KO Combat Academy has launched a community fundraising drive for Paul’s House in Central London, Young Lives vs Cancer’s Home from Home for families of children and young people facing cancer.
Throughout November, the Bethnal Green gym will open its doors every Monday to Friday from 7am to 9pm and Saturday & Sunday from 9am to 3pm to collect donations of everyday essentials – from toiletries and cleaning products to coffee and washing powder – for families staying at Paul’s House.
Young Lives vs Cancer is the leading UK charity for children and young people with cancer (0-25) and their families. The charity supports families through Specialist Social Workers and Homes from Home near hospitals.
Paul’s House provides free accommodation for families whose children and young people are receiving cancer treatment at hospitals in London, helping families avoid the extra financial burdens of travel, accommodation and food costs.
Young people and families face an extra £700 a month in costs during cancer treatment. Travel is the largest cost at £250 a month and can often be over an intense and lengthy period, taking a toll on families.
Without the vital support offered at Paul’s House in Central London, many families would face long daily commutes, or have to pay for accommodation in the city during treatment – something which can last for weeks or months at a time.
“Young Lives vs Cancer do incredible work in London,” said Jon Leonard, founder of Ultra White Collar Boxing, who initiated the drive. “When we heard Paul’s House needed more supplies, we knew KO Combat Academy- one of our key partner gyms – could help. Those within the boxing community have big hearts – and this is a small way we can make a big difference.”
Bill, coach at KO Combat Academy, added: “When Jon approached us, we didn’t hesitate. Boxing isn’t just about fitness – it’s about community. Paul’s House supports families through the toughest fights of their lives, and we’re proud to back them. Opening up our gym for donations was the least we could do”
In 2024/25, Paul’s House supported 319 families, giving them a home away from home while their children underwent treatment — particularly vital for those requiring daily hospital visits such as radiotherapy.
Eric Coates from Paul’s House said: “As we approach winter and Christmas, cancer treatment means many children and young people, and their families are facing weeks spent many miles from home. Our Home from Home means we can help keep those families together. We want to thank everyone involved for this community fundraising drive and everyone who donates. It means we’ll be able to supply families with the simple essentials. They may seem small, but they make a huge difference to families going through cancer.”
Donation details:
Monday – Friday, 7:00am – 9:00pm & Saturday & Sunday, 9:00am – 3:00pm
KO Gym, 186 Bethnal Green, Bethnal Green, London, E1 4ET
Requested items
Supermarket gift vouchers
Deliveroo and Just Eat vouchers
Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Shower gel
Deodorant (male and female)
Lip balm
Hand cream
Baby wipes
Sanitary Products
Cleaning supplies
Dishwasher tablets
Long-life semi skimmed milk
Instant coffee
Laundry washing powder
Laundry fabric conditioner
Pocket tissues
