The Masonic Charitable Foundation of The Grand Lodge of Maine

Youth activities: our bikes for books program is The largest under this youth activities category. The program is intended to be executed with a school's reading initiative to support local schools. Lodges are going into The community and working with schools and libraries to propose a community participation in The program. This includes partnerships with schools, libraries and community businesses, engaging The community in raising funds, with a shared goal to see free bikes and helmets get into The hands of worthy children who have earned a reward for their efforts. This past year we saw roughly 1,660+ bikes given away, a small increase over last years' levels now that schools are fully open. Administrators, children, parents, and Lodge members all know this program works and benefits their communities. In addition to The bikes for books program, educational scholarships were given to approximately 36 students. Bikes for books and other youth activities grants were supported including grants to outside organizations, such as special olympics, Maine dyslexia centers of bangor and portland, big brothers big sisters of Maine and various project graduations.

Grants to other organizations.

Community programs include relief to masons and their families in distress and generally paid to Masonic lodges upon approved applications and support of other community volunteer projects. Approximately 126 families or individuals received benefits.