Welcome to the inspiring journey of Mary’s Meals, a charity dedicated to feeding hungry children in the world’s poorest communities. Founded by Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, this organization started as a small initiative in Scotland during the Bosnian war and has now grown into a global movement serving nearly 2.5 million children every day.
Reflecting on the mission of Mary’s Meals, MacFarlane-Barrow emphasizes the importance of providing one meal a day to children in places of education. The charity empowers local communities by relying on volunteers who cook and serve meals for children, ensuring that the ingredients are locally sourced to support farmers and economies.
While Mary’s Meals is not a Catholic agency, its work is deeply influenced by Catholic social teaching, focusing on human dignity and the common good. This aligns with Pope Francis’ call to care for marginalized communities and promote a culture of encounter.
Despite working in challenging environments affected by conflict and poverty, Mary’s Meals remains committed to its mission. MacFarlane-Barrow envisions a future where countries like Malawi are free from poverty and can sustain their own school feeding programs.
The impact of Mary’s Meals is profound, as it costs just £19.15 to feed a child for a whole school year. MacFarlane-Barrow emphasizes the importance of shared humanity and the transformative power of giving, stating that everyone can make a difference, no matter how small.
As Mary’s Meals continues to feed children in war-torn regions like Ethiopia, Haiti, and South Sudan, MacFarlane-Barrow remains hopeful and dedicated to the cause. Through the infinite belief in the innate goodness of people and the support of global advocates, Mary’s Meals strives to ensure that no child goes hungry.
Join Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow and Mary’s Meals at the upcoming World Meeting on Children’s Rights at the Vatican on February 3rd. Together, let’s make a difference and bring hope to children suffering around the world.
