At a Yorkshire West Riding level our charity activities are set around two main sources
WEST RIDING MASONIC CHARITIES LTD
For over 146 years the Province of Yorkshire West Riding charitable activity is directed under a Charitable Trust called West Riding Masonic Charities Ltd. It continues to give invaluable service and support to members and communities who fall within its remit.
In order to maintain a ‘Charitable’ status it has a separate and independent Constitution to that of the Province and is governed by a majority of members who are not ‘Rulers’ in the Craft. This important distinction has to be maintained at all times, not only to demonstrate that charitable funds are only used for charitable purposes i.e. charitable relief and charitable activity administration, but equally to demonstrate that the trustees do not compromise their position through their wider involvement and senior rank in Freemasonry.
THE PROVINCIAL GRAND MASTER’S FUND
The Provincial Grand Master’s Fund aims to help, not individual’s direct, but local organisations, such as youth activities, disability interest groups, community facilities etc.
The money provided is not for running the organisation, but for capital purchases and projects– a new football strip, a computer or projector for giving talks and conversion of property to make access improvements etc. Again all applications require the support of a local Lodges and full details of the project and costings, and how the organisation itself is working to raise funds.
Each year some £100,000 is given enabling local community activities to thrive and develop.