Welcome to the Newtownards District Masonic Charity Committee (NDMCC) and Masonic Charity at Newtownards Masonic Hall & Community Hub
In the heart of Newtownards lies a vibrant community dedicated to the values of brotherhood, support, and philanthropy. We are proud to introduce the Newtownards District Masonic Charity Committee, and our Registered Charity, Newtownards District Masonic Charity Fund (CCNI No. 101729). These are organisations focused on making a positive impact in the lives of those in need within our Masonic Order and wider community. At the Newtownards Masonic Hall, we embrace the spirit of charity and service, fostering a culture of compassion and goodwill.
Who We Are
The NDMCC is composed of members from the local Masonic lodges who actively seek to help those in our community who are struggling. Guided by the principles of Freemasonry—brotherly love, relief, and truth—we are committed to identifying needs and providing support to individuals and families, regardless of their background or beliefs. We work in conjunction with the main Masonic Charities associated with the Grand Lodge of Ireland and the Masonic Province of Down;
Our mission is clear: to uplift and assist those who are facing challenges in their lives, whether they are financial, emotional, or social. By pooling our resources and talents, we aim to bring hope and relief to our community members, demonstrating that a collective effort can create meaningful change.
1. Immediate Financial Assistance
When crisis strikes, timely support can make all the difference. Our committee provides immediate financial assistance to members of the order and their families that are facing unexpected hardships. By addressing urgent needs, we help families regain their footing and look towards a brighter future.
2. Support for Masonic Widows
We assist deserving widows and families, including mothers and sisters of Freemasons in the Province of Down (outside Belfast), through means-tested annual annuities tailored to their financial situations. A Bereavement Grant is also available upon the death of any mason within the district.
3. Educational Support
Education is a fundamental stepping stone to success. Through the Freemasons of Ireland Girls & Boys Fund, we offer scholarships and grants to deserving students who are children of deceased Masons. We help them pursue their academic goals. By investing in education, we empower the next generation to achieve their dreams and become active contributors to society.
In addition to financial aid, the fund encourages young people in Ireland to engage with education in all its forms, including through music. Initiatives like the Irish Freemasons Young Musician of the Year exemplify this commitment, promoting cultural enrichment and personal development among youth.
Assistance from the fund is administered with the utmost confidentiality and respect for the dignity of applicants. The application process is designed to be straightforward and supportive, with guidance available through local Masonic lodges.
4. Community Outreach Programs
We believe in the power of community. Our outreach events are designed to support those in need through food banks, clothing collections, and seasonal initiatives. Partnering with various local organisations, we strive to meet the pressing needs of vulnerable populations within our community.
Our efforts focus on practical assistance, ensuring that basic needs such as food, warmth, and essential supplies are met during times of hardship. Working alongside established charities and support services, we contribute resources and volunteer time to strengthen the safety net available to those most at risk.
Through these activities, we affirm our commitment to service and to the principle that strong communities are built through compassion, cooperation, and a willingness to act in support of one another.
5. Health and Wellness Initiatives
Recognising the importance of physical and mental health, we provide resources and support for individuals facing health challenges. We host health awareness days and collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure that our members and their families have access to essential information and services.
Through initiatives such as our Health and Wellbeing Day, we offer free health checks, hearing tests, cancer screenings, and skin assessments. These events are organised in partnership with respected organisations, including the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, Cancer Focus NI, and local wellbeing coordinators. By making health services accessible in a supportive environment, we aim to promote early detection and preventative care among our community.
At these events, attendees also benefit from educational talks on nutrition, smoking cessation, and emotional wellbeing. With expert advice available on-site, we provide opportunities for individuals to gain practical tools and knowledge to support their personal health journeys.
Our commitment extends beyond clinical services. We foster a welcoming atmosphere where members, families, and friends can gather, connect, and access resources in a relaxed setting. By combining healthcare outreach with community spirit, we reinforce the principle that wellbeing is strengthened through compassion, awareness, and early action.
We are proud to work closely with local charities and health organisations who share our values. These partnerships enable us to expand the reach of our support, ensuring that individuals affected by serious health conditions receive not only medical guidance but also emotional encouragement. By standing together, we help build a stronger, healthier community where no one feels they have to face challenges alone.
6. Local Impact
Supporting local non-masonic charities is crucial for cultivating a vibrant and resilient community. These organisations address the specific needs of our neighbours, offering essential services and support where it’s needed most. By donating, volunteering, or simply raising awareness, we contribute to solutions that are tailored to our community’s unique challenges. Investing in local non-masonic charities not only uplifts those in need but also reinforces our place in the community’s social fabric, creating a lasting and positive impact for everyone involved.
Through ongoing collaboration with local charities, we help extend the reach of vital services such as youth programmes, food initiatives, health support, and emergency aid. These partnerships allow us to share resources, expertise, and goodwill, strengthening the bonds between organisations and the people they serve. By working hand-in-hand with trusted local groups, we ensure that help is both meaningful and immediate, making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Get Involved with Us
The success of our charitable initiatives relies on the support and involvement of Masonic and non-Masonic members of the community like you.
There are many ways to contribute:
Your generous contributions directly support our charitable programs. Every donation counts and is instrumental in helping us provide assistance to those in need.
We welcome volunteers to join our efforts. Whether it’s organising or helping at events, providing administrative support, or sharing your skills, your time can help us make a greater impact.
Share our mission with your friends, family, and network. Increasing awareness about our initiatives helps us reach more people who need assistance and encourages community involvement.
Join Us in Our Commitment to Charity
The Newtownards District Masonic Charity Committee and the Newtownards Masonic Hall & Community Hub are dedicated to fostering a spirit of compassion and service. By working together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of individuals and families in our community.
Together, we can strengthen our community, uplift those in need, and create a legacy of kindness and charity that will resonate for generations to come. Thank you for your support, and we look forward to making a difference together!
