Mercy In Action

Mercy In Action is a UK-based nonprofit organisation and registered charity (Charity number 1096068) dedicated to combating poverty, injustice, and homelessness primarily through providing housing, food, education, and care for children and families. The organisation operates both in the United Kingdom and the Philippines, with a mission to support some of the most vulnerable populations by delivering practical aid and long-term development opportunities.

Objectives and Activities

Mercy In Action focuses on initiatives that address immediate needs while also equipping individuals and communities for sustainable futures. Key activities include:

• Providing housing and shelter for destitute families.
• Supplying food through feeding programmes aimed at hunger alleviation.
• Running educational programmes supporting approximately 400 children attending school and college.
• Operating three children’s homes.
• Managing a drop-in centre for street children.
• Offering grants for small businesses to foster economic independence.

The charity's approach is summarized by its motto: "Feeding the hungry today; equipping them for tomorrow," which reflects its balance between meeting urgent needs and empowering beneficiaries for long-term change[1][3][5].

Geographic Reach

In the United Kingdom, Mercy In Action implements community-based projects that aim to tackle homelessness and food poverty. In the Philippines, particularly in the regions of Cebu and Mindanao, the charity works among some of the poorest communities, providing comprehensive support including education, housing, and health-related services. Their work includes outreach to street children and enabling access to schooling and care[1][3].

Organisation and Resources

Mercy In Action operates as a charitable company limited by guarantee, registered in England (Company No. 4627969), with Charity Commission registration number 1096068. The organisation employs around 168 staff members and is supported by approximately 350 volunteers alongside a board of six trustees[2][3].

Funding and Financial Overview

The charity's financial model balances raising funds and delivering charitable activities. For the financial year ending 31 December 2023, Mercy In Action reported total income of approximately £5.2 million, primarily generated from donations, legacies, charitable activities, and trading activities including charity shops. Expenditure totaled around £5.6 million, with £1.11 million directly allocated to charitable activities, including programmes in education, housing, and feeding. The bulk of expenditure is related to raising funds to sustain operations and expand impact[3][5].

Impact and Recognition

Mercy In Action’s model has gained recognition in global health and social care sectors, particularly for its innovative approaches to maternal and child health in resource-poor settings. The organisation's work in disaster response and community health has been featured in publications edited by noted medical anthropologists and midwifery experts, highlighting its significant role in improving health outcomes for disadvantaged populations[4].

Mercy In Action exemplifies a charity that integrates immediate relief with developmental aid, striving to uplift communities in crisis within the UK and internationally through education, health, and housing initiatives.

[1] https://www.mercyinaction.org.uk [2] https://www.mercyinaction.org.uk/united-kingdom [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1096068&subid=0 [4] https://www.mercyinaction.com [5] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3997767/full-print