Cheshire Freemasons donate circa £1mil to charities and good causes in 2023
On Monday 4th December a number of Cheshire’s leading Charities and members of the Cheshire Freemasons came together to hear more about how funds provided had been put to good use to positively improve the lives of so many. The stories were incredible
Head of the Cheshire Freemasons, David Dyson, welcomed a number of local dignitaries and charity representatives and voluntary workers from an array of organisations, some household names, others less known, But all equally fabulous charities. During the evening, David confirmed his commitment on behalf of all Cheshire Freemasons, to continue to support Local and National good causes during these testing times and beyond and thanked the many charities in attendance for their time and commitment as they help so many people in Cheshire and further afield.
A number of the charities had provided videos of thanks which explained more about what they do and the Freemasons who attended, took the opportunity to meet the charity representatives to find out more about how they are using their share of the £1Million donated by Cheshire Freemasons to make a difference. The feedback was inspiring.
David said “As Freemasons, one thing that remains at the forefront of all we do, is our determination and resolve to support organisations that need financial help – we have been doing this for 300 years. Freemasons are well known for their support of those in need, last year alone giving around £50 million to charities and good causes, putting Freemasonry into the top 10 of grant making organisations in the UK. We will continue to play our part in Cheshire, and I know my colleagues around the country will do the same”.
David added “Freemasons are not a charity themselves and do not collect money from the public, but every Lodge makes collections from its members for charitable use, and this soon adds up, there being approx. 3,500 Cheshire Freemasons. Some of the funds go directly to charities and good causes, some to local charitable organisations and some to the Freemasons national charity, which then gives money to both national and international good causes. Our members, like so many others, are working hard across their communities and as an organisation, we are doing the same. It is also worth noting that members give in excess of 50,000 charitable hours to support good causes and the community in which they live.”
Senior Cheshire Freemason Harry Wright, who has worked closely with David for many years, handed over the resigns of liaising with charities to John Lacey during the evening. Harry said “The celebration evening was a great success and well attended by many recipients who had received support.
John said “All in attendance were very grateful and keen to show their appreciation, but in reality, it is us who are thanking them who work so hard and do amazing things day in and day out”.