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, based in Romford, initially said it had to close on 22 April "unless we get a miracle" after the landlord said it couldn't provide the space for free.
This notice period has now been extended by the landlord until 6 May.
Chief executive Maria Quaife said: "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.
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 news was announced on social media 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."
Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk
