WAKE Fund Presentation – Autumn 2023

Devon Freemasons Donate £24,000 to 19 Local Devon Charities & Organisations

Every Spring and Autumn Freemasons from all around Devon meet to support local organisations who require financial assistance, among which are children’s charities, schools, youth centres and locally based charities including hospices, hospital services and cancer charities.

The money is raised through the “WAKE FUND”, a trust conceived by William Alexander Kneel, the Devonshire Provincial Grand Master from 1970 to 1984, the late owner of Kneels laundry & dry cleaners (now Johnsons). Since the idea was initiated, the fund has grown through the continued generosity of Devonshire Freemasons and wise investments. Today it stands at £2.3 million from which the trustees distribute the income generated, currently around £50,000 each year.

W.Bro Anthony Eldred, Devonshire Freemasons Charity Steward:
“Since the first disbursement in 2001, over £970,000 has been given by the Devon Freemasons WAKE Fund to charities and other worthy causes throughout Devon, selected by the 122 Masonic lodges within the county. Over 1000 charities and organisations have benefited since it started. Charity and service to our communities are fundamental principles of Freemasonry. And This Autumn on Friday 10th November 7.30pm at, Mount Edgcumbe Masonic Hall, Citadel Road, Plymouth, PL1 2NG, Nicholas Ball, the Provincial Grand Master for the Devonshire Freemasons presented cheques to 19 local good causes amounting to £24,000.”

Provincial Grand Master of Devonshire Freemasons Rt.W. Bro Nicholas Ball:
“The 2 WAKE evenings per year are always so special and bring us much closer to the public. This again did not disappoint. There are some wonderful kind people working for charities who do so much to make our communities a better place to live. Their stories make us as Freemason’s feel truly humble and we are delighted to continue our support for them. The Freemasons of Devonshire should be very proud of this fund and of the efforts of the Provincial Benevolent committee.”

North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team were awarded £1,250.00 to support the aid of our new Incident Control Unit.
Jenny Doe, Dave Cavanan and Harry Price: “We’re equipping a new search and rescue control vehicle, and the donation will help us in the installation of the radio and ICT equipment, thanks very much.”