Pupils at a Birmingham secondary school have demonstrated remarkable compassion this winter, actively renewing their commitment to three core charitable pledges. Students from Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy have united under the banners of Food for All, Warmth for All, and Gifts for All, transforming their ethos of kindness into direct action for the local community.
Providing Essential Support to the Vulnerable
The school's winter campaign began with a concerted effort to tackle food poverty. As part of their Eden Girls’ Food Drive, pupils and staff assembled and delivered thoughtfully prepared food packs to residents of several local shelters and hostels. These included St Anne’s Hostel, Heartlands Hostel, St Basils Youth Centre, and Haadi Housing. Each delivery aimed to provide more than just supplies, offering vital moments of human connection and comfort during the challenging winter months.
This hands-on support extended to collaboration with Birmingham’s Homeless One charity. Volunteers from the school spent two evenings serving hot meals to those in need, with the project funded entirely by donations from the school community. This initiative ensured individuals facing hardship on the city's coldest nights felt seen and supported.
Offering Warmth and Raising Awareness
Addressing the acute need for shelter and warmth, the academy collected donations of essential bedding items such as pillows, duvets, and blankets. All donations were passed on to the St Basils charity, which supports young people experiencing homelessness.
In a powerful act of solidarity and education, pupils also participated in the St Basils Big Sleep Out 2025. By seeking sponsorships and spending a night outdoors, they not only raised crucial funds but also gained a profound, firsthand understanding of the realities faced by those without a safe home.
Spreading Festive Cheer Across Generations
The spirit of giving reached diverse groups across Birmingham. Working with Migrant Help UK, the school community contributed to a Shoe Box Appeal, filling boxes with essentials like toiletries and socks, accompanied by handmade cards with messages of encouragement.
Pupils also focused on bringing joy to local children and the elderly. They prepared special festive hampers for residents of Fountains Care Home. These included 'Pamper Hampers' with self-care items and 'Treat Hampers' containing snacks and gifts, which were presented during the residents' festive lunch alongside personalised cards.
To further strengthen intergenerational bonds, the school invited the care home residents for a festive afternoon tea. The event featured performances by the school’s Nasheed Choir, creating a joyful and memorable occasion for all.
Saleh Islam, Principal at Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham, expressed his pride: "I am so proud of our pupils for the thoughtfulness, energy, and compassion they have shown this winter. From supporting local shelters and hostels to brightening the days of children and older people alike, they have truly put our ethos of kindness into action."
He added that the Winter Gift Programme allows students to learn empathy through doing, highlighting how their generosity and teamwork are making a tangible difference. This annual campaign is part of a wider effort across all Star Academies schools, uniting pupils and staff in charitable acts to ensure no one faces winter's challenges alone.
