About us

Yanabhi and his repaired boat in the aftermath of the Tsunami Photo Credit: Isabelle Carbone/MRDF

The World Development and Relief Committee is responsible to the Methodist Church in Ireland. It overseas the allocation of funds received largely from Methodist members within Ireland. Grants are made to a diverse range of organisations and churches that are able to bring about long-term change through development projects and programmes. On occasions WDRC may also make allocations to relief work. WDRC is committed to advocacy (campaigning and lobbying political institutions on behalf of the poor and marginalised) and education of the Methodist people in Ireland so that they understand the relevant issues and can respond in the most appropriate way.

The WDRC (the committee) works in partnership with Overseas Methodist Conferences, Church Authorities, local groups and Aid Agencies. To read more about our partnerships click here.

Relief

WDRC primarily funds development programmes. However, there are emergency situations of extreme need which may arise. On such occasions WDRF will allocate an amount immediately and may follow that up with guidance to all Irish Methodist churches, acting as a channel for funds. Relief funds are generally channeled through overseas partner churches, Christian Aid Ireland or the Methodist Relief and Development Fund of the Methodist Church in Britain, all of whom may have staff and partners active on the ground, thus bringing immediate relief to those who most need it.

Development

Asia: Nepal, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh

Americas/Caribbean: Colombia, Bolivia, Honduras

Africa: Kenya, Cameroon, The Gambia, Uganda, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Mali, Tanzania, Ghana

Middle East: Lebanon

To read more about some of our supported projects, click here.

Campaigning

For there to be real long term change for the world's 3 billion people living in poverty, then political action is required. Campaigning and lobbying of our politicians and those in power brings issues to the fore and through public pressure can bring changes in policies which affect the poor. WDRC is committed to such action. To learn more or get involved click here.

Education

Understanding the causes of and possible remedies for poverty and injustice are vital. WDRC has a World Development Officer who can advise, resource and visit your church or group. WDRC also encourages people to contact and engage with other relief and development agencies. See our partnerships page.