StarJam is calling for donations so that its performing arts workshops can continue in person. Photo: Supplied / StarJam
A charity for children with disabilities is scaling back its services after its "toughest year yet".
Earlier this year, StarJam - which gives young people with disabilities opportunities in music, dance and performance - faced closure due to funding challenges.
It launched an emergency appeal, which raised $165,000, but the charity's financial woes had returned.
StarJam was proposing to hold its weekly, free workshops in-person in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, and go online everywhere else.
Chief executive Gilli Sinclair said the charity needed to find $500,000 in savings.
StarJam received no government funding, instead relying on donations and grants, she said.
"After our successful SOS appeal earlier this year, we were hopeful for the future, but several crucial grant applications have not come through."
They were determined to keep the charity alive, she said.
"The proposed changes are essential for us to overcome our financial challenges and continue delivering the impact our Jammers deserve."
There were discussing a range of options with staff that would still allow them to serve 800 tamariki, but under the proposal some workshops would transition to an online format.
The rising cost of living, increased operational expenses and a "significant" reduction in funding were behind the charity's financial struggles, Sinclair said.
"Without immediate financial support, we simply cannot sustain the services that have changed lives for over two decades."
The charity was asking individuals and businesses to donate so that workshops across the country could continue.
The proposal to scale back services was still out for consultation with staff.
