TRUSTEES have decided to close a Newquay charity in the New Year that helps people in crisis.

DISC Newquay, which operates from the Sandy Lodge Hotel at Hilgrove Road, is closing from January 1 due to a lack of funding and no one stepping forward to run the organisation.

Manager Monique Collins decided in October to step down after the festive period as running the organisation was affecting her health.

DISC Newquay, which received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, has helped thousands of people in need over the years providing meals, clothes, Christmas presents, Christmas hampers, top ups for electric, tents, accommodation and various community programmes.

Monique said: “As many people already know I decided that after seven years it was time for me to leave DISC. A decision I found incredibly hard to make.

“I decided to leave as it has made me really poorly. No one wanted to take over and so the trustees have decided to close the charity.

“It’s been really hard going. There is no funding for grass roots organisations like ourselves. Everybody signposts to us and the demand has outgrown what we can offer.”

The trustees said in a statement: “With a heavy heart the Trustees are announcing the closure from January 1, 2025 of DISC Newquay, a cause that has been at the centre of a mission to support and uplift the most vulnerable in our society.

“For the last few years, the charity has had the privilege of providing food, aid, and a sense of hope to individuals and families facing unimaginable challenges.

“Through the generosity, dedication, and support from the local community and beyond, we’ve been able to make a lasting impact.

“While it is incredibly difficult to say goodbye, we are proud of all that the charity has accomplished. DISC has helped thousands of people regain their dignity, access essential resources, and, perhaps most importantly, feel seen and cared for.

“The kindness and commitment from the volunteers made this work possible, and for that, we are deeply grateful.

“As the landscape of charitable giving and need evolves, the decision to close was not made lightly, but a decision needed to be made. We are however confident that the values of compassion and community that we’ve championed over the years will continue to live on.

“We are deeply grateful to the volunteers, donors, partners, and everyone who believed in our mission and worked tirelessly for the good of the local community.

“Although this chapter is coming to an end, we know that the spirit of this organisation will persist in the hearts of those DISC helped, and the volunteers that gave their time.

“We encourage the community to continue supporting those in need, whether through other local organisations, acts of kindness, or by being the change you want to see.

“Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for believing in DISC and for making such a profound difference. Your generosity has left an indelible mark on our community, and for that, we are eternally grateful.”