Farewell, 2023! Freemasons’ charity the MCF reflects on £6.8m given to good causes over the year
Les Hutchinson, Chief Executive of the Freemasons’ charity the MCF, reflects on the past 12 months:
“We’ve come to the end of yet another successful year at t the MCF, and we couldn’t have done it without the unwavering support of Freemasons, their families and friends.
“Though a positive year, 2023 brought with it difficulties, both in our local communities and globally. Read on to find out how we’ve attempted to reach those in need through our various streams of support.
What has been achieved?
“With your generosity, we were able to award £6.8 million to local and national charities through 451 grants in the last financial year to support both elderly people at risk of isolation, and disadvantaged children and young people. The cost of living crisis has been a real challenge that has impacted people from all walks of life. So through 4,297 grants, we have provided support to Freemasons and families totalling £12.7 million.
“2023 was a busy year especially for our Masonic Support team, as we extended our mental health support services to include children and grandchildren of Freemasons aged 5-16, as well as our existing support for adults. This is unfortunately a growing area of need, so we are incredibly proud that we have been able to help 60 children and young people with their mental health since this service was launched.
“As we reflect on these fantastic results, it’s important to remember that our support is not limited to local communities; we also ensure we are responding to the needs that arise from global natural disasters. In early 2023, two earthquakes devastated large areas of south west Turkey and across the border in Syria, which claimed tens of thousands of lives. In response to this, we gave a grant of £60,000 to the British Red Cross to support relief work on the ground. In total, we awarded £1.2 million in grants to support disaster relief efforts in the 2022/23 financial year.
What’s next?
“Our 2022-23 Impact Report has marked the beginning of a new approach to impact and evaluation at the MCF and the continued development of a new seven-year strategy. We are committed to gathering evidence which allows us to determine the extent of our positive impact on the individuals, families, and communities we support.
“In 2024, as every year, we will continue to focus on reducing isolation in later life and creating the best start in life for disadvantaged children and young people. We will also endeavour to support medical research into degenerative diseases and fund care services in the hospice sector so we can continue to build better lives for all. If you or someone you know might benefit from our support, please do not hesitate to contact us. But please note that our offices are closed from 12pm 22 December – 2 January.
“So, as we reflect on a successful year and look ahead to a new one, please rest assured that, thanks to your support, we will continue to provide assistance to the most vulnerable people in need within Freemasonry and within our communities.”
