While the primary focus of Freemasonry is on improving its members, it would be impossible to accomplish that goal without having an effect on those around them.  In that way, Freemasons are very active outside their Lodges, both in charitable endeavors and in community outreach and involvement.

The Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia has three primary charities - The Masonic Foundation of DC, St. John's Mite, and the Masonic and Eastern Star Homes Charities of Washington, DC (MESH).  These charities serve Masons, their families and the community-at-large through volunteerism and project funding.

Occasionally, the Grand Lodge, in partnership with one or more of the charities, will endeavor to temporarily focus its charitable efforts on a specific issue of concern to its membership, such as disaster relief.

To learn more about our charities or any specific funding campaigns currently underway, see below.

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The Masonic Foundation of DC

The Masonic Foundation is the charitable arm of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia.  They provide funding and support for various DC based community service projects, organizations serving the people of DC, and scholarships for DC high school graduates and those attending DC colleges and universities. The Masonic Foundation is a 501(c)3 private, fraternal non-profit organization.

St. John's Mite

St. John's Mite is a charitable fund that provides emergency short term assistance for members of our constituent Lodges who are in need.  This aid is provided anonymously and evaluated on a case-by-case basis. St. John's Mite is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt non-profit organization.

MESH DC

The Masonic and Eastern Star Homes of DC provide services and financial relief to Freemasons and members of the Order of the Eastern Star of the District of Columbia, and their spouses. They also support the charitable and community services of other organizations and people serving the people and communities of District of Columbia. MESH Charities of the District of Columbia is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt non-profit organization.