The Fund for Human Need (FHN) was founded in 1960 by a small group of Christians who believed they had a responsibility “to relieve and remove poverty in all parts of the world without regard for politics, race, colour or creed.” Originally, grants were made mainly to churches and charities overseas, but in the 1990s the focus of FHN’s work changed to addressing need in the UK.
Payments are made irrespective of faith, ethnic origin or social group to those in all parts of the United Kingdom who are homeless or hungry, who are waiting for benefits, refugees or asylum seekers, ex-prisoners trying to rebuild their lives, people with mental health issues or those whose relationships have broken down.
Grants (currently of between £100 and £130) are made to individuals and families on a once-only basis to tide them over when they are destitute. Churches of different denominations, local and national charities, Citizens Advice, NHS trusts and local authority bodies are among those who submit 85% of the applications received by FHN, 15% of requests come directly from desperate individuals.
Historically, most support for the Fund has come from Methodist churches and members but, with growing demand and a desire to increase the level of our emergency payments, the trustees are seeking to broaden the sourcing of funds.
In 2025 FHN has secured the very generous support of another charity to cover the costs of administration, governance and fundraising, including the employment of a part-time administrator. This means one hundred per cent of all donations is now going directly to those in need.
Learn more about the Fund for Human Need.
Fund for Human Need is a Charity and Network in Association with Churches Together in England.