by Rebecca Hannant
Gateway Community Care Hub in Withernsea is calling for more donations to support its work with vulnerable people.
Since February 2014, the hub in Queen Street has supported some of the area’s most vulnerable residents.
Withernsea is ranked among the bottom 10 per cent of the most deprived towns in the UK, with around one in three children living in poverty and many eligible for free school meals.
The Kingstrust Network took over the hub in 2020 and it has continued its mission to provide a warm space, welfare support, food parcels, help with white goods and opportunities for people to connect.
However, the centre says funding has become increasingly difficult to secure, with many grants paused or oversubscribed. It is now aiming to raise £10,000 to maintain its services.
Treasurer Tim Jarvis said: “You can help us by making either a regular monthly donation or a one-off donation in our big 2026 appeal. We need to raise £10,000 this year in addition to our regular grant funding to continue to help those most in need in our area.
“We need help with our core running costs. Typically, two thirds of our costs are met from grants and donations. Our total core costs for running the hub in 2026 are budgeted to be £45,000. We have seen a significant increase in wage costs, rates, utility costs over the last couple of years.”
Gateway manager Melissa Hayton added: “Over the past six years, the Gateway Hub has made a meaningful and lasting impact in our community. We support those who need it most, helping to improve lives, reduce isolation and build a stronger, more connected community.
“To continue delivering this vital work, we are seeking funding to sustain and expand our services. Without funding, we cannot continue delivering the vital support our community depends on.”
Donations can be made by standing order or BACS to HSBC 40-25-49, account number 10214019, online via GoFundMe or PayPal at kingstrust.org/donate, or by cheque payable to Kingstrust Network and delivered to the hub at 104 Queen Street, Withernsea, or posted to 23 Holyrood Avenue, Bridlington YO15 2EA.