A community lifeline in Swansea is at risk as funding dwindles, potentially leaving many without essential support by Christmas.
A vital community resource bank in Swansea, which provides emergency food packages and digital support services, has announced it may close by Christmas if funding is not secured. This warning comes amid a troubling trend of local business closures in 2025, highlighting the urgent need for support in the area.
Current Situation of CETMA
The organization, known as CETMA, plays a crucial role in supporting individuals facing food insecurity and digital exclusion. Elian Williams, the 25-year-old project coordinator at CETMA, emphasized the importance of their services: “We can provide people with emergency food packs if they’re struggling for food on any particular day and they can’t get to a food bank until a certain date or don’t have any money until a given date for their benefits.”
In recent months, CETMA has seen a significant increase in demand.
In just the last two months, the organization distributed 40 emergency food packs and 15 free SIM cards with data. They also provided a warm space for over 30 individuals, underscoring the rising needs in the community. “You’ll potentially either get people who are on universal credit, personal independence payment, or some other benefit,” Elian explained, pointing to the economic struggles faced by many.
Williams noted that the peak times for assistance typically occur during the summer and late winter months. However, the organization is currently facing challenges due to a lack of funding and rising operational costs. “We’ve gone through our stockpile of the 24-hour emergency food packs and we just do not really have the realistic amount of funding to buy more stuff,” she stated, reflecting the severe impact of financial limitations.
Impact of Local Business Closures
The situation in Swansea is further complicated by the recent wave of business closures, such as the Uplands Emporium and Humble Deli, which closed just five months after opening. These closures exacerbate the community’s struggles and reduce local resources available for those in need. Elian expressed concern that without CETMA’s support, many individuals may face dire circumstances: “It would potentially put a lot of the community, at least in the city center region, in a somewhat difficult position.”
As public awareness of these issues grows, the need for support from local authorities and the community becomes increasingly crucial. Elian highlighted that many people they assist are employed yet still struggle to make ends meet due to the high cost of living. “A lot of the people we have supported have said they have employment but they’re still struggling,” she said, emphasizing the pervasive nature of poverty in the area.
Call for Community Support
If CETMA does not secure sufficient funding, the organization may be forced to close or reduce its operations drastically. Elian warned, “As soon as we do have the stocks to give them immediately, a lot of it is already accounted for.” This situation could lead to many community members being left without essential services. “We often have people telling us if not for our support they wouldn’t have been able to have any sort of food that given day,” she added, highlighting the critical nature of their services.
In light of these challenges, CETMA is appealing for donations and community support to continue their work. The organization’s ability to operate is directly tied to the generosity of the community and the availability of grants. Without immediate action, the potential closure of CETMA could leave a significant gap in support for vulnerable individuals in Swansea.
