A BOURNEMOUTH charity is running a Christmas campaign to bring a smile to the faces of supported housing residents.

The YMCA's Prezzies for Rezzies initiative invites local people to donate new or nearly new gifts to those living in supported housing, who have previously slept rough and are now in the process of fighting to stay off the streets and move forward with their lives.

Some have no social connections and will not be invited home for Christmas, while for others, "homes" is a stark reminder of a difficult past.

Hostel accommodation and supporter worker Steven Smith said: "You cannot imagine the difference it makes to our residents for them to feel that they are remembered at Christmas: that someone cares enough to send them a gift.

“The road to recovery and a positive long-term future is a challenging one: a little kindness can do a lot to help them get there.”

YMCA Bournemouth suggests the following: socks, sweets, stationery, art materials, calendars, diaries, colouring pencils, paints, colouring books for adults, toiletries, gift sets, hair accessories, food (no alcohol), DVDs, games and puzzles. They ask that these items remain unwrapped as the charity selects gifts appropriate for each resident.

Gifts can be dropped off at YMCA Bournemouth at Delta House in Westover Road, Bournemouth; The Junction Sports and Leisure Centre in Station Approach, Broadstone and at Pokesdown and Southbourne Children’s Centre in Stourvale Road, Southbourne.