Information Release: 6 March 2009

Between December 2008 and February 2009, 434 Masonic Relief Grants were made to support individual Masons and their dependants experiencing financial need or requiring mobility equipment.  In total, £828,703 was approved for payment to assist the beneficiaries.

Masonic Relief Grants represent one of the primary activities of The Freemasons’ Grand Charity.  Grants are made to Masons or the dependants of deceased Masons – including widows, partners and also divorced/separated spouses or partners – who are experiencing hardship; no case of genuine need is ever rejected.

Grants are made for essential daily living costs, unexpected needs or towards the provision of mobility equipment.  They typically range from £100 up to £4,500 per applicant per year, and can be renewed for as long as the need lasts.  In cases of exceptional need larger grants may be awarded.

Applications are assessed against guidelines taking into account the income, expenditure and savings of the applicant, but as a guide individuals with a Masonic connection who are in receipt of support from the State, such as Pension Credit, are likely to qualify.

For further information on Masonic Relief Grants, including eligibility criteria and the application process, contact:

Sandra Neary: Tel – 020 7395 9391 / Email – sneary@the-grand-charity.org

Mike Martin: Tel – 020 7395 9293 / Email – mmartin@the-grand-charity.org

Wayne