I RECENTLY received a donation of £100 from a gentleman who was entitled to the pensioners' Winter Fuel allowance from the Department of Social Security.

He said in his letter he did not need the money, and so sent it to us so that it could be used to help those less fortunate.

He also suggested that The Salvation Army might start a campaign to get others to donate similarly.

We, at The Salvation Army, know that there are thousands of needy senior citizens in our communities who are in desperate need of their winter fuel allowance, as well as any other help which they can get.

We are daily endeavouring to help the elderly, the homeless, and those who are just struggling to make ends meet.

Through our 52 church and community centres in the region, we provide accommodation, food parcels, lunches, as well as a listening ear and a friendly environment to meet.

As the days get colder and Christmas approaches, the requests for help will increase, and stretch our resources to the limit, but we will endeavour to meet every need.

However, as the gentleman has suggested, I am sure that there are others who are fortunate enough to be in the position to help desperately needy people this winter by donating either part, or all of their own Winter Fuel Allowance to assist the caring work of The Salvation Army.

I would stress, however, that this appeal is only to those who can afford to forego their allowance.

If your readers feel able to help donations, payable to The Salvation Army should be sent to: 6 & 8 Little Park Farm Road, Segensworth West, Fareham, PO15 5TD.

ADRIAN CLEE,

Fundraising Officer,

The Salvation Army,

Fareham.