About

Who we are

Basket Brigade UK is a loving, charitable organisation who deliver baskets of food, love and hope on December 23rd every year to those who could really do with a helping hand at Christmas.

Karl Pearsall, founder of the YES Group, and Liane Pedro created the UK version of Basket Brigade after attending a Tony Robbins event 30 years ago.

In 2023, it became a registered charity.

Our charitable objects are “to relieve the need of individuals and families in the UK, who are experiencing poverty or financial hardship at Christmas time, by the provision of food parcels, via a distribution network, to enable those in need access to a nutritious and substantial meal that they could not otherwise afford”.

Charity No 1200548

How it started

Tony Robbins, coach, author, speaker and entrepreneur started Basket Brigade over
40 years ago.

At the age of 12, Tony’s family were struggling financially and one day he opened the door to a stranger holding a basket of food.

Tony’s family receiving a basket of food when his parents were in difficulty, led to the belief that ‘strangers care’.

This experience never left him and a few years later when he was old enough to do the same to others in need, Basket Brigade was born.

To receive a basket of food, love and hope,
at a time when life isn’t your best friend,
from complete strangers, is something that is life-changing.

Who we help

One small act of generosity on the part of one caring person can transform the lives of hundreds.

Basket Brigade has helped thousands and thousands of people in need over the last 25 years. Here’s what some of them had to say about the impact that basket of food had on them.

Our community like everybody else are really experiencing both food poverty and financial hardship. Having a hamper enabled them to put a Christmas meal on the table and feel they could provide for their family. So many families experience the fact they cannot provide for their children leading to depression and mental health. The impact had a far more reaching effect on people than just the food, it enabled them to celebrate Christmas Day without worrying, even if it just was just for that day.

Christina – representing 70 families

A few years ago, I faced financial difficulties and felt embarrassed to ask for help, even though I had support around me. One Christmas, while feeling stressed, someone anonymously delivered a Christmas hamper to my door. Overwhelmed with gratitude, I was able to feed my family and even share with a neighbour. Wanting to learn more, I discovered Basket Brigade and vowed to volunteer ever since. Helping others in the same way has allowed me to make a meaningful difference in their lives.

Genny – Recipient

Our Vision

In the spirit of giving, bringing communities together to deliver hearty Christmas meals to more people in need.

Our Mission

We deliver baskets of food, love and hope on December 23rd every year to those who could really do with a helping hand at Christmas.

Our Values

Integrity– We demonstrate honesty, transparency and ethical behaviour in all actions and decisions.

Non-judgement – We treat everyone with respect, love and honesty, regardless of their situation.

Compassion – We show empathy and kindness towards those we serve, recognising that anybody can find themselves in a situation of need at Christmas time.

Collaboration – We partner with other organisations, businesses and charities to maximise our reach to those in the community who are in need of help at Christmas.

Contribution – Volunteering and giving up your time to help others will lead to a more thoughtful, caring and compassionate you.

Fun – The day of Dec 23 is not just about making baskets of food, love and hope, it’s about having fun while you do it.

Charity Trustees

Giles Button

Chair & Trustee

Responsible for liaising with the event team to ensure the events are held in line with the charities objectives.

Geeta Taylor

Secretary & Trustee

Responsible for ensuring the charity complies with its legal obligations.

Tony Snow

Trustee

Responsible for the branding and marketing.

Rachel Gregory

Treasurer & Trustee

Responsible for the overall financial position of the charity and ensuring accounting deadlines are met.