Our Story

The MCS Foundation was created by Richard van der Knaap with a heartfelt mission — to help disadvantaged children reach their potential. The foundation supports charities that give children and young people access to education, nourishment, safety, and the care they need to overcome challenges such as poverty, neglect, and abuse.

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Originally from South Africa, Richard moved to the UK in 1973 and built a successful business career. Grateful for the opportunities he’d had, he wanted to give back and make a difference for children and young people who weren’t as fortunate. The MCS Foundation grew from that vision — to help close the gap for children held back by circumstance, disability, or culture.

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Funded by MCS Rental Software Ltd, the company Richard also founded, the foundation has no paid staff, ensuring that all the money raised goes directly to helping children. Each year, Richard donates 10% of company profits, and so far, the foundation has contributed more than £300,000 to projects in England, Kenya, South Africa, Ukraine, and Australia.

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The foundation is guided by five trustees — Richard, his wife Mona, their daughter Cherry, son Guy, and daughter-in-law Miriam. Cherry also serves as the foundation’s Charity Co-ordinator, helping to identify and work closely with the charities they support. Together, the trustees share a deep commitment to creating meaningful, lasting change in the lives of children and their communities.

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Learn more about the charities that the MCS Foundation supports.

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