A charity has issued an urgent appeal for residents and businesses to help the homeless this Christmas.

Feed the Hungry Heart feeds, clothes and entertains about 100 regular guests every week at the Christian Community Centre in Pears Road, Hounslow.

But volunteers are gearing up for the festive season, when they plan to lay on even more services between Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.

Project coordinator Nico Effiong said he hoped Christmas Together 2008 would help transform the lives of Hounslow's most disadvantaged citizens.

"We have seen many lives changed through the assistance we provide with issues such as housing, benefits, detoxification referrals, drug and alcohol support and sending people to rehabilitation centres," he added.

"We hope to reach out to more people in the community this Christmas and we are appealing to members of the public and local businesses to do what they can to help."

The charity will provide services at two centres over Christmas.

Maswell Park Evangelical Church, in Inwood Road, will be dedicated to food and entertainment, while Hounslow Christian Community Church will offer showers, clothes, haircuts and health treatments like massages and eye tests.

Patrick Rowan, who has been homeless since being evicted from his flat in Grove Road, Hounslow, in July, is typical of those who will benefit from the festive services.

"It's very easy to become homeless and facilities like these make such a difference at this difficult time of year," said the 54-year-old former forklift truck driver.

Nico urged people to make this year the most successful yet by offering their time, expertise or any donations.

"Typical items people could donate include food, essential clothing, cleaning materials and toiletries, materials for art and craft work," he said.

"Whether it's helping out in the kitchen, serving the food, or if you're a health professional and can provide specialised care, or a hairdresser, we would be very grateful for any time or support you can give."

The charity will hold an induction next Saturday (20), from 1-2.30pm, for those wanting to help with the catering.

Anyone interested in helping out should call Nico on 07767 626 247 or email: feedthehungryheart@mail.com