Masonic Charities and Welfare is an integral part of what we do.
There is an effective and big support network for masons that is available. Even if you think you would not qualify for help, we ALWAYS say apply. It is not always guaranteed, but if we can help, we will.
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Who is eligible for help.
Freemasons and those with a strong family connection……
It is not assessed on your membership status. If you are a country member, honouree member or even unattached, you are may still be entitled to support.
It does not matter what rank or position you hold in the lodge.
A Mason’s family member…..
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Your partner Or Dependent
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Your children (in education up to the age of 24)
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Disabled dependant which has time limit on it.
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Your Grandchildren.
N.B. Entitlement will only cease if the United Grand Lodge of England (not your own lodge) exclude you. Dependants even if excluded, may still be entitled to assistance.
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How do I apply
In the first instance talk to your Lodge Almoner who can sign post you in the right direction. Your Almoner can contact your area almoner for assistance if he is not sure on what’s available.
The Provincial Almoner is there should you feel that you cannot use your Lodge of Area Almoner for advice.
WE ALWAYS ENCOURAGE:
Direct contact via the internet or telephone helpline to the MCF (Masonic Charitable Foundation).
The reason for this is, should you wish to apply for help the MCF will need to communicate with you for eligibility and information on your case.
DO I QUALIFY FOR ASSISTANCE VIA THE MCF?
There is an eligibility checker on the MCF web site that you can fill out and will give guidance.
Recognition around Mental Health is topic that is more talked about than ever
The MCF provides that very support, please click the link. It is OK not to be OK and it is good to talk
Masonic Charities
Charity has always been a core principle of Freemasonry, and over the last 300 years, Freemasons have established several charities – including schools, care homes, and a hospital.
The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) was created in 2016 and brought together the work of four separate charities: The Freemasons’ Grand CharityThe Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys The Masonic Samaritan FundThe Royal Masonic Benevolent InstitutionThe legacy of these charities and the principal of charity can be seen today through the work of the MCF.
Funded entirely through the generosity of Freemasons and their families, the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) is one of the largest grant-making charities in the country.
We build better lives by enabling opportunity, advancing healthcare and education and promoting independence.
Here is the breakdown of the great work from the welfare team
The Grand Lodge started the Royal Masonic Benevolent Annuity Fund for men in 1842 and for females in 1849.
In 1850, the first Home was opened in East Croydon and the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution (RMBI) was established.
The Home remained in Croydon for over 100 years until 1955 when it was transferred to Harewood Court in Hove after identifying the need for bigger premises.
Today, RMBI Care Co. has 17 care homes in England and Wales and supports older Freemasons, their families and people in the wider community with residential care, nursing and dementia support.
Teddies for Loving Care - TLC
Teddies for Loving Care, or TLC as it is more commonly known, is a charity set up some 16 years ago by a Freemason in Essex.
On taking his wife to their local A&E Department for treatment, they both quickly realised the fear that children must go through when they have to be admitted into A&E, so they set about forming a charity to raise funds from Freemasons.
It soon gathered momentum throughout the country and is now well established in all Provinces.
TLC is now able to provide Teddies to A&E Departments for the staff to give to distressed children where they feel the Teddies would relieve their stress.
To date, Cheshire Freemasons have donated more than 161,000 Teddies to the A&E Departments in all of the major hospitals throughout Cheshire.
TLC also provides Teddies to Clatterbridge Children’s Cancer Care Unit where they are given to children who are being treated for cancer.
