The Salvation Army has dismissed claims that it has a poor record on LGBT rights.

The Christian-based homeless charity has had its record called into question several times – with an Australian Salvation Army chief suggesting in 2012 that sexually active gay people should be put to death.

In March this year, a homeless trans woman was allegedly left on the streets in Dallas, after the Salvation Army refused her housing.

Ahead of the charity’s annual Christmas fundraising campaign, several posts have been circulating on social media, making people aware of the organisation’s alleged poor record.

However, the organisation continues to dispute “untrue” accusations that it has problems with homophobia and transphobia – referring to claims as a “myth”.

A post carried by several US branches says: “For years, Facebook posts, forwarded emails and rumours have been leading some people to believe that The Salvation Army does not serve members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBTQ) community.

“These accusations simply aren’t true.

“Since its founding nearly 150 years ago, The Salvation Army has lived out its mission: To meet human needs in His name, without discrimination.

“People who come to the Army for assistance will be served according to their need and our capacity to help -regardless of race, gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

“Any instance of discrimination is in direct opposition to our core beliefs and is against all of our policies.

“The Salvation Army embraces employees of many different faiths and orientations and abides by all applicable anti-discrimination laws in its hiring.

“We need your help in debunking the myth of LGBTQ discrimination. It can persuade people not to give, which in turn diminishes our resources and our ability to serve people in crisis.”