The values of Freemasonry are based on integrity, kindness, honesty and fairness. Freemasons are taught to practice charity and to care, not only for their own, but also for the community as a whole - both by charitable giving, and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.
The values of Freemasonry are based on integrity, kindness, honesty and fairness. Freemasons are taught to practice charity and to care, not only for their own, but also for the community as a whole – both by charitable giving, and by voluntary efforts and works as individuals.
From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been concerned with the care of orphans, the sick and the aged. This work continues today. In addition, large sums are given to national and local charities.
Masonic charity is exercised at every level: individual Lodges make gifts and give aid to their own communities and every Province also gives large sums of money to regional causes. Nationally, our efforts are channeled through four main charity organisations which are:
The Freemasons’ Grand Charity, providing help for Freemasons and their families who are experiencing hardship.
The Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys, providing support that relieves poverty and addresses the educational needs of Freemasons’ children and (when funds permit) assisting any children.
The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution, providing residential, nursing and investing in research into dementia and providing care for older Freemasons and their dependants who suffer from this condition, as well as practical support for those who wish to remain in their own homes.
The Masonic Samaritan Fund, providing grants towards the costs of private medical and dental treatment in situations where there would otherwise be either a long wait for, or no access to, state-funded treatment. Grants are also available towards the cost of providing respite care.
These charities provide vital support, in many ways, to many people. They rely on the continuing support of Masons to identify those in need and to provide the donations that enable their work to be funded.
Each province takes turns to run a festival for one of the masonic charities where over a period of 5-7 years each private lodge will run events and participate in provincial events with a view to raising funds to be donated to the masonic charity chosen by the Provincial Grand Master.
In West Kent this is currently the Masonic Samaritan Fund 2015 Festival more details of this can be found here.