Masonic Benevolence Program
Acts of Benevolence from the Masonic Foundation of Nova Scotia under this program are available to Master Masons in good standing in their Lodge and their immediate families.
Benevolence is funded internally by a portfolio that was built over decades by the contributions of Masons and sound investment.
Our Objective is to “Aid and assist all poor and distressed Masons and their immediate families”. Such acts frequently involve financial assistance.
Confidentiality is paramount! These are sensitive areas; empathy is of the utmost importance as Brothers in need often do not wish to make their need known. All applications are held in the strictest confidence.
Programs of Assistance have two avenues: the Individual Program and the Assisted Home Program. Both programs use the same application and worksheet forms available in the download section.
How to Apply for Benevolent Assistance:
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Applications and worksheets are available at the bottom of the page and in the forms section. Once completed, submit them directly to the Secretary of the Masonic Foundation, who will forward them to the Chairman of the Benevolence Committee.
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Individual applications do not need Lodge approval or a signature from the Worshipful Master
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Widows and family members of a deceased Brother should apply through his Lodge, provided he was in good standing at the time of his passing
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If that Lodge is no longer active, another Lodge may assist and submit the application on the family’s behalf
What does the Benevolent Grant Cover in Assistance?
Support is available through either the Individual Program or the Assisted Home Program. Sometimes both apply depending on the need.
What Can Be Funded?
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Personal Needs: Eyeglasses, hearing aids, urgent utility bills, or travel costs for medical treatment
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Special Equipment: Items like wheelchairs, walkers, or over-bed tables not covered by insurance (must be returned when no longer needed)
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Home Modifications: Ramps, roof repairs, or kitchen/bath upgrades to support independent living
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Household Help: Limited support with cooking, cleaning, and transportation for up to 6 months (excluding professional nursing care)
Each situation is unique, and assistance is tailored to the applicant’s specific needs.
When Funding is provided for Household Assistance:
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Individuals providing assistance in the home will be engaged by the applicant, with the approval of the family members involved, but shall not themselves be a family member.
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Funds for household assistance will be based upon a rate of pay comparable to that of Department of Veterans Affairs for similar services.
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Funds for household assistance will not exceed 20 hours a week, however applications will be considered for more hours in exceptional circumstances.
Guidelines for Individual Benevolent and Assisted Home Assistance:
Requests for financial assistance may come from a Lodge or be sent directly to the Foundation's Benevolence Committee via the Grand Secretary, using the official application and worksheet.
Funding & Approval
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Lodges are encouraged to contribute financially if able
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Grants depend on available Foundation resources
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In urgent cases, up to $500 may be approved immediately, with required paperwork to follow
Application Support & Privacy
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The Applicant can apply to the Grand Secretary who will help applicants complete and understand the forms. He will explain how assistance may affect existing financial supplements, and confirm no other public aid is available. The Applicant may ask any Lodge member to assist them in applying, if they feel comfortable in doing so.
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All applications are treated as strictly confidential and not discussed in Lodge
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The Lodge Secretary keeps a secure, separate file for documentation