Global cheer: 100 Wolverhampton children celebrated international festive joy
Wolverhampton Councillors Asha Mattu (Lab, Graiseley) and Sally Green (Lab, Blakenhall) joined forces with the Elias Mattu Foundation and international NGO We Care for Humanity (WCH) to host the Global Santa Wolverhampton Christmas celebration — a heart-warming community event that brought festive cheer to over 100 children from across the city.
Held at the Graiseley Hub, the event formed part of the long-established Global Santa Programme, an international humanitarian initiative founded by WCH more than a decade ago. The programme, active in countries worldwide, works with local businesses and communities to ensure that children from all walks of life experience the joy, magic and warmth of Christmas.
The Wolverhampton edition of Global Santa delivered a vibrant and inclusive celebration featuring a lively children’s disco, face painting, festive games and, to the excitement of all present, a special visit from Santa Claus himself — who travelled all the way from the North Pole to meet the young attendees.
Generous support from local businesses helped transform the day into a memorable seasonal experience. The Eggless Cake Shop, McDonald’s Penn Road, Greggs (Mander Centre) and Green Lanes Tasty Bites donated food and refreshments, enabling every child to enjoy a full Christmas party meal.
Mr Bill Aulak, Owner, The Eggless Cake Shop said “No child should go without joy at Christmas. Being part of Global Santa and sharing food with families was a reminder of what the season is really about. Global Santa represents unity, compassion and care for families from all backgrounds, and we were proud to play a small part in such a meaningful event. Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces made it truly special.”
Each child received a gift donated by local businesses including an array of toys from local businessman Mr Charlie Gul, while families were provided with a Christmas food hamper courtesy of We Care for Humanity and the Elias Mattu Foundation Food Bank, ensuring additional support during the festive season.
Local businesses DJ Steve, Fairytale Face Paint and UK Garrison a renowned not-for-profit costuming organisation also provided an additional element of fun and cheer for the attendees.
Several local organisations participated to offer parents practical guidance and essential support. These included:
Vaccination UK
University of Wolverhampton Law Advice Centre
Wolverhampton Homes
Wolverhampton Wonderer's FC Foundation
Global Diabetes Initiatives
Their presence ensured that while children enjoyed the festivities, families could access help, advice and community resources in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Sangeet Wyllie, Registered Nurse, Vaccination UK said “When families feel comfortable and supported, conversations about health become easier. Being part of Global Santa meant we could provide trusted advice while children simply enjoyed being children. Many families have questions about healthcare and vaccinations. Events like this help build trust through openness, kindness and community connection.”
The event was formally opened by Her Royal Highness Maha Putri Maria Amor Leonora Torres Mastura, of the Sultanate of Maguindanao and Founder of We Care for Humanity, who was visiting Wolverhampton as part of her international Humanitarian Tour. Maha Putri was accompanied by Datu Jordan Nirankari-Bowen, Royal Envoy for Communications and Royal Legal Counsel, and welcomed dignitaries including Warinder Juss MP, local councillors, community leaders and WCH delegates from the UK and overseas.
Maha Putri expressed her admiration for the city’s commitment to compassion and unity, remarking that Global Santa “brings the world together through acts of love and kindness, ensuring that every child feels seen, valued and celebrated.”
Mrs Balbir Seimar BEM, Interim Regional Director of We Care for Humanity (UK), praised the collaboration behind the event, stating: “Global Santa Wolverhampton is a beautiful example of what can be achieved when charities, local leaders, businesses and volunteers come together with a shared purpose. Thanks to this partnership, more than one hundred children experienced a joyful Christmas celebration — and that is something our whole city can be proud of.”
The success of Global Santa Wolverhampton 2025 reflects the city’s enduring commitment to community care, inclusion and festive generosity — ensuring that the spirit of Christmas reaches every corner of Wolverhampton.
