West Riding Masonic Charities Limited

West Riding Masonic Charities Limited, established in 1945 as the principal charitable arm of Freemasons in Yorkshire, West Riding, embodies principles of benevolence, fraternity, and community stewardship. Its core mission focuses on aiding sick, elderly, or infirm Freemasons and their dependents through welfare schemes like CHOICES (providing medical equipment, home adaptations, and hardship support) and Teddies for Loving Care (comforting children in A&E). Beyond internal support, it funds external community projects via the Provincial Grand Master's Fund, prioritizing health, education, disability services, youth initiatives, and social welfare to alleviate hardship, enhance wellbeing, and strengthen local voluntary efforts for both Masonic and non-Masonic beneficiaries.

Eligible applicants include UK-registered charities, community groups, and academic institutions operating exclusively in West and South Yorkshire (Leeds, Bradford, Sheffield, Wakefield, Barnsley, Kirklees, Calderdale, Doncaster, Rotherham), with a preference for small to medium-sized local organizations demonstrating clear community impact. Applications require nomination by a local Masonic Lodge—direct submissions are not accepted; charities without contacts should phone grant officers (Christian Jones, Graham Shiers, or Mathew Sims) first.

Minor grants (£500–£5,000) are reviewed monthly or quarterly on a rolling basis (4–12 weeks decision), while major grants (up to £25,000) need Lodge nomination by end-February for March committee review and May awards. Funding is strictly for capital projects like equipment and tangible assets—no core costs, salaries, or revenue support. This Masonic-embedded, nomination-driven model distinguishes WRMCL as a targeted regional grant-maker emphasizing practical, measurable compassion in Yorkshire's voluntary sector.