More people were in need this holiday season and there is likely to be an increased demand for feeding services in the winter months, said Major Shawn Critch of The Salvation Army.The charity’s annual holiday assistance programme saw a jump in the amount of people needing food by nearly 300, which is 15 percent higher than last year.In addition its meal programme at North Street Citadel continues to provide an average of 50 meals, five nights a week, Major Critch said.Its mobile feeding programme, which provides soup and sandwiches to the needy in Hamilton, is providing the same amount of meals as last year; and the shelter consistently maintains near full occupancy of 50-53 homeless people on any given night, he explained.“The colder than normal month of December, coupled with the downturn in the economy, will certainly result in an increased demand on our services to the community as we head into the next three months.“Based upon last year’s numbers I would anticipate an increase as we head into the winter months,” added Major Critch.Major Critch said the charity did a preliminary review of the rise in those needing general assistance outside of the Christmas programme.He said earlier this summer the charity experienced an even more drastic jump.In the period from April to July there was an 85 percent increase in the number of people coming to the feeding bank compared to the same months in 2009.“Based upon preliminary numbers I have looked at I would be surprised if it increased further. But I think we will hold around the 75 to 85 percent increase year over year.“It is a huge increase. We had our budget set for the year not anticipating the increase would be at the level it was.“Our budget for food provisions has long been spent and we are having to dip into reserves and appeal to the public,” he added.According to Major Critch the charity would not have coped with the increased demand over the holidays were it not for the community stepping forward.Major Critch said: “Given the current economic realities we anticipate this trend will continue into the foreseeable future. We will continue to rely on direct public support to meet the basic services we seek to provide each year.“People coming to the shelter pretty much reflect that of previous years,” he said, adding that there always seemed to be those homeless people who would “not avail to shelter services”.The Salvation Army also provided warm clothes like caps, gloves and personal care items to every one who joined them at North Street Citadel for the annual Christmas dinner.“In addition to this we have many partnerships within the community, and especially within the faith community, where shoe boxes and other items for the homeless are prepared and provided during the nightly mobile feeding programme.“We try to always have extra blankets and sweaters available as well,” he said, adding that they are always seeking donations for these items.He said: “The generosity of the people of Bermuda and the corporate community has been most encouraging. It has provided the basis of our ability to assist the marginalised and struggling people of our community.“We had to do things a little different this year to meet the needs but we were able to meet the demands. Thank you to everyone who supported our work.“Is there a need for greater services? There will always be a need ... and an opportunity. We are committed to our God-given mission. We work to make a difference in the lives of those we serve by offering hope and dignity through a simple hot meal, a glass of water, a warm bed, a clean sweater, transportation to the doctor or a visit at the prison.“To share the love of Jesus Christ through simple acts of kindness and compassion ... sometimes with words, but more often without them.”Anyone who is interested in donating funds can contact Major Critch; while those willing to donate blankets are urged to contact Lionel Cann. Both can be reached on 292-0601.