Bukayo Saka, the Arsenal and England star who grew up in Ealing, recently gave back to his community in a deeply moving way. He surprised pupils, parents and teachers at four local schools, including Edward Betham Primary and Greenford High where he once studied, by personally distributing over 1,000 school uniforms. His presence, complete with autographs and photos, lifted spirits and eased financial pressures for families struggling with the cost of living crisis.

Arriving at four local schools, including Edward Betham Primary and Greenford High, he walked through corridors filled with excited pupils and greeted families gathered in playgrounds. At Edward Betham, he paused to ask a pupil whether they were enjoying school and made sure to sign the sleeve of one uniform, saying “Hope this year is your best yet!” Over at Greenford High, Saka was spotted chatting with a group of Year 7 students about how he managed school life and ambitions, letting them know that challenges could be overcome with effort and hope. Teachers remarked on his attentiveness, saying “He didn’t just drop off the clothes, he stayed, he listened, he made it personal.”

This initiative did more than provide clothing, it fostered goodwill and reassurance. Families expressed how much it meant to feel seen and supported, especially given rising living costs. A parent shared,

“It wasn’t about jerseys or fame, it was about humanity, and that’s what makes the difference.”

Saka’s roots in Ealing go beyond occasional visits. Three years ago, he became the youngest recipient of the Freedom of the Borough, celebrated for his journey from local schools and junior pitches to representing club and country.

His generosity stretches further afield too. Since 2022, he has backed BigShoe, funding operations for children in Kano, Nigeria. He has also supported the construction of a container village in Morocco to shelter families displaced by earthquakes.

For the youngsters in Ealing who shook his hand or wore their new uniforms home, it was a day they are unlikely to forget.