Write a letter to send to local people to persuade them to send in donations to a particular charity.

To be able to keep these centres up and running, we need your help.

A contribution from you could stop many people from dying on the streets.

Every year, millions of people are made homeless, for many different reasons. And, it's especially bad at this time of year. The weather is so bad and most of the people living on the streets are lucky to have a blanket. So while you're worrying that you haven't got enough presents, or the turkey's getting burnt, think of the people who will be worrying if they'll get a shop doorway to sleep in tonight.

The government and private donations give funding, but we still need your help.

Your money could help employ many volunteers, such as

* Kitchen

* Transportation

* Clothing Room

* Maintenance

* Literacy Courses

* Art Lessons

* Computer Training. We are also constantly needing: -

* Food

* Clothing

* Laundry Soap

* Toiletries

* Books ~ Magazines

* Maintenance Supplies

* Bus Tickets (To send Clients to work)

* Card games

One particular girl, Sally*, has her own story to tell.

"I was 15 when I first ran away. For 3 years, my step dad had abused me. My mother knew what was going on, but was too afraid to do anything, or leave him. So I decided to leave.

I travelled to London, thinking it would be easy to live on the streets. But I never thought how difficult it would be. On my first night, I was mugged, beaten up, and left alone. If it weren't for a shelter volunteer, who found me on the road, and took me back to one of the centres, I might not be here today.

At Shelter, I was offered a bed and food, and counselling. They helped me get back on my feet, and get myself a job. I now have a house and family, and do volunteer work for Shelter whenever I can."

With your help, we can help many more people like Sally. All we ask of you is a small donation, whatever you can spare. But please, try and give something.

I want to thank you for taking the time to read this letter, and hope you give generously to this very worthy cause. (I have included a freepost envelope to encourage a speedy response.)

Yours Sincerely,