Two hundred and forty-two hospices across England, Wales, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands are currently receiving grants from The Freemasons’ Grand Charity totalling ?600,000.  Since 1984, the Charity has now donated more than ?11 million in support of hospices.
 
As well as many personal donations throughout the year from Freemasons and their families, Hospice Isle of Man representatives have received a cheque in the sum of ?3,304 from the Charity.
 
Speaking about the donation, the Provincial Grand Master for the Isle of Man, Keith Dalrymple, said “Freemasons in the Isle of Man are thrilled that The Freemasons’ Grand Charity has continued to provide this vital funding for our local hospice.  The care, compassion and support they provide to the community is outstanding and we are delighted that we are able to show our continuing dedication to their cause.”
 
Financial support is crucial for ensuring a continued high quality service in hospices and every year Freemasons all over the country work together to provide funding for hospice services.
 
All donations made by the Freemasons’ Grand Charity to hospices are raised by Freemasons and their families; with the aim of assisting hospices in their vital role in helping those affected by terminal cancer or life limiting illness.
 
Margaret Simpson, Chief Executive of Hospice Isle of Man added: “We are very grateful to the Freemasons and their families for their ongoing help.  Their terrific support has always been used to purchase practical items for our Hospice.  This amazing donation will cover 3 syringe pumps for administering medication, which will prove invaluable for our patients, so we are very appreciative of their kind donation.”
 
Photo - On the front row from Hospice Isle of Man are: Pippa Giddens, Registered Nurse in the In Patient Unit along with Aileen Sharp, Senior Sister, Margaret Simpson, Chief Executive and Kirstie Turner, Practice Development Nurse. Back row: Laurie Henley , Provincial Almoner, Kevin Adams, Provincial Charity Steward, Keith Dalrymple, Provincial Grand Master and Ron Corlett, Provincial Communication Officer.   Photo courtesy of Steve Babb Photography.