A Connecticut charity is donating gift bags and bedding to families in need this weekend.

This weekend in Connecticut the Bridgeport Rescue Mission is bringing warmth and comfort to hundreds of people as part of its Sleeping Bag and Bedtime Bag Give-Away.

Held at the mission’s Nehemiah Commission building in Bridgeport on Saturday December 15th, men, women and children will be able to receive sleeping bags to ensure they are never without a bed.

The Bridgeport News.com reports that children will also be given gift bags filled with a cuddly toy animal, toothbrush, toothpaste, washcloth, soap and a bedtime story book.

Speaking to the newspaper, Terry Wilcox, the mission’s executive director, said: “There are so many people in our community who don’t even know where they’re going to sleep on any given night.

“We want to make sure they’re warm and comfortable no matter where they lay their heads, And we need everyone’s help to make this heart-warming project possible.”

Residents and charity volunteers are being asked to purchase and donate new adult-size sleeping bags, as well as gifts for the children’s bedtime bags.

All of these items can be delivered to the centre, or bought online through donations to the charity’s website.

At the event, Bridgeport Rescue Mission will be celebrating the festive season with a live outdoor nativity scene, with Christmas carols and holiday music, courtesy of local churches and organisations.

As well as the sleeping bag project the mission will continue its holiday tradition of giving away new and slightly-used coats.

Mr Wilcox went on to thank everyone for their help in making the charitable work such a success.

“We truly appreciate our sponsors who fund and support the operating expenses that enable the mission to launch vital community programs for the working poor and homeless, such as our Sleeping Bag and Bedtime Bag Give-Away,” he added.

Shopping Bags Direct is a leading retailer of Gift Bags. We offer them in many colours and sizes so please contact us for further information.