Glasgow City Mission marks 200 years of caring for people across the city

Few Glasgow organisations can say they have been helping people for two centuries. In 2026, Glasgow City Mission is celebrating its 200th anniversary, having cared for marginalised people in the city since 1826.

The Mission was established by a young Christian, David Nasmith, as a non-denominational Christian charity, and it is believed to be the world's first city mission. That spirit continues today, with staff and volunteers drawn from more than 100 churches in and around Glasgow.

Nasmith's influence spread far beyond the city. Shortly after founding Glasgow City Mission, he helped set up missions in Edinburgh, London and Dublin before travelling to Europe and North America, inspiring city missions in many other places. Today there are 12 missions in the UK movement, 313 in North America and many more across Europe.

The bicentenary was marked in May with four days of celebrations, as colleagues from around the world came to Glasgow to learn more about the charity's work and history. An invitation-only civic reception was held at Glasgow City Chambers on Thursday 14 May, and the celebrations ended with a church service, open to all, at Glasgow Cathedral on Sunday 17 May. A golf day at The Carrick on Loch Lomond followed in June, with other events taking place throughout the year.

The Mission's work remains firmly focused on the present. Its current projects include its City Centre project, which offers a range of support to people in need, a Child and Family Centre in Govan, and its Winter Project, which provides help for people needing emergency accommodation.

The anniversary was also recognised in the Scottish Parliament, where a motion welcomed the Mission's inclusive approach to supporting vulnerable adults and children and its ongoing fight against poverty and disadvantage in Glasgow. The motion thanked donors, volunteers and staff for their dedication over the years.

Glasgow City Mission is independent and relies on donations, which means the generosity of local people and churches has carried its work through two hundred years of change in the city.

As the winter months approach, it is a good moment to remember the volunteers who keep that tradition of care alive.

To find out more about Glasgow City Mission's projects, or how to donate or volunteer, visit glasgowcitymission.com.