DONATIONS have reached £2,000 for Dartmouth and District Food Bank's fuel poverty appeal this winter.
Food bank manager Dawn Shepherd said money had continued to come in since the plight of struggling householders was highlighted in the Chronicle.
'The response has been marvelous,' she said. 'Beyond our dreams'.
As well has helping those struggling with heating and lighting costs, the charity is collecting gifts which will be distributed to children from needy families in and around Dartmouth on Christmas Eve.
Hampers are also made up for the elderly and a free Christmas lunch will be served up at the community cafe for those spending the festive season alone.
Charity vouchers are being sold, which may be the perfect present to help the event go with a swing.
'The vouchers work in the same way as buying a goat for Africa or vouchers from the Salvation Army to feed a homeless person for Christmas,' said Dawn.
'You buy them as someone's card or present for Christmas and the donation buys a dinner for one of our clients.
'We could give people young and old a fantastic Christmas if we sell all of our vouchers.
'Any money left over will fund goody bags for the people we'll be taking to the Dartmouth Players' pantomime again this year, so they don't have to find the money for refreshments.'
Names are now being taken for the Christmas lunch, which will include a visit from Santa and music.
Takeaway meals will also be provided for those with mobility problems or those who care for someone who is housebound.
Dawn thanked Compass office shop for printing the vouchers free of charge and those outlets who are selling them.
They can be obtained from The Singing Kettle, Skippers, the Old Market Cafe or the food bank itself, which is now open every Wednesday from noon to 2pm at the Ivy Lane youth centre.
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