The people’s social welfare was always a prime concern for Dr. Grenfell. Schools and orphanages were built. Grenfell helped fishermen start cooperatives to get fair prices for their catch. Crafts such as carving and mat making were also encouraged.
Dr. Grenfell made some enemies. He saw church–run education as backward and wasteful. This put Grenfell at odds with the churches.
Dr. Grenfell condemned the credit system used in the fishery. Merchants and government in St. John’s saw him as wanting too much change too quickly. St. John’s merchants saw his giving clothes to the needy as a threat to their business.
Dr. Grenfell sailed the coast of Labrador to meet the people’s needs. This gave him great knowledge of the sea. Grenfell was certified as a master mariner. King George V made him a knight in 1923.
The International Grenfell Association (IGA) was set up in 1914 for the people of northern Newfoundland and Labrador. The IGA was also tasked with governing the groups that raised funds and recruited for it.