Mission Focus for September 2026
There’s no doubt that we live in a society that has fallen a long way short of the perfection of that 6th day – the world pristine in all its created splendour, God’s handiwork displayed in his ultimate creation, man, the universe in perfect balance …… then the fall.
500 years ago in Sawston, Cambridgeshire, a couple named Joyce and John Huntingdon saw the mess and decided to do something about it. They owned 3 parcels of land, and when they died, they left these in their wills “to benefit directly the people of Sawston.” They also wrote that a field of a special variety of peas – then a valuable staple food- should be grown every year for people in Sawston and round-about to harvest, free! A 16th century Food Bank?
But very much has changed, and JHC, The John Huntingdon Charity has marched along in step with the changing times. A great deal of the work nowadays involves supporting and giving advice and help to people in difficulties. Three highly qualified members of the support team work with over 400 people a year, often over several months. “Advice is available about benefits, housing, homelessness and small debts. Every year this unique blend of consistent care and individual understanding makes a huge difference to many people’s wellbeing.”
For people resident in or having close connections to Sawston there is help with housing. JHC own 34 almshouses and residential properties in the village. What a relief to move into secure, appropriate housing! I think that Jesus must have slept rough on many an occasion and it must have been such a pleasure to stay at Lazarus’ house when he was in the area. I feel his wistfulness when he says, “foxes have dens and birds of heaven have roosts but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay down his head.” How it must please Him now when he sees a needy family decently housed.
For residents of Sawston, JHC can make small grants for “essential, practical items that improve wellbeing, such as cookers, washing machines, beds, school uniforms and school; trips.”
So, JHC is not just about food. It helps to provide shelter, clothing, hygiene, comfort and peace of mind. Let us pray for all their work, and that both employees, volunteers and clients should come to know and trust the One in whose name and love much of the work is done and the donations given.
For more information about the charity and how to help, click here