The Mary Thompson Fund
The Mary Thompson Fund (MTF) was established in 2001 following the passing of Mary Thompson: a well-known Middlesbrough teacher, human rights defender and supporter of refugees. It became a registered charity in 2006. The aim of the fund is to provide practical help for people seeking and refused asylum and settled refugees and their families residing in the Tees Valley. Every penny raised goes to support our beneficiaries, with nothing claimed for expenses by the 8 trustees. The MTF organises drop-ins in Middlesbrough and Stockton – all run by committed volunteers, and with free accommodation provided by Middlesbrough Council and our sister refugee charity, Justice First. The drop-ins provide a variety of support including friendship and general advice and support, a hot meal, a free haircut, food and toiletries and a small cash payment. In Middlesbrough the drop-in is every other Tuesday, and every Friday in Stockton-on-Tees, both run by a team of volunteers: many involved from the very beginning of the fund.