International school food charity invites people to Pray in May and give hope to hungry children

Mary’s Meals is calling on people of faith to unite in prayer and lift up the mission of providing life-changing school meals to children in some of the world’s poorest communities by taking part in its annual Pray in May initiative.
Since its humble beginnings in 2002, Mary’s Meals – named after Mary, Mother of God – has provided vital daily meals to children in their place of education. Today, more than 2.6m children across 16 countries benefit from these meals, which offer hope and a pathway out of poverty for them and their communities.
During May, Mary’s Meals is asking people to pray for those in Southern Africa who are experiencing the devastating impacts of drought and extreme weather, leaving families with little to no food to put on the table. With six countries declaring a state of emergency and the UN warning of a potential humanitarian disaster, the need for prayer and action has never been greater.
Mary’s Meals is a lifeline for families in Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe – four of the worst-affected countries. For these communities, a simple school meal means parents can send their children to class knowing they will eat, while the little food at home stretches further.
Sixteen-year-old Fatra from Malawi knows this reality all too well. Before Mary’s Meals, hunger left her too weak to concentrate in school.
She says: “The challenges around hunger and having enough food are really bad – I had nothing to eat last night. Most days are the same. Before feeding started I would be sleeping in class because hunger makes you tired.” With the promise of a daily school meal, Fatra can focus on her education and take confident steps towards a brighter future.
Fran Lawson, supporter engagement officer for the north of England at Mary’s Meals, says: “Prayers offered for the work of Mary’s Meals around the world make our mission possible. This May, we invite you to join us in prayer, especially for those in Southern Africa, where the need is urgent. Your prayers can bring hope and healing to those who need it most.”
A range of Pray in May resources for churches, schools and individuals, including suggested prayers, prayer calendars, bulletin notices and much more are available to download on Mary’s Meals’ website.
Those looking to deepen their prayer journey can sign up for three special prayer emails this May. These emails will include updates on Mary’s Meals’ work, reflections from team members and suggested prayer points to guide you throughout the month. To sign up and be part of something powerful, visit marysmeals.org.uk/get-involved/churches-and-prayers/pray-in-may.
Fran adds: “Every prayer, no matter how small, has the power to bring comfort and strength to those in need. By coming together in faith this May, we can create a ripple effect of love and compassion that reaches across the world.”
For people celebrating First Holy Communions or other special occasions this year, Mary’s Meals offers a range of meaningful digital gifts through their online shop – including First Holy Communion cards and A Gift of Hope digital gifts. Celebrate with purpose by giving a gift that helps some of the world’s poorest children thrive.

To find out more about Southern Africa and how you can help, visit marysmeals.org.uk/southern-africa

For more information on how to become a Mary’s Meals church representative or request a talk from Mary’s Meals at your parish, please contact fran.lawson@marysmeals.org.