Freemasonry is the one of the world’s oldest non-religious, non-political, fraternal and charitable organisations. Indeed, it is said that a distinguishing characteristic of every Freemason’s heart is Charity.

Freemasons give from their own means, doing what they can to support both public and Masonic Charities.

Traditionally, there have been four main Charities, each offering a specific type of support to Freemasons and their families. They are now working together as part of a single Masonic charitable trust called the Masonic Charitable Foundation.

• The Freemasons’ Grand Charity, which supports Freemasons and their dependents in financial need.
• Royal Masonic Trust for Girls and Boys, which helps children and young people from Masonic families in distress.
• Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution, which provides residential and other care services for the elderly.
• Masonic Samaritan Fund, which offers access to a range of health-related services.

Each year, the Foundation provides relief grants to Masons, their families and external charities.  Last year, over £14 million went to supporting Masonic causes and over £4 million to help the wider community.

Masonic charitable giving is the second largest largest contributor in the country after the National Lottery.