Christmas Stockings for Newcastle's homeless

A Newcastle homeless charity are hoping we can help rough sleepers this Christmas

Newcastle Street Friends are launching their Christmas Stocking appeal

Asking people to donate a stocking with a gift inside - things like chocolates or toiletries

John Marshall is the founder - he explains how people reacted when he was giving out gifts last year;

“I think the reactions we got last year were ‘we appreciate what you do for us, we appreciate the gifts and the support.

“Everyone was grateful – just something little would make somebody happier, just to show them they are loved and wanted and we are there to support them.”

John explains what they’re hoping people will donate;

“Anything that will just put a smile on somebody’s face; pen, paper and a stamp, or a card, just so they can write to somebody like a loved one – a family member they’ve not spoken to,

“Or just somebody to say ‘hi – I’m after a bit of help’.

“Just something little to give to them.”

Street Friends will be collecting donations all this week – to hand out around the end of November, to help the hundreds of rough sleepers and vulnerable people in Newcastle and Gateshead.

To find out how to donate or support the group you can message them on Facebook

You can also find more info by searching Newcastle Street Friends on Facebook.