Dear Brother Provincial Almoner, as the time approaches for Mark Masons’ Hall to close for 2013 I want to thank you all for your help and assistance in preparing the many applications received this year. We are working well together to bring relief to many Mark Masons in need as quickly as we can, and that is something to be really proud of. Please also pass on my thanks to all of your Lodge Almoners and Charity Stewards for their hard work in getting the information to me.
Before I sign off for the year I want to share a few statistics with you.
In 2013 the Fund gave £132,017 to Mark Masons in need, their wives, widows and children. This is an increase of 36% on the 2012 figure and the Fund saw a 12% rise in applications received to 107. You may be surprised to learn that 36% of the applicants in 2013 were first time Petitioners from Provinces and Districts throughout Mark Masonry – a phenomenal amount. It just goes to show how many of our Brethren are in need.
I send you all my very best wishes for the festive season and look forward to working with you in the new year. Mark Masons’ Hall will reopen after the Christmas break on Monday 6thJanuary 2014.
Wishing you a Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year
Kind regards
Darren Coleman
Charities Coordinator