HOMELESS people do not have to sleep rough on the streets this Christmas.

That's the message coming from caring York charities today.

Every December, the plight of homelessness is under increased focus, but in the spirit of giving, agencies across the city are teaming up to make Christmas a special day for people without a home in York.

At City of York Council-owned Peasholme Centre, workers say they will be providing a welcoming environment for people taking a bed.

Lesley Healey, of the council's community services team, said: "We will be doing our best to make Christmas real for people staying with us over the period. What we want to stress is that there should be no need to sleep on the streets this Christmas.

"We have 22 beds which are open all over the period and we will be able to assist people who need emergency accommodation. Peaseholme is a welcoming environment and the hostel will be open as always."

At the Salvation Army centre, in Gillygate, Christmas dinner and entertainment will be provided for anyone who finds themselves alone on December 25.

Major Paul Westlake, commanding officer, said: "Our message to people is, if you are own your own, you will be more than welcome this Christmas at the Salvation Army."

- Meanwhile, the Housing Advice Research Project, based in Northallerton, which helps to relieve homelessness, is to get a £2,000 grant from the district council.

Updated: 09:36 Saturday, December 22, 2001