Success Stories
The Wishes Under the Tree initiative was born out of a shared commitment to creating positive change for vulnerable children and young people. The Holly House Charitable Foundation, a trust dedicated to supporting local charities that enhance the lives of young people facing challenges, partnered with Bradford City Women to bring the project to life.
Through the initiative, children and young people in care were invited to submit their Christmas “wish lists,” which were fulfilled with the generous support of the Holly House Foundation. From headsets and scooters to football kits and Nike Jordans, the gifts reflected the diversity of dreams and wishes among the young participants.
The project culminated in a memorable event on Monday 23rd December at Carlton Bolling School, the home of Bradford City Women and Girls. The morning was filled with excitement as children and young people from various care homes and foster families gathered to celebrate.
First team players and staff from Bradford City Women and members of the Holly House Foundation team hosted a range of activities for the children, including football, cricket, basketball, and table tennis. The sports session was a lively affair, bringing smiles and building connections between the young participants and their hosts.
After the activities, everyone enjoyed festive refreshments, further adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The highlight of the event, however, was the moment the children received their personalised presents. The room was filled with joy and gratitude as young faces lit up with happiness, making the event unforgettable for everyone involved.
The Wishes Under the Tree project exemplifies the power of collaboration in creating meaningful change. By bringing together the resources and dedication of the Holly House Foundation and Bradford City Women, the initiative not only provided gifts but also created lasting memories and a sense of community for children and young people in care.
Voices from the day
Qasim Akhtar, Chairman of Bradford City AFC Women and Girls:
“The Wishes Under the Tree project was a fantastic partnership between Bradford City Women and the Holly House Foundation. Seeing our junior players wrapping presents was truly inspiring—it taught them valuable life lessons about kindness and giving back to the community. On the 23rd of December, we hosted a wonderful morning of games, sports, and gift-opening at our Training Ground (Carlton Bolling School), bringing smiles to children and young people in care. The moment the presents were opened was truly magical, a memory that will stay with all of us. We’re immensely grateful to Sophie and the Holly House Foundation team for their incredible support in bringing this project to life. It’s a privilege to be part of such meaningful work, and we’re looking forward to collaborating on our next initiative together.”
Monika Stube, First Team Captain, Bradford City AFC Women
“I think the young girl’s reaction when opening her football kit showed everything it means and the incredible impact it can have on young people in our city. I’m humbled and honoured to be part of a project that will stay with me forever.”
Patsy Burrows, Assistant Director for Corporate Parenting, Bradford Children and Families Trust:
“It’s so important that children and young people from all backgrounds in Bradford enjoy their childhood and have fun growing up, including celebrating the festive season. This is Corporate Parenting in action – organisations in Bradford coming together and working in partnership with the Trust to improve the lives of our children and young people in care. We’re looking forward to continuing to work together with Holly House Foundation and Bradford City AFC Women in the coming year and to build on this fantastic initiative.”
Sophie Wilkinson, Lead Trustee of the Holly House Charitable Foundation:
“It was a privilege for The Holly House Charitable Foundation to work with Qasim and Monika from BCAFC Women and Girls on the Wishes Under the Tree initiative. Distributing Christmas presents to children in care and care leavers across our city is something we’re extremely proud to have supported and been a part of. We’re looking forward to offering our continued support to all at BCFC Women’s and Girls and collaborating on upcoming projects.”
This video gives a glimpse behind the scenes, from the preparations to the set up, showing the teamwork and care that made it possible. 👇
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