Let me begin this article with a line: "the best things in life are free". We often hear or read about it, but rarely give it a second thought.

The Kindness Offensive (TKO) are a group of like-minded and inspiring people who live by this mantra. They are like Santas in their own unique outfit, and they are definitely for real. David Goodfellow, Benny Crane and James Hunter stepped out of their house one day greeting strangers and asking them about that one random act of kindness that would make them happy.

This was almost 4 years ago, and today they hold a World Record for the largest random act of kindness ever. They gave-away 39 tonnes of goods that included food, sleeping bags for the homeless and a toy for every child who was unfortunately confined in the hospital on Christmas.

It's not only about the free stuff, but it's the warmth, excitement and pure kindness that restores our faith in pure good, and belief that this world may not be as bad as we assume it to be.

"We've found that, when stripped down to its basic components, kindness (and TKO) is something that everyone can enjoy and be happy about! Kindness is infectious and, having caught the bug, we’re actively spreading it as far as we can! " shares their website.





































TKO functions on a system that they like to call 'Phone Whispering'. They are a team of thousands of volunteers who conduct random acts of kindness, backed by corporate sponsors. Dressed in bright jackets and yellow helmets with smilies, TKO members hit the streets of London with balloons, confetti and loads of goodies. They go from stranger to stranger, from house to house to spread the kindness and brighten somebody's day. Over the past few years they have received well deserved media coverage from TV shows like BBC news, radio stations and newspapers. Check out these videos see some of their random acts of kindness:





What's most interesting is the kinds of goods they give-away. Not only are they hugely contributing to several charities and community groups, they've also been involved in providing medical supplies and housing support to individuals and families. They hold tea-parties for old-pensioners, provide food for soup kitchens, surprise festival goers with random gifts like gadgets or hampers, they reach out to individuals and make their day by either giving simple flowers, or perhaps a bottle of champagne; some people have even won gold medals for being caught unaware while conducting a random act of kindness.






















They have something known as "The Everyday Kindness Awards" where they encourage individuals to be kind enough to help a stranger with his/her groceries, or perhaps help a tourist with directions. Simple but heart felt acts of kindness is what keeps this world afloat, in spite of all the negativity around us, it is these basic things that make this world a better place and us a better person.

James Hunter, David Goodfellow and Bennie Crane of the Kindness Offensive, pictured at their house in West Hampstead

Boris Johnson Mayor of London with James Hunter and Benny Crane

The Mayor of Camden with David Goodfellow, James Hunter and Benny Crane

BBC news have quoted them as 'modern day Robin Hoods' while Boris Johnson, Mayor of London says, "The Kindness Offensive project has brought immeasurable joy to many thousands of Londoners." David Goodfellow, one of the founding members of TKO has been recognized as one of the 100 people who are responsible for making Britain a happier place to live.

Check out this video where all kinds of media channels are talking about TKO's contagious kindness with people all over the world:



You too can join The Kindness Offensive, click here for more information.