The chief of a cash-strapped multi-cultural charity has suffered a heart attack after trying to save his "baby" from closure.
Tahir Khan launched the Unity Multicultural Centre in 1980 in a bid to bridge gaps between Sunderland's ethnic communities.
He has spent three days in hospital after a heart attack triggered by stress.
He said: "I had a heart attack through worry over the future of Unity. I have carried this organisation as my baby and it's such a shame to see it going down."
In April, the Echo made an urgent appeal for funds to help save the organisation, in Whitehall Terrace, off Hylton Road, when it had just £160 left in its bank account.
But now Unity, which provides advice, information and guidance on issues such as housing, debt, immigration, benefits, and employment, is in debt and is forced to borrow money to pay the monthly £1,500 bills to keep afloat.
Mr Khan said some businesses have come forward, but he is waiting for funding applications to go through.
"We provide vulnerable people in need with help and the work we do fills in the gap – our role is unique," he said.
"If we do not find money soon we will have to shut and close our doors to the hundreds of people that rely on us."
Mr Khan, who spent three days in Sunderland Royal Hospital last month, is still undergoing treatment. He has received messages from thousands of well-wishers.
"I have had church groups praying for me, with one woman saying she said a three-hour prayer," he said.
"I would love to continue to help people. We are all volunteers here and all we want is the whole community to be part of us.
"We care for the human race and were actually the first organisation to bring race relations to the city and encourage others to do this.
"We have no religious ties and just want to bring unity."
About 10 people currently use the organisation, which is open five days a week, but Mr Khan said it may soon only be open once a week.
Cheques can be made out to Unity Organisation and sent to 29 Whitehall Terrace, Hylton Road, Sunderland, SR4 7SR, or phone 0191 5659990.
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