Romford charity Smile faces closure unless it finds new home

The future of a charity which supports low-income families remains in doubt after being given weeks to leave its home in east London.

Smile, in Romford, was due to close on 22 April after the landlord said it couldn't offer the space for free.

This notice period has now been reset to 6 May and Havering council has also said it will try to find a solution.

Chief executive Maria Quaife said of the uncertainty: "I haven't slept in two days and I'm about to cry."

The charity, set up in 2016, supports more than 2,000 families a year and had been given the premises rent free.

Its annual Christmas appeal, which supports disadvantaged children, was boosted after an appeal in November.

Ms Quaife added: "This is my life, my baby. We've done so well and we've tried to hard to be self-sufficient.

"For it to be pulled from underneath us... it's extremely difficult right now.

"We need to get keys to somewhere else before the 22nd."

Following news of the doubling of the notice period from two to four weeks, she added: "I'm super surprised.

"It's not going to save us but I'm definitely happy with the extension."

The charity announced it was at risk of closure on Thursday.

"So sad," wrote one reply. "I have donated to you over the years and I know the help is needed more than ever."

A spokesperson for Centric Community Projects, which takes empty buildings from landlords for use by charities, said: "The notice period has been extended for a second time to 30 days.

"Initially, the landlord had given seven days' notice, which was extended to two weeks."

A Havering council spokesperson said: "We're sad to hear about the potential closure of Smile and the impact this will have on the residents who rely on its invaluable support.

"The building is privately owned, so we have no control over commercial decisions.

"However, we are currently exploring if there is an opportunity to accommodate Smile within any vacant commercial council premises, so that they can continue to support local families."

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