Stronger Together: University Food Group, My Room & The Children’s Cancer Foundation

Under the leadership of Maurizio Marcocci, Director of University Food Group and Chair of My Room Children’s Cancer Charity, our family business is proud to be part of initiatives that go well beyond the food industry. For us, it’s about contributing to the wider community and helping children and their families when they need it most.

A Clear Message of Commitment

In April 2025, Maurizio joined the Hon. Jaala Pulford, Chair of the Children’s Cancer Foundation, to issue a joint statement addressing public concern about funding changes at the Royal Children’s Hospital’s Children’s Cancer Centre.

The message was clear:

“We have not withdrawn support. Our commitment remains firm… as recently as 5 March of this year, we reaffirmed our commitment and expressed a strong desire to fund further positions.”

Through rapid collaboration, My Room and the Foundation secured additional funding to ensure that critical roles remain in place. This outcome protected essential services, staff morale, and most importantly, uninterrupted care for children and their families. It was a decisive moment that demonstrated Maurizio’s steadfast leadership and the power of partnership.

Leadership Grounded in Lived Experience

Maurizio’s drive stems from personal experience. Having overcome Hodgkin’s disease as a child, he brings a deep understanding of the challenges faced by young patients and their families. Today, as both the head of University Food Group and the Chair of My Room, he channels that resilience into tangible progress.

A recent highlight came in partnership with the Children’s Cancer Foundation and the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute. Together, My Room helped establish the appointment of Professor David Eisenstat as the inaugural Chair in Childhood Cancer at the University of Melbourne. Beginning in late 2025, this position will formalise a groundbreaking research and clinical leadership role, ensuring that Victoria continues to lead the way in advancing childhood cancer treatment.

These achievements are not just milestones; they represent hope. They mean better-equipped hospitals, more support for families, and the acceleration of research into gentler, more effective treatments for children.

Upcoming Events in 2025

Community support is the backbone of My Room’s success. This year offers several opportunities for individuals and businesses to get involved:

  • Gala Ball - A night of celebration and generosity where the food industry and community come together. Tickets and sponsorship details are available on the My Room website.

  • My Room Telethon - Broadcast live on Channel 9 this Grand Final Eve, giving Australians the chance to tune in, donate, and show that collective generosity creates real change.

  • Home for a Cure - Since 2018, Satterley has donated a block of land each year for this initiative. In 2025, a beautiful Henley home in Botanical estate, Mickleham, will go under the hammer to raise vital funds.

  • Nike Melbourne Marathon Festival - Run, jog, walk, or wheel through Melbourne’s iconic streets, finishing with a lap of honour around the MCG. Every stride supports the fight against childhood cancer.

  • Afternoon Tea at The Langham - A refined fundraising event in the heart of Melbourne. Guests can enjoy the signature Langham Afternoon Tea in the Ballroom while raising money for children battling cancer.

Stronger Together

At University Food Group, we believe that business has a responsibility to support the community it serves. Under Maurizio’s leadership, our partnership with My Room and the Children’s Cancer Foundation continues to make a lasting impact. Together, we are not only funding positions and research but also fuelling hope for families across Victoria.

Because when it comes to childhood cancer, the message is simple: we are stronger together.

How You Can Get Involved

Supporting My Room is about more than a single donation, it’s about standing alongside children and families when they need it most. Here are some ways you can help:

  • Donate directly via the My Room website to ensure vital research, services, and family support can continue.

  • Attend an event such as the Gala Ball, Afternoon Tea, or the Telethon, your presence and generosity make a real difference.

  • Fundraise your way by organising a workplace or community fundraiser, from morning teas to fun runs.

  • Volunteer your time or expertise to support events and campaigns.

  • Spread the word - share My Room’s mission with your networks, encouraging others to get involved.

Every contribution, big or small, helps bring us closer to a future where no child has to face cancer alone.