Each year, the Freemasons of Lunenburg-Queens District choose a local, charitable organization to support. The District is comprised of eight lodges, located in Bridgewater, Lunenburg, Chester, New Ross, New Germany, Caledonia, Milton and Liverpool. The Masonic Foundation of Nova Scotia is the philanthropic arm of Freemasonry. Through the Shared Funding Program, the Foundation matches the funds raised by the District Lodges on a ratio of 3:1.
This year’s District Project is in support of the South Shore Chapter of Autism Nova Scotia. Through various programs, the Chapter has been able to effect tremendous positive change in the lives of families living with autism in Lunenburg and Queens Counties. The need for these programs is real and pressing. At present, there are approximately 200 children on the autism spectrum in our South Shore schools, not counting the pre-school-aged children set to enter the school system, or the many young adults who have already left it.
“Oh My Gosh! Thank you! Thank you!” were the first words spoken by a joyous Debbie England, Treasurer of the South Shore Chapter of Autism Nova Scotia, when she read aloud a cheque for $11,060 issued by the Masonic Foundation of Nova Scotia. The cheque was presented by George Broome, District Deputy Grand Master for Lunenburg-Queens, and Michael Lutes, Chairman of the Masonic Foundation.
Following the presentation, the board members individually thanked the Masons who had gathered to participate and, in appreciation, issued the following statement: “This is such an exciting day for our families with children, youth and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This generous donation will allow the South Shore Chapter of Autism Nova Scotia the opportunity to offer a greater variety of programs for children, youth and adults with ASD living in Lunenburg and Queens Counties. It will also allow us to branch out our programs into more rural communities. We see the benefits of programs such as yoga, swimming and PEERS which provide a long lasting positive impact for all who participate. We can gain a greater awareness of autism in our communities through these valuable programs and the opportunities they provide for families. On behalf of South Shore Chapter of Autism Nova Scotia, we would like to extend our heart-felt thanks to all the Freemasons in Lunenburg-Queens.”