During 2024, the Warrington Masonic Group has made generous contributions to several organizations, ensuring that the spirit of Christmas is felt by those who need it most. The group has donated much-needed funds to Warrington Foodbank, helping to provide essential supplies and festive treats for families in need.
With the rising cost of living, this support could not have come at a better time, ensuring that no one goes hungry during the holidays. The Warrington Group Chairman, John Tyrer, presented a cheque for £2,400 from the Warrington Freemasons to the Warrington Foodbank. Joanne Riley, the Financial Administrator for the charity said: “This is a very generous donation that will help and assist the most vulnerable in our society.”
Recognizing the plight of the homeless, the group has also extended financial assistance to a local homeless shelter ‘Room at the Inn’. This contribution will help provide a warm, safe environment and vital resources for individuals facing hardship this winter. George Heyes, Charity Steward of Ashmole Lodge No 5128 presented a cheque for £200 to them.
George was given a tour of the facilities on Winmarleigh Street. The building can accommodate up to 25 persons during the day. The clients have access to food, rest, shower facilities and advice for their social care. At night, up to 17 clients can sleep safely on camp beds, supervised by security personnel. Clients must be substance-free to use the facilities. Room at the Inn support workers Melony, Claire and Maxine visited the Warrington Masonic Hall Museum where the cheque was presented.
Adding a personal and thoughtful touch, Chris Todd of Warrington Lodge of Concord No 1250, donated teddy bears to the neonatal unit at Warrington Hospital. These cuddly companions bring comfort and smiles to the smallest and most vulnerable patients and their families, making their time in the hospital this Christmas a little brighter.
For the ninth year running, Chris Todd has escaped from choosing, writing out and sending all those Christmas cards, by slipping into the Entertainer toy shop and buying a bundle of goodies to take along to Warrington Hospital’s Neonatal unit. There, he donates the toys to the newly born Christmas babies. “Sorry if you missed your card, but the toys do far more good!” said Chris.
The Warrington Masonic Group has donated new bedding, towels, duvets and other goods to the St Joseph’s Family Centre, which provides a range of support to families and individuals in the Warrington area, ensuring that individuals and families in need can stay warm and comfortable during the cold winter months.
The St Joseph’s Family Centre, which is situated on Museum Street in the town, delivers counselling for children and adults and emergency material welfare support for local families. The Warrington Group Chairman, John Tyrer, was delighted to drop the items off at the centre where one of the workers, Dawn, said: “The bedding and towels were amazing and will make a huge difference to some of the most needy in our society.” Warrington Group Chairman, John Tyrer said: “By supporting these vital causes, the group continues to play a crucial role in making Warrington a better place for everyone.”
Story and photographs by Neil Thomas.