London City Airport has donated £5,000 to homelessness charity Crisis, to help people at risk this Christmas.

The cash will pay for 300 beds for a homeless shelter in East London, helping to provide a safe place for vulnerable people and where they will also have access to support and advice.

More than 6,000 people slept rough at some point in London last year – a 62 per cent increase in just two years.

Liam McKay, Head of Community Relations at the airport said: “While passengers are flying through the airport to be with their loved ones, there are people on our doorstep who will be homeless this Christmas. Homelessness devastates lives and I hope our donation will go some way towards helping ease that devastation over the Christmas period and beyond.”

Crisis at Christmas offers support and companionship during the holiday period and helps people to take their first steps out of homelessness. It first opened its doors in 1972, when hundreds of homeless guests were fed and accommodated in a small church in central London. In 2012, almost 3,500 guests enjoyed a range of comforts across nine dedicated centres, supported by some 8,000 volunteers.

The charity not only provides immediate help for homeless people at a critical time, but also sets them up for a more positive year ahead. Guests receive healthcare and specialist advice on housing, work and benefits, as well as food, accommodation, entertainment and companionship.

Leslie Morphy, Chief Executive of Crisis, said: “Without the support of organisations like London City Airport, Crisis at Christmas simply could not happen, so a big thank you must be said for their generosity. This Christmas their donation will help hundreds of homeless people have the chance of a safe, happy Christmas and provide the opportunity for a more positive New Year.”