1066 country young people’s charity ‘may have to close’

Charity Xtrax is under threat of closure. Andrew Batsford (Project Manager), Shaunna Kemp, Rae Edwards (Project Worker) and Lisa Stretten. SUS-151020-114527001

Xtrax have been helping 16-25 year-olds for more than 20 years but is now under threat due to a lack of funds and social services cuts from the government.

Chairman Alastair Fairley called on the public to help the charity stay open at its annual general meeting last week.

As more and more statutory services have had to cut services, it has put tremendous pressure on the charitable and voluntary sector to pick up the pieces,” he said.

“We have worked incredibly hard to keep our doors open but, without urgent financial support we will be forced to close.”

Xtrax has helped more than 5000 vulnerable young people in its 21 years.

The award-winning charity provides a range of services including free laundry and showers, cheap meals, a breakfast club and help to find housing, employment or resolve personal crises.

“If we are to change the future for young people in Hastings we have to keep Xtrax open,” Mr Fairley said.

“We have exciting plans for life-changing services they really need, but time is critical – if everyone could find just a few pounds it will help keep the doors open and make a real difference.”

Xtrax was set up after the suicide of a young homeless man who felt he had been deserted by social services.

One of its volunteers one the 2015 Santander Volunteer of the Year award but deepening cuts to central grants means its critical work may have to end.

A team of volunteers will be out in Hastings Town Centre raising funds for the charity but you can also donate through its website: www.xtrax.org.

For more information, you can contact Xtrax by calling 01424 722529 or email .

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