Evolution brings festive cheer by supporting Christmas Day dinner for those in need

A North-West-based construction company is helping to spread kindness this festive season by supporting an annual Christmas Day dinner for those in need.

Around 250 people are expected to attend a Christmas Day lunch held for the community in Fleetwood, Lancashire.

Elderly residents, families facing financial hardship, people who are bereaved, individuals experiencing homelessness, and others who may otherwise spend Christmas Day alone, will attend the free lunch at Fleetwood Sea Cadets base, Princes Way.

Heather Johnstone, founder and director of Ember and Blossom CIC, organised the first Christmas Day community lunch six years ago. She has since made it an annual event of festive food and fun activities.

Heather said: “I organised the first Christmas Day dinner as a simple act of kindness, rooted in connection and compassion. At its heart, the event has always been about making sure no-one feels forgotten on Christmas Day.

“Events like this reduce loneliness, create safe spaces for connection, and help people feel valued. It’s not just about a meal. It’s about restoring a sense of belonging and reminding people that their community cares.”

JJ Fitzgerald, managing director of Blackpool-based construction business Evolution, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be continuing our support for such an important and valued event.

“As a fellow local business, we really admire the hard work and dedication that Heather and Ember and Blossom put into the community, particularly during the festive period, when people might be experiencing loneliness or hardship.

"We hope that our donation helps contribute towards creating a truly special and magical day for those in need.”

Heather said: “This kind of support is incredibly important because it allows us to focus our time and energy on the people we are supporting, rather than worrying about whether we can afford the basics.

“Having a local business like Evolution stand alongside us brings stability, confidence, and a real sense of partnership. It shows a genuine commitment to the community and makes a lasting difference to those who need it most.”

Ember and Blossom exists to combat loneliness, poverty, and social isolation through creative and community-led projects.

It became a Community Interest Company (CIC) in January 2025, allowing the project to grow responsibly, access funding, and ensure transparency, while protecting its core values of kindness, inclusivity, and community connection.