THE Night Ninjas organisation that helps people who are homeless has appealed for support for its Christmas project to help the needy on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.
Founder Alix Russo said the islands were the main focus because many residents were struggling financially.
It comes months after organisations working with people who are homeless, state government and Redland City Council identified 108 homeless people - including 15 children - in the Redlands, mostly at Cleveland and Redland Bay.
Ms Russo said that 92 of the 108 people were housed through the project as a result of the organisations and government working together.
She said some people moved to the islands because there was affordable housing but struggled with costs like car registrations and public transport.
"People are coming to the Salvos on Mondays where we give away free groceries," Ms Russo said. "They bring their trolleys and fill up.
"They are able to pay their rent on the islands but then try to juggle money for other costs like food and bills."
She said Night Ninjas was asking for donations of swimwear, board shorts, swimming caps, sun cream, goggles, thongs, stationery, backpacks, lunch boxes, school shoes, children's underpants and toiletries.
The items will be distributed shortly before Christmas so that parents do not have to worry about paying for school supplies in the new year.
"Secondhand items - like school shoes and backpacks - that are in a good condition are welcome," Ms Russo said.
Night Ninjas recently fitted out a van obtained through a $35,000 gambling grant. The vehicle enables the organisation's volunteers to prepare and deliver food and supplies in the community.
"The van means we can be self-sufficient if we need to be," Ms Russo said.
The organisation has applied for money to buy a shower trailer to be pulled by the van.
The van offers food and hot drinks near the Cleveland train station on Mondays at 7pm.
Donations for the Christmas appeal can be dropped off at Tyrepower Capalaba, 93-95 Redland Bay Road, Capalaba or Cleveland Upholsterers and Marine Trimmers, 4/7 Grant Street, Cleveland.
Volunteer to help Night Ninjas via nightninjas.com.au by completing the online induction.
More information is available via the Night Ninjas Facebook page facebook.com/night.ninjas.inc.
