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Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow, a former farmer from Scotland, has dedicated his life to charity work since 1992. He founded Mary's Meals in 2002, an organization that now feeds over 2.4 million schoolchildren daily across 17 countries. His journey began with Scottish International Relief during the Balkan conflict when he and his brother delivered aid to Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Reflecting on the beginnings of his charity work, MacFarlane-Barrow shared, “This shed was full to the roof of food and clothing and people kept on giving.” Initially expecting his involvement to last a few months or a year, he found himself deeply committed as donations continued.
The pivotal moment for Mary's Meals came in Malawi in 2002 during a famine. MacFarlane-Barrow met Edward, a boy whose simple wish was "to have enough food to eat and to be able to go to school one day." This encounter highlighted how hunger prevented children from attending school and escaping poverty.
Mary's Meals started by feeding 200 children in Malawi and has expanded significantly since then. The charity is named after Mary, the mother of Jesus, reflecting its roots in faith and providence. It relies heavily on local volunteers like Rasody in Madagascar who help cook meals at schools.
MacFarlane-Barrow emphasized the role of prayer in sustaining Mary's Meals: “I would invite people to pray for this work.” Donations are also crucial; for instance, during GivingTuesday, contributions were tripled by matching donors.
The impact of feeding programs is significant. As MacFarlane-Barrow noted, “school enrollment goes up dramatically” when children receive meals at school. Success stories like Veronica from Malawi demonstrate the long-term benefits; she graduated with an education degree and now teaches college students.
Despite the achievements, MacFarlane-Barrow acknowledged ongoing challenges: “there’s so much more to do.” He expressed hope that all children could eventually receive daily meals at school.
Throughout his journey, MacFarlane-Barrow remains humble about his role: “I sleep very well at night because it doesn’t feel ever that this is mine.” Recognized globally for his efforts, including being named a CNN Hero in 2010 and receiving honors such as the Order of the British Empire, he attributes success to divine guidance: “He asked me to do one little thing... I said ‘yes.’”
Gerard Butler praised him at the CNN Hero Gala by saying their story diverged positively from typical narratives starting with "Two brothers walk into a bar."
MacFarlane-Barrow continues to be inspired by those he helps through Mary's Meals: "I very much feel like Our Lady’s my boss."
Paulina Guzik is international editor of OSV News. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) @Guzik_Paulina.
