Legacy Youth Zone, in Selhurst, Croydon, is calling on the public to help support its costs of £1.8 million each year.
The call comes following a pledge from an anonymous donor to double any donations made over the next year.
The organisation is also in talks with Croydon Council over further financial support as its operational agreement comes to an end on 31 March next year.
The council has invested £300,000 per year over three years to support the youth zone since it opened in 2018.
The organisation provides support for young people aged eight to 19, or 25 for those with additional needs.
Since opening it has recruited more than 100 youth workers and volunteers offering activities such as music production, sports, performing arts, climbing and cooking.
Alongside the activities it offers support to young people and their families facing challenges such as food poverty, physical and mental health, youth crime and employment.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the charity offered online workshops in areas including exercise and cooking. Youth workers engaged with young people through wellbeing calls to check-in with members and their families and delivered almost 15,000 free food parcels to the community.
Emma, aged nine, had been suffering with an eating disorder and anxiety before taking part in Legacy’s online cooking classes during the pandemic.
Her dad, Karl, credited Legacy with helping to contribute to improvements in her relationship with food. He said: “Legacy has really encouraged a healthy, confident relationship with food for my daughter. It has been something for her to look forward to each week.
“As her dad, it's been amazing to watch her grow in confidence in the kitchen and she should be really proud of herself. Staff are making a difference to children's wellbeing and creating a great space in the community, for all children and young adults.”
Barnabas Shelbourne, chief executive of Legacy Youth Zone, said: “Our commitment and dedication to young people is our priority and young people need our support more than ever before as we emerge from the pandemic.
“That’s why we are asking for the backing of the community through regular giving to help us give Croydon’s young people the support and services they need and deserve.”
For more information or to donate visit: legacyyouthzone.org/double-your-donations/
