Freemasons donate $1.45M to drought-affected Queenslanders

Freemasons across Queensland and Papua New Guinea have again rallied with Hand Heart Pocket the Charity of Freemasons Queensland to support drought-affected families and communities.

The success of their most recent Drought Disaster Relief Appeal has meant that collectively Freemasons have donated $1.45 million over the past four years.

The recent appeal saw Hand Heart Pocket donate an additional two dollars for every dollar donated by its members and Masonic Lodges - therefore tripling their impact and helping to raise $450,000 in just six weeks.

Hand Heart Pocket Chief Executive Officer Gary Mark said eftpos cards were being distributed through its delivery partners on the ground, enabling funds to be spent locally, helping to put food on the table and to pay essential bills.

“By working with The Western Drought Appeal and their associated distribution channels, the Rural Financial Counselling Service, Queensland Education and the School of Distant Education parent support group, we can ensure that funds get to those that are most in need,” Gary said.

“Around 1500 eftpos cards are currently being distributed to families in Longreach, Winton, Barcaldine, Blackall-Tambo, Barcoo, Boulia, McKinlay, Richmond, Murweh, Flinders, Bulloo, Quilpie and Paroo.”

“Rather than trucking in supplies, this method allows funds to be spent locally in support of the local business community,” he said.

Including two Masonic Lodges in Papua New Guinea, 127 Lodges throughout the state contributed to the Appeal, helping to provide a greater impact.

“By pooling our efforts we’ve been able to reach so many more drought-affected Queenslanders – to provide a hand up in their time of need. A contribution of $1.45M over four years is a remarkable effort by our membership,” Gary said.

As an independent charity founded by the Freemasons of Queensland, Hand Heart Pocket helps in areas of state-wide and local need that have limited access to other funding. We work with other charities to identify and fund initiatives that have real, life-changing potential. We also collaborate with Masonic Lodges across Queensland and help individuals in times of extreme need to get them back on their feet. We use our funds wisely to give a hand-up - not a handout - and to build potential.

To find out more about Hand Heart Pocket visit www.handheartpocket.org.au

For media requests, please contact:

Hand Heart Pocket the Charity of Freemasons Queensland

Karen Tilke, General Manager Marketing and Public Relations, on 07 3493 6009 or ktilke@handheartpocket.org.au