A lack of resources may force the Salvation Army to close its North Street, Hamilton citadel for the week.

The charity, which has used up its entire October budget, encouraged individuals and businesses to donate food or money to keep the location going until November.

Major Darryl Simms, the corps officer and pastor at the facility, said he had never seen the citadel’s shelves so empty in his 18 months of service.

He explained: “We have always managed on our budget and been able to get by, but this month and in the past few months, there has been an increased demand and it’s been hard to provide for that need.

“We try and be creative as much as possible, but we’ve just fallen short and we’re hoping to get the word out and that there will be a response.

“Our budgets are set, so it would not be next year that we would be able to look at how we may be able to offset that budget in some way, shape or form.”

The Salvation Army assists between 600 and 800 people through its family services and feeding programmes every week.

Major Simms added: “There’s no denying it — people are looking for assistance and we at the Salvation Army are doing our best to try and meet that need.

“The amount of donations have maintained but, with an ever-increasing need, we need more people willing to give and support the Salvation Army moving forward.”

The charity received several donations from individuals and businesses since appealing for assistance yesterday, but needs more to get through this week.

Major Simms is confident that the organisation will raise at least $55,000 through its Christmas kettle campaign this year.

He explained: “If you communicate the message and let people know here in Bermuda, we have the faith to believe that people will respond, give and support our efforts as they have done in the past.

“We appreciate all the support that the people of Bermuda have given to the Salvation Army and continue to give.”

Urgently needed items, which include canned foods and milk, coffee and tea bags, instant formula, oatmeal and cereal, can be dropped off at the facility across from Dellwood Middle School between 9am and 3pm Monday to Friday.

People in need receive a bag full of these and other pantry items at the citadel.

• Money can be delivered in person to North Street, donated viaSalvationArmy.bmor transferred to HSBC account 010-202539-001 (specify: Christmas Kettle)