The Cross Keys Masonic Centre in Essex has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to charitable work throughout the region, particularly during the Easter season. The members of the Cross Keys Community Fund (CKCF) have been actively involved in various initiatives to support vulnerable groups and bring smiles to the faces of many.
This year, the CKCF donated hundreds of Easter eggs and Easter crafts to women's refuges, special needs youth groups, and Knit and Natter groups in Thurrock and Basildon. They also made a generous contribution to the Stifford Dolphins, a local Cubs Pack, to support their exciting Spring Camp at Thriftwood Scout Campsite & Activity Centre in Brentwood, where young cubs can enjoy thrilling activities such as abseiling, archery, and axe throwing.
In collaboration with the Mayor of Thurrock, Sue Little, the CKCF purchased and donated a 47-inch TV to the Thurrock and Brentwood Mind Charity in Grays. This donation is part of a project to create a sensory garden, which will provide a relaxing space for the charity's clients to unwind and find solace.
The CKCF also worked closely with Knit and Natter groups in Fobbing and Chadwell St Mary, supplying materials to create 'Twiddle Muffs' for dementia patients in local residential homes like Willows Lodge in Tilbury and Merrie Loots Care Home in East Tilbury. These specially designed muffs feature textured ribbons, beads, and various fabrics to keep the hands of dementia patients active and engaged.
Furthermore, the Stifford Clays PPG Knitting Club received hundreds of Cadbury's Crème Eggs and wool donations from the CKCF. The club members used these materials to knit hundreds of Easter woolen gifts, which were then distributed to NHS staff at various hospitals, including Basildon, Royal London, Queens Hospital in Romford, and Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford, as well as many other local groups and residential homes.
Dave Barton, an Essex Freemason and chairman of the Cross Keys Community Fund, expressed his enthusiasm for involving people in charitable activities during Easter, stating, "With spring in full bloom, everyone feels energised to contribute, and the CKCF takes pride in supporting Viv (Stifford Clays Knitting Club), who works tirelessly for the local community. We love to support all the community groups and charities that we work with, as it encompasses four important values that help define Freemasons: Integrity, Friendship, Respect and Service."
The efforts of the Essex Freemasons and the Cross Keys Community Fund have not only brought joy to countless individuals during the Easter season but have also showcased the importance of community support and the positive impact that can be made when people come together for a common cause.
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