| Founded | 2013 [1] |
|---|---|
| Type | Humanitarian relief organisation |
| Focus | Emergency response, community support, crisis relief [1] |
| Origins | Founded by members of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church [1] |
Area served | Worldwide (Australia, New Zealand, UK, Europe, USA, Canada, Caribbean, South America, Africa) [1] |
| Products | Emergency food boxes, water, care kits |
| Method | Volunteer-led rapid response teams delivering practical support and donated aid [1] |
| Website | www.rrtglobal.org |
Rapid Relief Team, also known as RRT, is a multinational nonprofit established in 2013 by the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church. The organization provides emergency food and welfare support to disaster-affected communities, first responders, and vulnerable groups across multiple countries. [1] [2] [3]
RRT was founded with the mission of delivering catering assistance and tangible support during crises. [4] Since then, it has expanded operations to over 16 countries, including Australia, the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Argentina, and parts of Europe. [1]
The establishment of RRT occurred during a period of regulatory scrutiny directed at the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, which founded and operates the charity. In 2012, the Charity Commission for England and Wales refused charitable status to the PBCC’s Preston Down Trust, citing concerns over lack of public benefit. [5] The PBCC appealed the decision. [6] [7] Charitable status was granted and the Commission concluded the Preston Downs Trust could demonstrate public benefit by, among other steps, "engaging to a certain extent in the wider community, including through disaster relief". [8]
In 2018 it was reported that, despite RRT's public claim that "100 per cent" of donations to its Australian drought appeal would reach farmers, nearly half of the funds raised in 2016-2017 were used for internal expenses. [9]
In 2024, South Australia's Department of Health (SA Health) formally ceased collaboration with RRT, citing concerns over its affiliation with the PBCC. [10]
RRT has faced criticism due to its close association with the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church (PBCC). Critics and former members allege that RRT functions as a "brand-washing" initiative, helping to deflect criticism of the social harms caused by these practices. [11]