Issue 3: Autumn/Winter 2017
Education for children and young people, Support for Freemasons and families
Alongside our main grants, we can also support the children and grandchildren of Freemasons whose exceptional talents in music, sport or the performing arts have potential to develop into a career. We can consider TalentAid applications even if family circumstances means the child would not qualify for support under our core programme.
Through TalentAid, we can assist with ongoing costs such as advanced music or drama lessons or sports coaching. We can also help to purchase one-off items like musical instruments or, as was the case with Grace, Jakob and Finnlay, sports equipment:
Funnily enough, we only got into archery after going with Dad to a beginners lesson. Dad is registered disabled and needed a hobby suited to his mobility.
“At first we went along to help him and keep him company but within six months we’d all entered local, national and British competitions and broken records every time! We did all of this with borrowed or second-hand equipment that got some funny looks from our competitors – until they saw us shoot! As time went on, we needed more resources and training to develop as archers but mum and dad just couldn’t afford it.”
Their dad, Stuart, said: “When I first heard about the MCF I didn’t think they’d be able to help as I’m not a Freemason, but my father was a Freemason which meant that my children – his grandchildren – were eligible to apply.
“Through TalentAid, the MCF has provided the equipment and coaching the children need to progress to the next level and all three have been scouted by Team GB! Aside from archery, all of them work really hard at school and are doing very well.
I truly believe archery has given my children skills to cope in school and life in general, including confidence, dedication and the ability to plan ahead – and they couldn’t have done it without the MCF.
To find out more about applying, get in touch with our Enquiries team.
0800 035 60 90
help@mcf.org.uk
talentaid@mcf.org.uk