Devon Freemasons donate over £30,000 to local charities and community groups

Freemasons from across Devon gathered this autumn to distribute more than £30,000 in grants to 20 deserving local charities and community organisations. The funds, raised through the WAKE Fund, support a wide range of initiatives, from children’s charities and youth centres to hospices and mental health services.

The WAKE Fund, named after William Alexander Kneel, the late Devonshire Provincial Grand Master, has grown to an impressive £2.3 million since its inception. William Alexander Kneel served as Devonshire Provincial Grand Master from 1970 to 1984. His legacy lives on through the fund, which has become a vital source of support for Devon's charities. Annual income from the fund, currently around £50,000, is distributed to local causes, thanks to the generosity of Devonshire Freemasons and prudent investments.

At a ceremony held at the Uffculme Masonic Hall, Anthony Eldred, Devonshire Freemasons Charity Steward, welcomed representatives from the recipient organisations: "It was a great pleasure to meet and chat with the charities’ representatives and contribute to the excellent work they do in our communities. Despite challenging weather, over 100 guests and Freemasons attended, making it a truly memorable event."

Nicholas Ball, Provincial Grand Master of Devonshire Freemasons, spoke of the importance of the event: "This is one of the highlights of our Masonic calendar. Supporting small, local charities that make such a difference in our communities is incredibly special. Hearing about their work is moving and reminds us why we are so committed to helping them."

Among the 20 beneficiaries, notable grants included:

• Uplift (Devon) Children’s Charity: £1,500 to support workshops improving mental and physical health for families with children under five.

• Reverse Rett: £1,500 to fund swimming therapy for those affected by Rett Syndrome, a neurological condition that leaves individuals with lifelong disabilities.

• Exmouth Gateway Club: £1,500 to help 120 disabled members develop social and independence skills through improved storage facilities for the club's equipment.

• Plymouth Night Patrol: £1,500 to support volunteers providing free medical and welfare aid in Plymouth's nightlife areas.

• Children’s Hospice South West: £1,500 to provide critical care for children aged 0-21 with life-limiting illnesses.

• Pete’s Dragon: £1,500 to support families affected by suicide with timely, professional assistance.

• Starcross Dons Youth FC: £1,500 to enhance their sports facilities, benefiting 300 young footballers in the area.

The wide range of donations reflects the Freemasons’ commitment to addressing diverse community needs. Projects funded this year include mental health support at the Well-Being Café in Okehampton, theatre opportunities for neurodiverse adults through the All Stars Theatre Group, and outdoor adventures for young scouts in the Horrabridge & Buckland Monachorum Scout Group.

For more information about the WAKE Fund and the organisations it supports, visit www.devonshirefreemasons.org.uk.