A NEW campaign to rid York of bogus beggars has deflected attention from the city's genuinely homeless population.

So last night's fifth birthday party for the Arc Light hostel was a timely reminder that people are still sleeping rough on our streets.

Most of us can banish the winter blues at the flick of a thermostat. But an unlucky few would be shivering in sub-zero temperatures every night if it weren't for Arc Light.

This is a truly pioneering project. Five years ago, York's spiralling number of rough sleepers was serious enough to attract Government attention - and funding.

The existing shelter on Peasholme Green could not cope with demand, so the cash went to create Arc Light in a former railway office block, one of only four hostels of its kind in Britain.

By offering food, shelter and friendship to rough sleepers, Arc Light was a terrific example of Christian principles in action. But it has never attempted to preach to its residents.

Instead everyone is asked to adhere to a few simple policies: no violence, no drink or drugs consumed on the premises. Arc Light has always treated its residents with respect, rather than as a sub-group of humanity.

The project's dedicated workers have done a great service for homeless people and for this city. We wish them every success with their search for a new and better home.

Updated: 11:08 Friday, December 10, 2004