Charity

Charity is at the heart of Freemasonry.

The three Great Principles by which we as Freemasons stand are Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Freemasons are taught to practice charity and to care, not only for other Freemasons, but also for the whole community by charitable giving and by voluntary work as individuals.

From its earliest days, Freemasonry has been involved in charitable activities. Since its inception, Freemasonry has provided support not only for widows and orphans of Freemasons but also for many others within the community. Whilst some Masonic charities cater specifically but not exclusively for Masons or their dependents, others make significant grants to non-Masonic organisations. On a local level, lodges give substantial support to local causes.

Masonic charity is exercised at every level, individual Lodges make gifts and give aid to their own communities and every Masonic Province also gives large sums of money to regional causes. Nationally, our efforts are chanelled through four main charity organisations: