History

For over a century, Medical Mission Aid (MMA) has tirelessly sought to improve health outcomes in under resourced communities through the practical expression of God’s love for all humankind.

MMA commenced in 1920 as an auxiliary of Church Missionary Society (CMS) supporting medical missionaries with vital medical equipment.  Based on the Biblical teaching of God’s love and compassion in Christ and the mandate to the church to care for the poor, sick and victims of injustice, MMA is dedicated to improving health outcomes in under resourced communities.

Initially, MMA packed and shipped boxes of vital health equipment to support the work of these missionaries. The first recorded boxes were to Foochow in China. A number of Melbourne churches had MMA Auxiliaries who assisted with sewing baby clothes for remote and rural hospitals and fundraising for shipment of equipment.  These groups were not only in Victoria but also in NSW and Tasmania.

Alongside this practical ministry was the MMA Op Shop, initially in Malvern, then Hawthorn, Kew and most recently in Balwyn. The Op Shop fundraised for MMA and ceased trading during 2019.

MMA current raises support by vital donations from a vibrant community of schools, churches, craft groups, companies, charitable trusts and individuals through donations and bequests.  This generosity has enabled funding of health professional scholarships in rural and remote communities and community transformation through preventative health programs and vital facility improvement.

In 2014, MMA registered as not-for profit organisation, continuing to support improved health outcomes through local Church partners and Christian development partners.

Today, MMA is a company limited by guarantee, led by a dedicated board, supported by a part-time employee and a faithful team of volunteers and supporters.