A CHARITY for the homeless is asking the community to give a little something to those less fortunate this Christmas.

The Gatehouse, which provides food and shelter for the city’s homeless from its base at St Giles Parish Rooms, is hoping people living on the streets will be be treated to some seasonal goodwill.

It is looking for essential items to fill 200 Christmas parcels which will be wrapped and handed out to the homeless.

Andrew Smith, project director at The Gatehouse, said: “We’re asking people to pop an extra couple of items into their shopping baskets in the run up to Christmas. That will really make a huge difference to Oxford’s homeless.

“December 25 is just another day to someone living on the streets.

“We’re trying to make it special by putting together packages to help people throughout the day, ensuring they know that people do care.”

Mr Smith is looking for new clothing such as socks, pants, gloves, scarves and hats as well as chocolate.

Donations can be dropped off by lunchtime on Tuesday, December 20.

Contact Mr Smith on 07773 333728 or email gateho@aol.com to arrange a suitable drop-off time and place.