The message from many is clear: Charity begins at home.

Today’s Oxford Mail investigation unveils a new impact of the recession.

Charity groups are fighting to make ends meet with redundancies and cut backs in the people they help.

Ithaca, a mental health organisation based in East Oxford, will close its doors later this month.

And, truth is, we did not have to delve far to find more charities struggling to keep themselves afloat.

Dozens of groups are battling declining donations and vanishing grants as the purse strings are tied up.

The Charities Commission has suggested groups working together and combing resources.

The cruel irony is many of the charities under threat offer services which could help communities and families as the credit crunch pinches.

Homeless projects are a prime example.

It is understandble that in these times of mounting economic pressure people focus on paying the bills.

And a glance at the latest job figures – also in today’s Oxford Mail – show the picture isn’t getting any rosier.

People take a look at their bank statement and cancel not only the direct debits to the gym, but also the monthly payments to charities.

But if you can’t afford the cash, maybe some volunteer time or donations to charity shops?

Fundraising and taking part in a host of events – Moonlight Stroll, OX5, Race for Life, take your pick – is another way to help.

The success of Comic Relief proves there is still enough in the pot, people still want to give.

So, spare a thought for the county’s struggling charities. We will miss them when they are gone.