The Freemasons of the Monash Gully District, together with the Freemasons Foundation Victoria, have proudly funded the Interchange Outer East Sibling Program since 2009.
The partnership began when Freemason RWBro Keith Thornton arranged an ongoing line of support with then Interchange chief executive officer, Fred Brumhead.
The Sibling Program provides activities and camps that bring together disadvantaged siblings of children with special needs.
Funding supports travel to venues, activity materials, meals, and essential equipment. Through participation in the program, children develop greater self-confidence, improve their academic outcomes, and build social skills that enable them to contribute positively to their families and the wider community. The program is fully funded by Freemasons.
This year, Freemasons presented a cheque for $55,240 as part of a renewed three-year commitment to fund the program’s budget.
This latest contribution brings total funding over the past 17 years to $559,580. Funds are raised annually by local Freemasons through a variety of initiatives, including the annual Monash Gully Masters Gala Night.
The cheque presentation was well attended by parents, Interchange Outer East staff and volunteers, Freemasons Foundation Victoria representatives, and members of the Monash Gully District. Speakers at the event included Jacinta Benne (Family Support Programs Coordinator), RWBro Lionel May (Monash Gully District Coordinator), Sandra Jacobs (chief executive officer, Freemasons Foundation Victoria), and RWBro Miles King (Deputy Grand Master).
To learn more about Local Freemasons, please visit: freemasons-monashgully.net.au
