Charity lies at the very heart of Freemasonry. For more than three centuries, Freemasons have come together not only in fellowship but in a shared commitment to helping those in need — within the Masonic community and far beyond.
The Masonic Charitable Foundation
The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF), known as The Freemasons’ Charity, is the central charity of Freemasonry under the United Grand Lodge of England. Funded entirely through the generosity of Freemasons and their families, the MCF builds better lives by encouraging opportunity, promoting independence, and improving wellbeing.
The MCF supports thousands of people every year across England, Wales, and overseas. Its work includes:
- Grants to Freemasons and families — providing financial assistance, health support, and educational opportunities for Freemasons, their partners, widows, and dependants in times of need.
- Community grants — funding local and national charities that make a real difference in areas such as poverty relief, healthcare, education, youth development, and social inclusion.
- Disaster relief — contributing to appeals for humanitarian aid and disaster response worldwide.
- Medical research — funding vital research projects to improve health outcomes.
The MCF has formed partnerships with leading organisations including Hospice UK, Home-Start UK, Age UK, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and the Cranfield Trust.
Making a Difference
In 2024/25, the MCF awarded grants totalling over £27 million. Of this, £6.6 million was awarded to 373 local and national charities, helping an estimated 466,413 people. Through the Relief Chest Scheme, Freemasons also directed a further £5 million in donations to charities of their choice in communities across England and Wales.
For every pound spent by the MCF, 82.6 pence goes directly to supporting charitable activities.
How Lodges Contribute
At a local level, individual Lodges — including Aldworth Lodge — raise funds throughout the year for both Masonic and non-Masonic causes. Whether through social events, dining donations, or dedicated fundraising initiatives, every Lodge plays its part in Freemasonry’s wider charitable mission.
The MCF’s Relief Chest Scheme allows Lodges and individual Freemasons to manage their charitable giving through donor-advised funds, ensuring that contributions reach the causes that matter most to each community.
To learn more about the Masonic Charitable Foundation and its work, visit mcf.org.uk.
For information about Freemasonry in general, visit the United Grand Lodge of England.