The centre in Mitchell Close was facing closure at the end of February after the Belvedere Community Forum announced it could no longer continue running it.
Residents were worried about losing the services they rely on, from fitness classes and tuition to social groups and the community fridge.
Age UK Bexley has had offices at the centre for four years and has now taken over with the agreement of Bexley Council.
The arrangement will last for three months while discussions take place with the local community and other charities about its long-term future.
For now, some key services will continue. The community fridge will open on Tuesdays from 10am to noon.
Stay and Play for toddlers will run on Tuesdays from 9.30am to 11.30am. The community café will also open on Tuesdays, with hopes to extend its hours soon.
A spokesperson for Age UK Bexley said they stepped in because they knew how important the centre was to the people who use it.
They said: “We decided we would like to keep the centre running as we know how important it is for the local community. Bexley Council has agreed, although at this stage, it is only for three months.
“Over that period, there will be consultation with the community and other charities before a final decision is made.”
The Belvedere Community Forum, which has managed the centre since 1999, had previously said it was with a “heavy heart” that they could no longer continue.
A spokesperson for the forum said: “It is with a heavy heart that we need to tell you that the Belvedere Community Forum is unable to continue running the Belvedere Community Centre and that unless the council or another organisation is found to run the centre, the community centre may have to close on 28 February 2025.
“If you have a regular room or space hire with us, you will be able to use the centre as normal until 28 February.
“We remain hopeful another organisation will be able to take on the running of the centre.
“We are actively seeking another organisation that can take over the management of the community centre to ensure that this vital resource remains available to you and the wider community.
“However, there is the possibility that this does not happen or there is a time between us ceasing to run the centre and another organisation taking on the responsibility.
“We deeply appreciate your support and engagement with the Belvedere Community Centre over the years.
“Your involvement has been invaluable, and we are committed to finding a solution that will allow the community centre to continue serving your needs.
“Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time.”
The news that Age UK Bexley has stepped in offers some relief, but there is still uncertainty about what will happen once the three-month period ends.
A petition calling for changes in management and demanding the centre’s survival has now gathered more than 400 signatures.
Many residents fear the vital services the centre provides could still be lost.
