A SOUTH Gloucestershire charity is asking for help after the numbers of people facing homelessness have doubled.
Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire, which is based in Yate, has launched its Christmas Appeal for donations, which this year focuses on its work tackling homelessness.
The charity used to support around 100 people per year facing homelessness, but this number rose to 203 in 2024, with a similar number likely by the end of this year.
They put this increase down to the cost of living crisis, with people using their savings to pay higher bills or falling into debt.
Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire, which offers free, confidential and independent advice, is highlighting the growing homelessness issue in the county.
It is reliant on donations and grants to continue its work and support those in need.
Chantal Watts, CEO of Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire, said: "No one should be homeless at any time of year - particularly at Christmas, a time associated with happiness and celebration.
"Our advisers work extremely hard to help people facing homelessness.
"We are seeing more and more people with homelessness issues, showing the devastating impact of the cost-of-living crisis for many families and individuals in South Gloucestershire.
"Any amount will make a difference - thank you for your support."
The charity aims to help residents facing homelessness, going through the process with them and making sure that they know their rights.
The charity's debt advisers can arrange for someone with unmanageable debt to be placed on 'breathing space' - putting a temporary stop to evictions for rent arrears, as well as a host of other debt management measures.
And the charity's When Advice Really Matters (WARM) project provides ongoing, holistic support to those with mental health needs which are being made more difficult by practical issues such as homelessness.
A man named Chris, who had been repeatedly made homeless, said: "When I first started with WARM, I was homeless and completely stuck.
"I felt completely alone and unsupported."
He praised an adviser at the charity for changing everything.
He said: "When you donate, your support goes directly to helping someone like me: a neighbour, a member of the community, someone who just needs a bit of help to stand up again."
Money donated to the Christmas Appeal will support front-line advisers tackling homelessness in South Gloucestershire.
Donations can be made quickly and securely as a one-off payment or regular standing order via Paypal at: https://bit.ly/4rzFF5F
It can also be given as a cheque, or through a cash donation in the reception area of the charity's new centre at Unit 1 Badminton Court, Station Road, Yate BS37 5HZ.
More information about how to donate or reach out to the charity can be found at the Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire website.