A CHRISTCHURCH youth club struggling to stay afloat is appealing for new supporters to help them out of their plight.
Jason Perry, chairman of Walkford Youth Club committee says the situation has become increasingly difficult over the past few months, with volunteers leaving and money running out.
Jason, who runs the Monday and Friday clubs at Walkford United Reformed Church hall, said it was particularly frustrating because the youth club was needed in the area for local youngsters.
“There is just no money, we run to a loss”, he said.
“We are trying to apply for grants and funding but it is difficult.
“We also need volunteers. At the moment my wife and I are running it but we need more help, it’s taking over our lives.”
Jason, who is also chairman of Frogs (Friends and Residents of Grange and Somerford), added: “Two years this has been running now and it’s the only facility really for kids.
“The need is there. That is obvious and to lose a vital service like this would be a massive loss.
“But we need help. We can’t continue like this or it will fold.
“On Mondays we can get between 20 and 50 kids turn up. Fridays is a bit different as our arrangements have changed a bit but we are determined to relaunch.”
On Monday nights the youth club is open to youngsters aged 7-11 and on Fridays for teenagers from 11-18 years-old.
“Unless we get volunteers there is a great possibility we may have to close on Friday nights”, Jason said.
“At the moment Monday is paying for Fridays but we can’t afford to do anything with the kids.
“What’s ironic is we have all this amazing equipment thanks to a grant we won but no way of ensuring a stable cash flow.
“We must be the only youth club that has got everything – computers, video cameras, thousands of pounds worth of music equipment but could still close.”
To offer of help and support contact Jason on 07767 880089 or email him on walkford.youth.club@ sky.com.
