By KLTV Newsdesk –

Community drop-in centre given four weeks to raise £12,000 or risk shutting its doors

A vital support hub for military veterans in Huddersfield is facing the prospect of closure within weeks after a critical funding shortfall left it struggling to cover an outstanding £12,000 bill.

Tommy’s Lounge, described by supporters as a lifeline for former service personnel, has issued an urgent appeal for help.

If the funds cannot be secured within the next four weeks, the community venue could be forced to shut permanently.

The space is designed to provide a sense of community for everyone

More than a coffee lounge

For years, Tommy’s Lounge has served as far more than a place to grab a drink. It is the only dedicated drop-in centre for veterans in Huddersfield, offering a safe space for former servicemen and women to connect, talk and find support.

Tommy’s Lounge is the brainchild of Jennie Thorn, Mick Riley MBE, and Sue Longbottom. This cosy haven is adorned with military memorabilia, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere where veterans and their families can feel at home.

Organisers say the venue provides something many veterans struggle to find after leaving the armed forces: a sense of belonging.

Supporters of the lounge say it has helped countless veterans manage their mental health challenges, often simply by providing a chair, a listening ear and the comfort of familiar faces.

Every donation received in the past, organisers say, has translated directly into helping a veteran “find the strength to push through another day”.

Urgent appeal for help

With the threat of closure looming, the team behind Tommy’s Lounge has launched a renewed fundraising drive to keep the doors open.

They are calling on supporters and the wider community to contribute through crowdfunding efforts and to spread the word to anyone who may be able to help.

A funding goal of £10,000 has been set and can be donated to here.

Supporters are also being asked to share the appeal with businesses, suppliers and contacts who may have the means to provide financial assistance.

With the support of the local community, Tommy’s Lounge regularly hosts special events and celebrations for the network

Fighting to keep veterans ‘home’ alive

Those behind the lounge say they are determined to keep the venue open for the veterans who rely on it.

Closing the doors, they say, would mean losing a place many former service members have come to see as their second home.

The appeal has been signed by organisers Jennie, Mick and Sue, along with the veterans who use the space, who expressed “deepest gratitude” to supporters who have stood with them so far.

They now hope the Huddersfield community will rally once again to help them overcome what they describe as their “most difficult hurdle yet”.