| Irish and British philanthropist, founder and director of a home for disadvantaged children. Date of Birth: 04.07.1845 Country: Ireland |
Thomas John Barnardo was an Irish and British philanthropist, best known as the founder and director of homes for destitute children. Born on July 4, 1845, in Dublin, Barnardo came from a Christian family with a Jewish father and an English mother.
In 1866, Barnardo left Dublin to work as a missionary in China. Afterward, he studied medicine at a London hospital. It was during this time that he began pondering the fate of unfortunate and abandoned children, and how he could help them.
The year 1866 was marked by a devastating cholera epidemic that particularly affected children. At the same time, the number of young orphans whose parents had died from the disease was increasing. In response to this crisis, Barnardo opened his first home in London in 1870 and continued his charitable work until his death in 1905.
Barnardo established over a hundred similar institutions and numerous branches throughout the United Kingdom. He carefully developed a methodology for working with these vulnerable children, which included finding them, providing them with food and clothing, and educating them. Once they reached a certain age, both boys and girls were trained in various trades and professions. Sick and weak children were treated in specialized health facilities, hospitals, and sanatoriums.
In 1899, Barnardo's establishments were officially registered and named "The National Association for the Reclamation of Destitute Waif Children." In the early 20th century, Barnardo expanded his work by opening a special naval institution where boys from his homes could learn naval skills and prepare for a career in the merchant navy.
Thomas John Barnardo passed away on September 19, 1905, in London. He died from a heart condition (angina pectoris) that he had developed due to his lifelong dedication to helping those in need. His philanthropic legacy continues to be cherished and remembered, with his work being carried on primarily by the well-known British charitable organization named after the great benefactor.