Our objects are:

The promotion of the establishment continuation, efficiency and effectiveness of almshouses in Stratford-upon-Avon. The provision of social housing in the form of almshouse accommodation for people in need by reason of age, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantage. The relief of poverty amongst current almshouse residents in Stratford-upon-Avon by providing: grants, items and services to individuals in need and/or charities, or other organisations working to prevent or to reduce the need, hardship or distress of such persons; The relief of poverty amongst residents of Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding area by providing: grants, items and services to individuals in need and/or charities, or other organisations working to prevent or to reduce the need, hardship or distress of such persons; Any other charitable purpose which shall be selected by the Trustees in their absolute discretion from time to time.

The Municipal Charities of Stratford-Upon charity has a long and detailed history of helping local people with housing via a number of charities set up by well-meaning bodies, philanthropic individuals and families connected with Stratford upon Avon. Over the years, a number of various charities have amalgamated resulting in the existing five separate almshouse charities. These comprise Guild Cottages; Shakespeare Court, Mary Newlands, John Roberts and St Joseph’s Homestead. Our Mission is to provide low-cost, self-contained accommodation for older people of limited financial means. In all we offer accommodation to 47 residents. People are able to apply to become residents if they are financially deprived and all residents have limited savings and are almost all in receipt of housing benefit. Our philosophy is to encourage independent living. We also offer grants through the Stratford-upon-Avon Relief in Need Charity. This assists vulnerable local individuals and families in their "hour of need " by awarding grants for basic items and services deemed essential for their health and welfare. This charity also gives financial assistance to local organisations who provide specialist support and/or services to local individuals and families whose needs fall within the Charity's eligibility criteria of being resident in Stratford-upon-Avon and the surrounding area. During 2020, grants of £62,390 were given out (£87,584 in 2019). Of this figure grants of £22,931 (£35,252 – 2019) were paid to individuals. In addition, £9,000 (£3,000 in 2019) was given to Citizens Advice South Warwickshire to give out as hardship grants to individuals. This year £7,360 was paid to HEART towards the conversion of accommodation for a disabled young person and further grants of £23,100 (£49,332 in 2019) were paid to institutions in respect of a variety of types of financial support. This is financial support that makes a difference to peoples lives with the provision of items such as fridges, cookers, carpets and food vouchers.