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Surprisingly, there is no exact time when action
starts. Most probably it is when you first have a suspicion that something is
not quite right or needs investigation. After that some things must be handled
at once, whilst others will need a more leisurely path.
Money is very often what is needed but not always. Even if money is required, advice and companionship may be important. Always bear in mind that the person needing help has probably been desperately trying to avoid this situation for a long time. Embarrassment and shame are emotions quite wrongly felt by many people when they are in need. If advice is needed on say, a burned-out cooker or a leaking roof perhaps this may be dealt with by one of the Brethren. If the advice is professional, we may be able to pay for it one way or another. Almoners will know members in the lodge who are able to help in practical ways when there is a need. Where money is required, a modest sum is often needed urgently. Here your Almoner's fund comes into its own, and the Province can also respond quickly when called upon. When seeking major sums or ongoing support, your first approach should be, on behalf of the person concerned, to those local authorities who have a duty to deal with the relevant circumstances. If further help is required, a request should be made
for Provincial assistance. Application forms or advice may be obtained by letter from the Derby office; or Tel: 01332 769702. Contact the Provincial Almoner: Or contact the Charity Secretary: Home Tel: 01298 812801 Mobile Tel: 07870 903589 E-mail: graham@gmsbase.fsnet.co.uk The completion and prompt return of an application will not only enable a quick start to proceedings, it may also trigger further action towards other Masonic Charities. It is neither expected nor required that Almoners should be expert in the detailed knowledge of Charities, although a background appreciation is obviously very useful. |
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