Freemasons give £7,500 to aid needy in Devon

Devon Freemasons have donated £7,500 to Devon Community Foundation to help support people in need across the county. Last week the Chief Executive DCF, Martha Wilkinson was delighted to be presented with the cheque by Ian Kingsbury, the Provincial Grand Master of Devonshire Freemasons.

The generous gift brings the total donated over the last 4 years to £27,000 and will be allocated to the Foundation’s Community Grants, supporting hundreds of voluntary and community groups offering local people in need a helping hand.

Ian Kingsbury who was accompanied by the Devonshire Provincial Charity Steward Barry White said: “It is a delight for us as Freemasons to be able to assist such a worthwhile and important local organisation, helping them to reach out to those most in need in our local communities.”

The funds will support community groups like Seaton & District Memory Café who received a £1,000 cash boost to support people suffering from dementia and their carers with practical information and support, helping to reduce their isolation and fears.

One of their members recently commented “A truly wonderful place to be part of, we’re welcomed with smiles and laughter, everyone takes part and we’re given two hours of pure joy. Meeting other people is so important.”

Martha Wilkinson commented: “Over the last year we've given £495,556 to 147 local projects helping 58,539 local people in need. We could not do this without the support of individuals, families, and organisations such as the Devon Freemasons. I cannot thank them enough for their continued generosity, their contribution really will make a significant difference to local people’s lives.”