NHS trust's charity in appeal to help homeless

Paul, who has been helped by the trust, helped launched its winter charity appeal with his dog Cally

A charity has launched a campaign to raise funds to help the homeless over Christmas.

Health Heart Hope charity, which supports Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust, wants to put together winter kits to distribute to those living on the streets.

It is also looking for donated hot water bottles, which cafes across Maidstone have agreed to refill for free between November and March.

Kirsty McInnes, charity and volunteer manager for Health Heart Hope, said: "Homelessness is not a choice, and many people sleeping rough are among the most vulnerable and traumatised in our communities."

Each kit will cost £70 and contain a dry bag, clothing, emergency food vouchers, and a sleeping bag.

The campaign was launched by Paul, who was helped by the health trust when he was homeless.

He said: "I owe my life to the care I received. The team never gave up on me, even when I didn't want to face another day.

"Life is very different now and I'm proud to support this appeal and help develop these kits. I know they will make a real difference, when you're living on the street, knowing someone cares means everything."

Donations of clothing and hot water bottles can be dropped off between 10:00 and 16:00 GMT Monday to Saturday at the following locations:

• Priority House, Hermitage Lane, Maidstone

• Fremlin Walk Centre Management Suite, 62 Earl Street, Maidstone

• Britton House, Britton Farm, High Street, Gillingham