FREE Christmas dinners will keep on coming at Southend’s homeless centres, thanks to generous donations to an appeal by the charity, Harp.

The charity appealed to businesses to back its the Christmas Dinner Appeal and help it provide as many as 700 meals for local homeless people.

Among the companies which responded is Simply Better Services and Winns Security, based in Westcliff, which has donated £1,000 to the appeal.

Company director Rob Stillwell said “As we are one of the significant employers in Southend, with more than 200 staff, we fully recognise we have a responsibility to help and support those who are less fortunate.

“We are very aware of the amazing service Harp provides for the local homeless and we have supported its efforts in the past.

“However, when we were informed of its fantastic initiative to provide as many as 700 dinners over the Christmas period to people who wouldn’t otherwise enjoy such an uplifting experience, we simply had to make a gesture to help the Harp team in its efforts.

“I hope other local businesses will also consider helping Harp by making donations to show people who are disadvantaged there are people within our local community who really do care about their welfare and wellbeing.”

Harp provides emergency accommodation in a 14-bed night shelter in Southend and a day centre in Valkyrie Road, Westcliff, where the lunches will start to be served tomorrow .

To make a donation to Harp’s Christmas appeal, send a cheque for at least £10, payable to Harp Ltd.

4th Floor, Dencora Court, Tylers Avenue, Southend SS1 2BB, donate online at harpsouthend.org.uk or text HOME43 followed by £10 to 70070.