Orsett Masonic Hall launches 'Orsett Masonic Community Fund'

The launching of the Orsett Masonic Community Fund to support local causes and strengthen community collaboration in Thurrock

In a forward-thinking move to expand its charitable impact, Orsett Masonic Hall is proud to announce the creation of the ‘Orsett Masonic Community Fund’ (OMCF), a new initiative designed to support local causes, champion grassroots projects, and strengthen community partnerships across Thurrock.

The fund aims to enhance existing support networks, focusing on areas where additional help is most needed, while encouraging collaboration, shared learning, and public engagement through inclusive, community-driven events.

“This isn’t about repeating what others are doing; it’s about building on a shared purpose,” said Richard Bowyer, Chairman of Orsett Masonic Hall. “By working alongside other local initiatives, we’re extending the hand of Freemasonry further into the community, offering support where it counts most.”

Thurrock remains a borough of contrast, home to innovation and development, yet also burdened by significant levels of deprivation, affecting children, older adults, and those facing social and health inequalities.

According to local data, over 25% of children in Thurrock are growing up in poverty. Mental health issues and food insecurity are rising among young people, while elderly residents in isolated communities often face a lack of accessible support.

The launch of the fund reflects Orsett Masonic Hall’s ongoing commitment to community collaboration. While inspired by the spirit of other successful local initiatives, such as the Cross Keys Community Fund, which has raised more than £35,000 and supported almost 100 local initiatives in under two years, this new venture has been developed with its own clear identity and aims.

“There’s already so much incredible work happening across Thurrock,” said Steve Bruyel, Chairman of the OMCF. “Our role is to complement that, not compete with it. We want to fill the gaps, lift emerging voices, and bring people together around shared values.”

The fund will focus on supporting local grassroots charities and care providers, promoting community wellbeing and inclusive engagement, connecting with youth groups, schools, and vulnerable individuals, and partnering with local authorities and fellow Masonic centres across Essex.

To mark its official launch, the OMCF will host a landmark event in July 2025, a first-of-its-kind gathering that highlights Freemasonry’s evolving and inclusive role within society.

In a historic collaboration, all three Masonic Orders; the Order of Women Freemasons, the Honourable Fraternity of Ancient Freemasons, and Essex Freemasons, will come together to deliver a free public talk on ‘Domestic Abuse Awareness’, in partnership with the respected local charity Changing Pathways.

“This is more than a launch, it’s a public declaration of our values,” added David Barton, Provincial Community Lead. “It’s about standing together, opening our doors, and putting Freemasonry at the heart of the community.

We are also honoured to confirm that the Mayor of Thurrock will be attending to show support for this important initiative.”

Invitations have been extended to Thurrock Council, local schools, health services, and community leaders, with the event expected to be the first in a series of collaborative initiatives driven by Essex Masonic Centres.

Photos

Top: The contractualisation and signing meeting of the OMCF L-R Mark Gillam, Graham Larke, David Barton, Steve Bruyel, Carl Nelder

Middle: A recent collaboration of the OMCF, Cross Keys Community Fund (CKCF) and the Cricket Lodge of Essex sponsoring teams for a Cricket match – L-R Steve Bruyel, Chairman OMFC - Chris Bushell, Member CKCF - Chris Hicks, Essex Provincial Grand Charity Steward.

Bottom: The OMFC organised litter picking on the banks of the River Thames as part of the Provincial Spring Clean initiative.