About Us
Our Mission
The Cornwallis East Kent Freemasons’ Charity (CEKFC) is dedicated to serving and enriching our local region. Our core mission is to support East Kent communities by providing financial help and relief for charities, voluntary organisations, and individuals in need.
We believe in maximising the benefit of every pound we donate, ensuring that our contributions not only provide financial support but also give recipient organisations the exposure they need to highlight the wonderful work they do within the community.
Where it began
The Cornwallis East Kent Freemasons’ Charity commenced its activities on February 12, 2014. We are the charitable arm of East Kent Freemasonry, focused entirely on making a tangible impact close to home.
As stated by Neil Hamilton Johnstone, Provincial Grand Master of East Kent Freemasons, the CEKFC aims to be “the face of Masonic Charity in the community.” We strive to be active partners with the charities and organisations working on the ground in East Kent.
Making an Impact Across East Kent
Since our inception, we have provided vital financial aid to a diverse range of causes, helping to fund essential services, projects, and life-changing support for those who need it most.
We provide grants and financial relief through several channels:
-
Charity Grant Applications: We offer support to registered charities and voluntary organisations operating within East Kent. Past recipients include organisations like the Kent MS Therapy Centre and the Deal Area Foodbank, where our funding helps provide critical services like specialist counselling and emergency supplies.
-
Individual Grant Applications: We offer direct financial help and relief to individuals facing genuine hardship or in need of specific support.
-
Lodge or Chapter Grants & Match Funding: We empower and support the charitable efforts of individual Masonic Lodges and Chapters within East Kent.
A History of Support
Our commitment to giving back is a long-standing tradition. In one example, the support provided by Freemasonry has extended to medical research, having previously funded a Royal College of Surgeons research fellowship which benefited consultants at the Royal Marsden Hospital.
We are proud to partner with local initiatives, from large community services to smaller, vital groups like the Bridge Village Playgroup, recognising that every contribution makes a difference.