As the new academic year begins, St Anthony Lodge No. 4686EC on Montserrat, under the District Grand Lodge of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, has once again affirmed its commitment to charity and community support. On September 3rd, the Lodge presented a cheque for $4,000.00 to the Deputy Director of Social Services, Ms. Sharese Allen, in support of the Back to School Children Assistance Programme.
Charity is not an act of publicity but a reflection of the Lodges’ values as a fraternal organization. St. Anthony Lodge is a registered Friendly Society, and a Non-Profit Organization serving Montserrat. Every year, each member of the Lodge dedicate themselves to raising funds for this cause, ensuring that children in need receive the support required to begin their school year with dignity and hope.
In presenting the cheque, the Presiding Master, Mr. Kenneth Patrick Silcott, profoundly stated,
“this donation is one of the substantial amounts given to this cause, and this is because of personal commitments by members of the Lodge and supporters. There are other initiatives that we support, as charity continues to be one of the foundations of our organization and I will reiterate that we, as members, do so from our hearts and not for publicity. Over the years, when we make this presentation, we would highlight our commitment to do all that we can to promote and encourage support from other interested persons. This has brought some success this year, and a great portion of what we are handing over today came directly from members and supporters overseas within the last few days, and for this we are thankful. Let us continue to do all that we can to support those in need in our community, especially our children.”
Receiving the cheque was Deputy Director, Miss Sharese Allen. In conveying appreciation on behalf of the Department of Social Services, Miss Allen who is acting on behalf of the Director of Social Services said,
“she would like to acknowledge the increase in the donation, the continued efforts and commitment of the St Anthony Lodge to provide support for children in need going back to school. She added that the donations will support the educational needs of children, noting that investment in their education is a sustainable investment in their future. She further commented that the Department looks forward to receiving these contributions each year, particularly during the back-to-school period. She noted that the Department has an established process to quickly identify children returning to school who would benefit most from the support. She concluded by expressing profound thanks on behalf of the Director Mrs. Teresena Fergus.”
Also witnessing the presentation by Mr. Kenneth Patrick Silcott, were members Peter W.A. White OBE, Kendall W. Lee, Jermaine J. Wade, Edward W. Andrew and Clyde A. Rogers.
Constituted in July 1925 under the United Grand Lodge of England, St Anthony Lodge No. 4684EC remain guided by the principle that true charity flows quietly from the heart, living out the values of compassion, fraternity, and service to community. This annual support for children returning to school is to ensure that they begin the school year equipped and encouraged.