After their regular meeting had closed and everything had been put away and all secrets locked in a safe repository, non-Masons were invited into the lodge room. The WM and officers of West Lancashire Century Lodge No 2349 then gave a short explanation of their roles in the lodge and questions from the guests were answered with delicacy and decorum.
Following the question-and-answer session, the brethren and their guests retired to the dining room for an enjoyable festive board where a raffle raised £250. The whole amount being donated to a local charity known as the Fylde Kids Foundation. In attendance to receive the donation was the founder of the charity, Tom Wyatt, and the WM Keith Carter had the pleasure of presenting the cheque for £250 to Tom on behalf of the lodge and guests. Tom then gave a presentation on what the charity does.
Tom explained that the Fylde Kids Foundation was formed to help underprivileged children from any local family, whether they receive benefits or are a working family. There are four people involved in the charity, himself and three trustees, assisted by a few dedicated helpers. The main criteria of the charity is the need of the child and the charity only works with families on the Fylde coast. They collaborate with schools and local organisations to supply food parcels, clothing and essential school supplies, ensuring that children get what they need to thrive and grow.
The charity also helps children that have just moved or become unintentionally homeless. Tom explained that the donation on the evening of £250 will go towards buying beds for the children, some bedding and basic items to start building themselves a home for themselves, instead of just living rough.
Thanking the lodge for the kind donation, Tom informed the audience that the charity does not receive any grants. All the funds received are from organisations such as the Freemasons and by organising fund raising events such as sponsored walks. For further information about the charity, click here.