Festive Friends, an initiative led by Dundee United Community Trust (DUCT) to deliver Christmas meals to those who are isolated and in need of some support on Christmas Day, is back for the third year running in 2020.

Slightly different from previous years where the Christmas meal was held at Tannadice Park, this year the DUCT have joined forces with leading residential care provider Balhousie Care Group to deliver Christmas meals to individuals and families in their own home.

Determined to still give people in need a meal on Christmas Day, the DUCT approached Balhousie Care Group who were “thrilled” to be involved and agreed to prepare a Christmas lunch for 120 individuals on Christmas Day. The Trust will arrange an army of excellent volunteers to deliver the hot lunches to people’s homes.

In addition to delivery of a hot Christmas Day meal and gifts, the Community Trust will give each of the meal recipients a friendly call on Christmas Day.

Thanks to the fantastic efforts of the Team DUCT Kiltwalkers, over £4,800 has been raised so far for the Christmas meal for local people that may not have any family with whom to spend Christmas Day and families that may need extra support at this time of year.

David Dorward, the DUCT Chairman said: “We like to think we make a difference throughout the year but being able to deliver a festive meal on Christmas Day is extra special and we couldn’t do it without a wonderful band of committed volunteers. We also need the help of the community to identify and encourage people who might be on their own on Christmas Day to get in touch so that we can give them a happier Christmas Day. If you know of someone who would benefit from our Christmas Day meal, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.”

A spokesperson for Balhousie Care Group said: “We’re thrilled to be helping with such an excellent community initiative. Combating loneliness is especially important around Christmas and particularly this year, so bravo to Dundee Community Trust for coming up with an innovative solution to its Festive Friends initiative.”

Dundee United Community Trust are starting to get in touch with organisations and groups that would know of individuals or families that may like to receive our support on the day. However, if you know of anyone that may benefit from some company and support on the day, please get in touch at enquiries@dundeeunitedct.co.uk.  Should you wish to donate a present for our guests to give them a fantastic Christmas Day, please email the Community Trust at enquiries@dundeeunitedct.co.uk.

There is still time to sponsor Team DUCT at https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/DUCTFestiveFriends2020 and help to give people an amazing Christmas experience.