Formerly the Methodist Relief Fund, it originated in 1945 under the aegis of the Christian Citizenship Department and its Secretary Henry Carter in response to the desperate needs of World War II refugees. It became a registered charity in 1985. By the time of its first detailed report to Conference in 1955 its annual income had passed £4,000. By 2012-3 the annual income reached £2,722k.

Working through local Methodist Churches and in conjunction with other agencies, its purpose is to bring about significant and long term change in some of the world's most marginalised communities, and to empower people to change structures that are oppressive and unjust and it has currently three core priorities:

• to contribute to the eradication of poverty, through transformative long-term development, and disaster relief • to increase the effectiveness of overseas partner organisations to contribute to the eradication of poverty • to challenge the causes of poverty and injustice through education and advocacy, both in the UK and overseas.

Since 2008, MRDF has been governed by a Board of Trustees who are appointed for a period of six years and approved by the Methodist Council. In April 2013 it adopted a new name, 'All We Can', to reflect its vision for the future, while retaining its Methodist identity. But the series of clauses ascribed to Wesley and beginning 'Do all the good you can…' cannot be found anywhere in his published writings and remains of doubtful origin.

Entry written by: DRF
Category: Organisation
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