In a heart-warming display of philanthropy, the brethren of Goodwill Lodge No 3296 hosted its second Giving Morning at its home at Widnes Masonic Hall, where this year it was joined by another Masonic Order in donating a total of £5,050 to 13 deserving charities.
Against the backdrop of camaraderie and warmth, members of the lodge, alongside family and friends, gathered over tea and coffee to not only share fellowship but also to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Following an introduction to the morning’s proceedings by Regional Charity Steward Bob Williams, a warm welcome was given to all attending from the master of the lodge Rob Smith; The spirit of giving was palpable as representatives from each charity received their share of the donations, ranging from organisations supporting healthcare and education to those championing social welfare.
This diverse range of causes reflects the lodge’s commitment to making a positive impact across various sectors of society. Donations from the brethren of Goodwill Lodge are as follows; St Michaels and St Thomas’s Pantry Appeal – £250, Nightstop Communities – £250, Sam’s Diamonds Cancer Support – £250, Child Bereavement UK – £250, Academy Cheer Gymnastics Club – £250, Halton Play Council – £250, JUMP Children’s Charity – £250, Halton Cancer Support – £250, Zoe’s Place – £300, Macmillan Nursing – £2,000, giving a total of £4,300.
Donations from other Masonic Orders were as follows; Stick ‘n’ Steps Children with Cerebral Palsy – £250, Armed Forces Community Hub – £250, Alzheimer’s Charity – £250, giving a total of £750.
What makes this event truly embracing is not just the generosity of the donations, but also the inclusive and collaborative approach taken by the Goodwill Lodge brethren. By involving its members in the selection process for its charity disbursement and by inviting representatives from each charity to attend and update the gathered assembly on the good work that they do and how the lodge’s support will help continue that work, the lodge has fostered a sense of community and shared purpose.
It must be noted that the significance of these donations extends far beyond the monetary value. They represent hope, support and solidarity for the individuals and communities served by these charities. Whether it’s providing essential resources to those in need, funding ground-breaking research, or advocating for positive change, each contribution has the potential to create ripple effects of positivity and transformation.
Moreover, the Giving Morning serves as a powerful reminder of the values that lie at the core of Freemasonry; charity, fellowship, and benevolence. Through their fundraising at various lodge functions from a weekend break to Llandudno, a charity race night, summer bar-b-que and Ladies Festival the brethren of Goodwill Lodge exemplify these principles, embodying the timeless tradition of giving back to society and uplifting those in need by making a difference.
Report by Bob Williams, Regional Charity Steward.