Hunter Hands of Hope will no longer be able to operate from its Vincent Street premises as of January 22.

The charity started out as a food drive in the Cessnock TAFE park in December last year, and has evolved into an outreach service, moving into the Vincent Street shopfront in April.

The volunteer-run service provides meals for 25-to-40 people four nights a week, along with breakfast packs and toiletries, and helps people to find housing and related services, with the Samaritans referring clients to them on a weekly basis.

Melissa Gontier - who founded the organisation with her mum Julie Hall - said it's not viable to return to the park.

"The service is so much more than meals now... it's an outreach service that has been modelled on the needs of the clients," she said.

"It's their safe haven."

Ms Gontier thanked the building owner for her generosity and support, which included the first 10 weeks rent-free (until they built up enough funds to pay rent); then reduced rent, and two months' notice to vacate.

"It means we will be able to provide our service over Christmas, which can be a really difficult time for people," she said.

Hunter Hands of Hope receives no government funding, relying on fundraising, community support and grants to cover its costs (including rent and all other outgoings).

Ms Gontier said they are actively searching for premises in or close to the Cessnock CBD, with electricity, water and ample storage space - but have had no luck finding a suitable location.

She said they are trying to remain positive, but conceded they may need a Christmas miracle.

"I just hope that someone in the community can offer us something, even just an interim building where we can operate and leave our stuff," she said.

Ms Gontier's ultimate goal remains for the service to become a community centre, with toilets and showers, a laundry, a kitchen and space for doctor's appointments.

If you can help, call 0400 003 014 or send a message via hunterhandsofhope.com.au or their Facebook page.