Thomas John Barnardo was an Irish philanthropist and social reformer who founded the charity Barnardo's. Moved by the plight of destitute children in London's East End, he established his first home for boys in 1870. Over the course of his life, he opened nearly 100 homes and provided care and education for over 60,000 children. His pioneering work laid the foundation for modern child welfare and his organization continues to support vulnerable children to this day.