A HOMELESS charity in Worcester is appealing for help to make it a Christmas to remember for its clients.

Every day Maggs Day Centre, in St Albans, Deansway, caters for more than 100 people who are in need of a hot meal and chat.

Chairman Rob Peachey is appealing to Evening News readers to help raise enough cash to make this Christmas special for the increasing number of families now using the centre.

"This is a new phenomenon, but we are seeing homeless parents coming in with their children as this is the only way they can get food," said Mr Peachey.

"Since we formed back in 1984 we have seen a year-on-year increase in clients and now have to raise a minimum of £105,000 each year to survive.

"A charity like Maggs can only exist with the goodwill of the public."

"Each morning we arrive to open the centre to be met by, on average, 22 people who have slept rough overnight in parks, empty buildings or derelict factories.

"Each day we serve 30 breakfasts and 70 lunches to those who may well not eat at all were we not here.

"On Christmas Day we want to do something special for our users so they know the spirit of Christmas hasn't passed them by."

He said Maggs staff treated homeless people with dignity, helped them with a clothing exchange, provided blankets and showers and helped them find a better way of life.

"We aim to re-settle one person every month and put others in touch with social workers and help develop a care plan for those who want help," Mr Peachey added.

"We offer more than tea and sympathy but desperately needs funds to keep going over the festive season."

Anyone who would like to support the work of centre is asked to contact Maggs, Deansway, Worcester, WR1 2JD.