Dobbies Garden Centre is spreading festive cheer among homelessness community Emmaus Preston, with the donation of a fantastic Nordmann Fir Christmas tree.
The Emmaus charity was selected for the giveaway by the local branch of Dobbies, as part of Not Your Average Community campaign, in partnership with Needlefresh.
Emmaus provides a home, support, and meaningful work for up to 26 people with experience of homelessness in Preston. Together, they run the largest charity store in the country, Emmaus Preston Megastore, alongside two other outlets on Fishergate in Preston, selling new and secondhand goods to raise funds for the homeless community.
The Christmas tree will form the centrepiece at Emmaus Preston’s community home on Ribbleton Lane in Preston for people building back from homelessness.
Dobbies’ Horticultural Director, Marcus Eyles, said: “We’re proud to be in a position where we can support local communities, so thank you to Needlefresh for supporting us with this campaign.
“The Nordmann Fir is the most popular Christmas tree in the UK because it loses very few needles, meaning your tree will remain green and full, with the right care. It’s the perfect tree for our Not Your Average Community campaign.”
Needlefresh Managing Director, George Hood, added: “We take great pride in growing our sustainable trees and are excited to partner up with Dobbies on this brilliant community initiative. We look forward to seeing community groups across Preston decorating and enjoying their sustainably grown, real Christmas tree.”
Director of Emmaus Preston Stephen Buchanan said: “We are delighted with the donation of a fir Christmas tree from Dobbies. Having a real tree on display will help us recreate a family-style environment, to help people supported here celebrate Christmas. It’s not an easy time of year for many, so we’re grateful to local businesses and organisations who can help make this Christmas special.”
If you would like to donate decorations for the charity’s new tree please drop these off to Emmaus Preston’s shops. Please donate items here or you can make a monetary donation here.