A STRUGGLING charity has been handed a lifeline after a community rallied together to raise more than £25,000 to keep it afloat.

The generosity of Didcot residents and organisations has ensured the immediate future of the Balsam Project, which supports vulnerable or isolated families.

The charity sent out a cry for help in February in the hope to raise £25,000 by March 7, otherwise it would be forced to close.

Fiona Brennan-Scott, promotions and fundraising coordinator, said they had been "overwhelmed" by the town's generosity as the donations surpassed their target.

She said: "It is not just about the bigger donations we received, but also those made my individuals who have made such an effort to help us keep our doors open.

"One supporter, who runs the Great Western Park Community Cafe, decided the cafe's takings be donated to the project and organised for a photographer to come along and take photos, with proceeds from those sales going to the project.

"She raised £500 for us and that was through sheer hard work and we cannot thank them enough."

Didcot Rotary Club donated £1,000 with Didcot Town Council also granting the charity £1,260.

David and Sue Hawkins, who own Didcot Deli in Cockcroft Road, said despite not receiving direct support from the charity they considered it a valuable community asset.

Mr Hawkins said: "I am just so impressed by the hard work of Alex and Julie who seem to be completely dedicated to helping families in the community."

Currently the charity supports 72 families across the county through different courses and social events which all look at developing families' skills to live well together.

Leanne Coates, 34, who lives in Didcot, said she didn't know where she would be without the help and support of the charity.

Now a volunteer the mum-of-three said: "When I came to Balsam's it was the first place where I didn't feel judged.

"I needed their help because of the big age gap difference between my children. And although I am already a Mum, I didn't know whether I could do it all again.

"They gave me the confidence I needed and you really do feel part of a family."

Since raising the desperate funds, the charity's trustees have introduced a new financial plan which will reduce short-term operating costs.

Its current facilities have wavered rent to allow it to get back on its feet and the charity is hoping to recruit at least two new trustees.

For more information or to donate contact: martin@balsamfamilyproject.co.uk.