A struggling York charity could have a secure future if it can get over an immediate financial hurdle, a city councillor said today.

But if it can't find £60,000 immediately, SNAPPY, or Special Needs Activities and Play Provision York, will have to close two essential projects for disabled youngsters by the end of the month.

York's business community has been urged to step in to save the charity for the city.

SNAPPY managers are considering options which will make sure the junior and senior projects, which help disabled people aged 14 to 25, can serve them for many years to come. But the projects need to have secure funding for the next few months while the options are explored.

Today, Councillor Ken King, City of York Council's member of SNAPPY's management committee, said: "I can't make any promises, but there are different things I would want to explore.

"I am confident we can secure the long-term future of these projects, but we need to find money now so they can survive long enough for us to look at different options.

"The immediate problem is getting money now, and we really are urging businesses to help."

In a desperate effort to urge York's business community to help save the projects, City of York Council has promised to match any money donated towards the £60,000 needed for them to continue into the next year.

The threatened projects offer a chance for 14 to 25-year-olds with disabilities to live normal lives, with social activities and teaching of essential life skills.

They have no funding since National Lottery and Northern Rock Foundation cash grants dried up.

Coun King said he wants to explore options such as SNAPPY working together with the council's youth service; ways in which the council might be able to help through offering free use of services and property; and offering the charity use of the council's financial experts.

Generous York residents and businesses have already donated nearly £5,000, but much more is needed. The Rotary Club of York Vikings yesterday handed the charity £500.

President-elect Brian Nuttell said: "We hope that this donation will encourage other organisations to contribute."

SNAPPY's executive officer Anne Pemberton said: "The fact is two essential projects will close at the end of the month unless we can get money urgently."

Donations from businesses to keep the group going can be made to SNAPPY, Burton Stone Community Centre, Evelyn Crescent, York YO3 6DR, or telephone 01904 640562.