A CHARITY is calling on people to make donations to help the young homeless people it works with.

Nightstop Teesside provides emergency temporary accommodation for homeless young people between the ages of 16 and 25 in the homes of trained volunteer hosts.

The charitable organisation, which is affiliated to Depaul Nightstop UK, helps to provide emergency accommodation for up to three nights, offering them a safe, warm and understanding home environment.

Staff are also available to point young people towards other agencies, make appointments for them and help with benefit applications.

Donations of basic toiletries and clothing are always needed.

Jane Cavana, who manages the centre in Redcar, said: "The young people who come to us normally have very little in way of clothing or toiletries, so these donations are really important to us.

"We always try to give them achange of clothing as well as such things as toothpaste and shampoo, because everyone likes to feel clean. Every little donation helps us and means we can use themoney we save for other services for the young people."

Donations of small household items are also welcome for when the young people eventually get a home. Items such as kettles, toasters, pots and pans will all make a difference to somebody in need.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's Mayor Olwyn Peters, who recently made a donation to the charity on behalf of the authority, said: "I am so pleased that I can help these young people. Staff and members of the council have all donated various goods which will help those most in need.

"This worthy scheme needs the support of contributions from us all so if you could look at home for any unwanted items you can be guaranteed they will be put to good use."

Anyone with anything to donate is asked to call Nightstop on 01642-493929.

For further information on the charity, visit nightstopteesside.co.uk