In the quarter Feb to Apr 09, the Masonic Relief Grants Committee of the Freemasons’ Grand Charity considered 515 applications for financial assistance. Of these applications 437 resulted in Masonic Relief Grants being made or mobility equipment being supplied to support these Freemasons and/or their dependants experiencing financial need or physical difficulties.

This assistance represents an expenditure of £866,112.00 (in this quarter alone) approved for payment to assist Freemasons and/or their dependents who are having real financial difficulties.

The work of the Masonic Relief Grants Committee and Section represents one of the primary activities of The Freemasons’ Grand Charity. Assistance is available to Freemasons or the dependants of deceased Freemasons – including widows, partners and can include divorced or separated spouses or partners – who are experiencing real hardship; no case of genuine need is ever knowingly rejected.

Grants are made to assist applicants with their essential daily living costs, unexpected needs.  These grants range between £100 and £4,500 for an applicant to last for one year. If an applicant’s circumstances have not improved they are able to apply for a new grant after one year. Support can and will continue as long as the need remains.  In cases of really exceptional need the Committee may consider a larger grant is appropriate.

Applications are assessed against the Charity’s guidelines for assistance, these take into account the income, certain essential expenditure and the savings of the applicant. This process also determines the amount of any grant. However, generally speaking an applicant who is in receipt of support from the State (such as Pension Credit or Income Support) is likely to qualify.

If you or a brother/widow you know are finding it hard or are unable to pay life’s essential bills (gas, electric, water, rent etc) you should contact your Lodge Almoner who can instigate an application for Masonic Relief.