Now entering their fifth year of support, Freemasons from District 21 have recently donated another $6,000 to The Smith Family.
In 2017, Central Coast Freemasons received a request for financial assistance through VW Bro, Denis Young, from VIEW Clubs on the Central Coast.
According to the Freemasons it was an easy sell.
With 50 percent financial assistance from Masonicare (The Freemason Grand Charity), District 21 has raised over $23,000 for the Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, primarily by organising charity luncheons and raffles with items such as Masonic quilts and towel sets awarded to some lucky winners, and untilised the NSW Government’s Return and Earn initiative to raise further funds.
The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program was accepted with enthusiasm by the Freemasons with the proviso that all students involved were based on the Central Coast Local Government Area.
Not only does this program provide life changing financial support, allowing struggling families to purchase uniforms and stationery, it also offers a link to a coordinator who can connect children to further learning facilities, leisure activities and educational support.
During this time, District 21 has continued to support ten students, even through the current tough period of social restrictions.
Recently, with a lull in restrictions, one of District 21’s most successful events took place.
A luncheon was arranged at the Alison Homestead in Wyong with nearly 100 people attending, with all facilities open for viewing, including the collection of farm machinery dating back many years.
The historic schoolhouse was perfect to entertain the children attending.
They were horrified at the prospect of using chalk and slate in a classroom and even more so when hearing that they must remember everything, as books were very rare and expensive at the time.
As the day progressed to late afternoon, the guests were entertained by the musical talents of the City of Gosford Pipe Band, who are also supported by Freemasons on the Central Coast.
This day also enabled District 21 to present a cheque for $6,000 to the Toukley View Club to pass on to the Smith Family for their Learning for Life program.
VIEW or Voices, Interests and Education of Women, is a leading women’s national volunteer organisation, providing the opportunity for women from all walks of life to meet regularly, establish lasting friendships and help disadvantaged Australian children through supporting the work of children’s charity, the Smith Family.
As a valued part of the Smith Family, VIEW members help to change the lives of young Australians in need through fundraising, volunteering, advocating and sponsoring disadvantaged students.
Source,
Media Release, July 5
Freemasons on the Central Coast