being wound up if sufficient funds are not found by January following a failed funding application to Children in Need after 12 years of support.
Angela Spink, from the project, said: “We are in urgent need of funds. Monthly running costs total about £12,500 and time is running out.
“We have sufficient reserves to continue until the end of January and, if necessary, to manage our winding-up thereafter.
“The Cafe Project going to the wall would have a massive impact on the lives of so many people because it’s such a vital resource.”
A public appeal has now been launched for donations because the continuation of the project will not be viable unless “sufficient funds” are raised.
The Street Games project has already been suspended because of the cash shortage but that will just be the tip of the iceberg unless cash is forthcoming.
The project caters for a wide variety of people, including those having difficulties at school, the unemployed and young offenders, providing help with literacy, numeracy, behaviour and commitment.
With more than 20,000 attendances per year, it also provides a “one-stop” shop for leisure, culture, health, education and employment services and outdoor activities for people in Angus.
Angela said: “I am especially concerned for our group with learning difficulties who meet on a Monday because it’s the only place in Angus they can come for a drop-in.
“They have been coming for years now from across Angus and it’s the highlight of their week.
“A lot of them wouldn’t think about going into pubs so it’s a safe environment where they can mix with people, play games, have a chat and make friends.
“They would be lost if the drop-in centre wasn’t there because it’s a big part of their lives.
“We also run a youth drop-in during the week and 100 youngsters a week also attend our darts academy, which is the only place they can go.
“These kids could be back hanging about the streets if the Cafe Project was to close.”
Thanks to national recognition of the initiative’s work, the project continues to indirectly help young people throughout Scotland.
Angela said the directors are continuing to apply for funding in the meantime but they realise time is now rapidly closing in on them.
She said: “The Cafe Project has received strong support from the local community and also from major funders. Less than 10% is provided by Angus Council, which is a drop in the ocean.
“Competition for funds is now very intense across the UK and it is estimated that one in six UK charities will go to the wall this year.
“We know that such a request for donations is bold in these challenging times but so many of our community depends on our project and it would be so sad to see it close.”