This December, a little corner of London was transformed into a place of pure magic. Surrey Square Primary School once again blossomed into a glittering Festive Wonderland, as The Caring Family Foundation (TCFF) returned for its fifth year to create a day of joy, generosity, and togetherness for children and their families. What began as a charitable initiative has evolved into one of the community’s most anticipated celebrations, a moment where warmth replaces worry, and wonder fills the air.
This year, excitement filled the school as children welcomed acclaimed actor Will Poulter, whose message of compassion, kindness, and shared humanity set the tone for the day. Alongside teachers, volunteers, and TCFF staff, he helped serve nourishing lunches, hand-prepared by the teams at Bill’s, bringing smiles to many faces.
Against a backdrop of twinkling lights, festive performances, and delicious seasonal dishes, the event captured the very essence of community spirit. Volunteers from Richard and Patricia Caring’s hospitality businesses, including Bill’s and The Birley Clubs, came together once more, embodying a collective dedication to supporting families who face challenging circumstances every day. At Surrey Square Primary School, where 25% of students live in temporary accommodation and 84% experience significant economic hardship, the Festive Wonderland stands as a powerful reminder: hope multiplies when shared.
The celebration marks a key moment in TCFF’s 2025 Food From the Heart Campaign, a nationwide movement addressing the urgent reality of child poverty and food insecurity in the UK. With nearly one in seven families struggling to afford food, the Foundation is drawing on the strength of the hospitality sector to drive real, measurable change.
Partnering with organisations such as The Felix Project and Home-Start, TCFF plans to deliver 500,000 meals across London in 2026 alone. Since 2020, the Foundation has already provided 3.5 million meals, including more than one million in the past year, cementing its status as a leading force in the fight against child hunger.
At Surrey Square, TCFF’s commitment extends far beyond the festive season. Funding supports weekly Youth Clubs, offering hot meals, mentorship, safeguarding support, and opportunities for children to build confidence. The Monthly Market, another cherished initiative, provides 350 local families with essential resources—food, community activities, and a sense of belonging.
A Growing Movement of Care
As TCFF continues its mission, the Foundation is expanding its impact to three additional schools in East London, ensuring that thousands more children will feel supported, nourished, and seen. Each programme is designed not only to meet immediate needs but also to foster dignity, connection, and long-term wellbeing.
Speaking on the importance of this work, Patricia Caring, Co-Founder of TCFF, shared:
“As we approach Christmas, a season meant for joy and togetherness, I am reminded that too many families in the UK face the harsh reality of food insecurity. At The Caring Family Foundation, we believe no child should go hungry at Christmas—or any time of year. With the support of our community, we can bring hope, warmth, and joy to those who need it most.”
For Matt Morden, Co-Head Teacher at Surrey Square Primary School, the partnership has become transformative:
“The support from The Caring Family Foundation ensures that every child at Surrey Square can experience moments of magic at what can be a challenging time. We are deeply grateful for the difference their continued commitment makes.”
An Evening of Festivity with Purpose
As part of the campaign launch, The Dorchester and TCFF joined forces once again on 30 November to host a spectacular Festive Wonderland event, with all proceeds directly supporting TCFF’s vital mission. Gifts donated during the celebration will be delivered to the children of Surrey Square Primary School—extending the joy and generosity long after the festivities conclude.
What began as a single school celebration has blossomed into a movement—a shining example of how collective compassion can transform lives. With every shared meal, every act of kindness, and every moment of festive joy, TCFF continues to illuminate the season with hope.
A reminder, perhaps, that the most luxurious gift of all is the gift of giving—one that enriches not only those who receive it, but all who choose to care.
