Alice Cross Centre in Teignmouth Launches Fundraising Drive to Avert Closure

The Alice Cross Centre, a community hub located in Teignmouth, Devon, is undertaking fundraising efforts to continue its operations. This initiative is prompted by increasing running costs and insufficient available support. For almost five decades, the centre has offered food, assistance, and various activities to vulnerable and elderly residents. Paul Howard, a trustee for the charity, reported that the centre’s monthly grant income has diminished by £8,000 to £10,000. Coupled with escalating energy expenses, this necessitates the centre securing £10,000 each month. Mr. Howard indicated that the centre’s financial resources could be depleted within six months if adequate funds are not generated through new fundraising efforts. He stated, “Closing could be a real possibility which would be heart-breaking for the community and the centre staff and visitors.” He further added, “We have approximately 400 visitors per week. If we do not raise the funds we have a small reserve that would disappear in six months.” To bolster cash flow, the centre’s trustees and staff are actively working to increase donations and promote monthly subscriptions. Mr. Howard explained, “This is being targeted at local individuals initially but we will be focusing on local businesses to increase awareness of our plight and offer partnership opportunities to sponsor particular activities or donate and subscribe generally towards the centre’s income and maintenance.” The centre, named after Alice Cross, was inaugurated by her in 1978 with the objective of ensuring individuals in Teignmouth did not experience loneliness. Viv Wilson, a former centre manager and current volunteer, commented, “If she could look down and see that there was a possibility [of closure] despite the loss to our community, I think it would truly break her heart.” She further elaborated, “To the people that come here it means the world.” She described its significance, stating, “It’s a reason to get out of bed, the reason to put a bit of make up on and a nice jacket or a nice top.” Wilson continued, “Go and meet their friends have a coffee, have a chat, play a game, listen to music, do a dance have a lunch.” Fran Cragg, a user of the centre, expressed her wish for more people to utilize its available services. She remarked, “Food wise, company wise, the dementia clinic, all the different clubs, there is really a lot going on.” Cragg added, “If people would only come and see for themselves and get some satisfaction, nobody needs to be at home and be lonely.”