CHRISTMAS will be a happier time for homeless people in the city thanks to the generosity of hundreds of York schoolchildren.

Pupils at Millthorpe Secondary School have been collecting food and clothing for the Arc Light Project, based in Union Terrace, and for the York branch of the Salvation Army.

The school’s head of English, Gareth Davies, said: “It is the time of year when the weather gets colder, the nights are darker and longer, and at the same time the city is packed with shoppers preparing for the Christmas period. “It is therefore a perfect time for us, as a school, to reflect on the things we take for granted and to think about people who are less fortunate. “This Christmas, Millthorpe School hopes to make a difference to the homeless people living within our community.

“We have been in touch with two local charities that are working to make life easier for people living in extreme poverty in York – the Salvation and the York Arc Light Project.

“The Salvation Army are particularly looking for spare winter clothing – warm gloves, thick socks, scarves, jumpers and hats and the Arc Light Project needs tinned food such as beans, tuna, vegetables, or soups.

“We’ve got a rather large collection bin in the reception hall that is already brimming over with hundreds of tins and clothing items thanks to everyone’s generosity.”

Mr Davies urged more people to donate tins and clothing before the end of term.

“We would be very grateful for any spare tinned food or clean winter clothing that anyone has at home.

“Items should be brought into school and given to form tutors during registration,” he said. “At the end of term these will be taken to each charity in time for Christmas.”

Alternatively, financial contributions can be made. Cheques should be made payable to Millthorpe School and handed to form tutors.

Any money raised will be divided between the two charities.

The school will be hosting a charity disco to boost the appeal next Thursday. The night – entitled It’s A Tin To Get In – is supported by local businesses who have donated prizes for competitions on the night.

“There are more than 1,000 students at Millthorpe School and this could allow us to make a very positive impact on the lives of people in real need,” said Mr Davies.