In a moment that has captured hearts worldwide, 12-year-old Prince George joined his father, Prince William, for a heartfelt volunteering session at The Passage, a London-based homelessness charity, on December 16, 2025. The father-son duo rolled up their sleeves to help prepare a festive Christmas lunch for 150 vulnerable guests, a gesture that not only spread holiday cheer but also evoked powerful memories of Princess Diana. Royal fans were left speechless by one particularly tender reaction from George, a poignant reminder of the late princess’s enduring influence on her family and her compassionate legacy.
The visit marked George’s first time at The Passage, the same organization where William, at age 11, accompanied his mother Diana in 1993. Princess Diana, renowned for her hands-on humanitarian work, often brought her young sons to shelters and hospitals to teach them empathy and the realities of life beyond palace walls. William has frequently credited those experiences with shaping his lifelong commitment to tackling homelessness, including launching his ambitious Homewards initiative in 2023 aimed at ending the crisis in the UK. Bringing George along at a similar age felt like a full-circle moment, passing the torch of compassion to the next generation.
During the visit, William and George donned aprons and dove into kitchen duties with enthusiasm. William handled Brussels sprouts, pouring them onto trays for roasting, while George assisted with Yorkshire puddings and table setting. They also packed care packages, baked cupcakes, and decorated a Christmas tree—one repurposed from the Princess of Wales’s recent carol concert at Westminster Abbey. The tables were festively laid with Aston Villa crackers, a nod to the father and son’s shared love for the football club.
But the most emotional highlight came when George signed the charity’s visitors’ book—on the very same page bearing the signatures of his grandmother Diana and father from 32 years earlier. As William pointed out Diana’s handwriting to his son, explaining, “This is my mum’s signature—this was the first time she brought me here,” George’s reaction was described as deeply touching. Observers noted a quiet reverence in the young prince’s expression, a mix of curiosity and emotion that left staff and onlookers moved. Mick Clarke, chief executive of The Passage, called it a “lovely, beautiful moment,” emphasizing the sense of continuity from 1993 to 2025.
Royal enthusiasts flooded social media with reactions, many echoing the sentiment: “She would be so proud.” Fans praised William for continuing Diana’s tradition of grounding his children in service and awareness. “Seeing George there, at the same age William was, and that sweet reaction to Diana’s signature—it’s heartbreaking and beautiful,” one wrote. Others highlighted how the visit humanizes the young heir, showing him as a thoughtful boy eager to help. The shared video and photos from Kensington Palace amassed millions of views, with comments filled with tears and admiration for the family’s quiet dedication.
The Passage, a vital resource providing shelter, support, and meals to those experiencing homelessness, holds special significance for William. As its royal patron, he has visited annually in recent years, often around Christmas. This time, introducing George aligned with his desire to educate his children about societal issues early on. A palace spokesperson noted that the pair “greatly enjoyed meeting staff, volunteers, and service users,” while underscoring the invaluable work of homelessness organizations year-round.
The outing occurred on the same day as the royal family’s private Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace, contrasting opulent traditions with humble service—a balance Diana herself championed. William has spoken openly about his initial anxiety during that 1993 visit, only to discover warmth and gratitude among the guests. Now, guiding George through similar experiences, he ensures her values endure.
Princess Diana’s legacy of compassion remains a guiding light for the Wales family. Known as the “People’s Princess,” she broke protocol to hug AIDS patients, walk through minefields, and spotlight the plight of the homeless. Her influence is evident in William’s Homewards project and Catherine’s focus on early childhood and mental health. George’s involvement signals this spirit extending to the future king.
As 2025 holidays unfolded—with the Wales family later attending Sandringham services—this pre-Christmas act of kindness resonated deeply. In a world often divided, the sight of a future monarch learning humility through service inspires hope. “She would be so proud,” fans repeated, capturing the emotion of a legacy alive and thriving. Prince George’s tender moment reminds us that Diana’s heart continues to beat in her grandsons, ensuring her light shines on.
