M and C Trust

The M and C Trust is a private charitable trust established in 1972 by Cecil George Bernstein, with a sharpened focus since 1999 on advancing Jewish causes and broad social welfare. Governed by a small group of trustees who meet annually, it embodies conservative stewardship of endowment funds, prioritizing public benefit in line with Charity Commission guidance. Operating without staff or fundraising, it channels nearly all investment income into discreet grant-making to foster Jewish community life and address welfare needs, maintaining a low-profile, family-trust ethos that emphasizes enduring impact over publicity.

It supports UK charitable institutions—never individuals—with general and core funding for activities aligned to Jewish priorities and social welfare missions, such as community organizations tackling religious, communal, and broader societal needs. Grants enable both ongoing operations and projects, with a track record of steady awards to small- and medium-sized charities demonstrating clear alignment.

Eligible applicants must be UK-registered charities based in the UK, with no formal income thresholds but a preference for established entities in Jewish or welfare sectors. Unsolicited applications are not accepted; trustees proactively identify reputable beneficiaries, making no response to unsuccessful approaches and holding one annual meeting for decisions, with no deadlines or application forms.

Typical grants range from £5,000 to £40,000, totaling around £150,000–£160,000 yearly, as in 2023's £159,000 distribution. Distinctive for its exclusive institutional focus, rejection of proactive outreach, and unwavering commitment to Jewish-social welfare niches, it suits aligned UK charities seeking reliable, understated private trust support without competitive processes.