Freemasonry and Charity

Freemasonry is one of the largest contributors of charitable donations in the UK.  Indeed, Masonic charitable donations are second only to the National Lottery in the United Kingdom and are funded through the generosity of Freemasons and their families.

The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) was set up to bring together the four national Masonic charities which had operated previously:-

• The Freemasons’ Grand Charity
• The Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys
• The Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution
• The Masonic Samaritan Fund

The help that is provided to Freemasons, their wives, widows, children and grandchildren consists of monetary grants with regards to health, education, care and financial assistance for hardship.

Freemasons equally contribute to non-masonic charities, normally within their own area and which perhaps have special connection to a particular Lodge.  H&IOW lodges contribute consistently to local hospices as one of their ‘designated’ charities.