The Salvation Army is appealing to Bermuda residents to donate new clothing for new-borns and children up to the age of 12 in time for Christmas giving.

Thanks to its Anonymous Santa programme the organisation has enough toys for the 800 children registered on its list. Now the need is for clothing for the same recipients. Shoes, socks, sweaters, underwear, dresses, shirts, pants and sleepwear are just some of the items it welcomes.

"We emphasise that the clothing must be new, and there is no need to gift wrap it as we will take care of that at our Christmas caring centre before distribution," said Major Mandy Dunnett.

To date, 550 families have registered with the Salvation Army for Christmas assistance, according to community and family services director Janice Dill, and she expects that number to rise to 600 before the holiday begins.

"Some of the families are on social assistance while others are in low-paying jobs where there are insufficient resources to meet all their needs," Mrs. Dill said.

Despite these rising numbers, however, Major Dunnett proudly announced that no one would miss out on a traditional Christmas dinner.

"All of our Christmas hampers will include a turkey or poultry, fresh vegetables and fruit, and all the trimmings," she said. "The average hamper will be worth approximately $80."

Funding for these hampers comes from the Salvation Army's current Red Shield Appeal.

"I think it is really important for the people of Bermuda to realise that in supporting the December appeal they are supporting not only the distribution of the Christmas hampers throughout Bermuda but also other Salvation Army community services programmes," Major Dunnett said.

The Red Shield Appeal takes place biannually in May and December.

Major Dunnett noted that many agencies, businesses and citizens donated food, clothing and toys to its Christmas programmes, and she appealed for their further assistance at this time.

In addition to its Anonymous Santa, clothing and hamper programmes, the Salvation Army is hosting its annual Christmas dinner for the homeless and lonely at the Hamilton Citadel hall this evening from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Complimentary tickets can be picked up from the Emergency Housing Complex or the Harbour Light Centre.

Anyone wishing to assist with the above appeals should call the Salvation Army's Christmas cheer centre at 292-5159 for further information.