After nominating Glasgow’s Golden Generation as their charity for 2020/21, the Provincial Grand Lodge of Glasgow have raised £22.4k for the charity by taking part in the Virtual Kiltwalk.
Each year the Freemasons select a charity to support and Glasgow’s Golden Generation was nominated due to its fantastic work supporting older adults throughout Glasgow.
Members of the Provincial Grand Lodge were aware of the charity’s long history in the city and keen to support it throughout the year.
Covid 19 meant the charity was needed more than ever, however this had a direct impact on the lodge’s ability to fundraise. Where dinners, get togethers and various events would normally be organised, everything had to be done as safely as possible which meant social distancing.
The Provincial Grand Master of Glasgow, Andy Mushet said,
“At the beginning of our fundraising year, we had quite a conundrum on how best to raise funds for Glasgow’s Golden Generation.
“However, in addition to raffles and other prize draws throughout the year we also realised the Virtual Kiltwalk was the ideal event for us to get behind.”
Almost 60 members of the Provincial Grand Lodge took part in the Virtual Kiltwalk in April, managing to walk with their families and extended households to raise much needed funds.
In total just short of £15k was raised by the members of lodges in Glasgow which is an amazing amount for a virtual event.
This was topped up through the generosity of Sir Tom Hunter whose Hunter Foundation committed to add an extra 50% on to any funds raised for Scottish charities.
This means in total £22.4k was raised by Glasgow masons, all of which will be used to continue GGG’s work in the city.
Fundraising Manager, Lesley Giuidici said,
“We cannot thank the Provincial Grand Lodge of Glasgow enough for getting behind Kiltwalk. This is a record-breaking amount for GGG and we are overwhelmed by the generosity of both those who took part and those who donated.
“Covid has been particularly difficult for older adults in the city and the funds raised mean we can help reduce loneliness and isolation in our older population.
“Throughout the pandemic we have delivered essential items like bread, eggs and milk to older adults as well as continuing our face-to-face services like befriending and benefits advice over the phone.
“Support from the Provincial Grand Lodge of Glasgow means we can plan ahead and best target our support where it is needed most.
“Thanks to the masons and other walkers, the overall total raised through Kiltwalk was £27.5k. We were gobsmacked when we saw the total – it was more than we could have imagined!”
