Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Masonic Foundation of Nova Scotia

The Masonic Foundation of Nova Scotia is a registered public charity, founded in 1969, that channels the charitable efforts of Freemasons toward individuals and organizations throughout Nova Scotia. Operating independently from the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, it manages an investment portfolio built from Masonic contributions and uses the returns to deliver multiple forms of financial assistance. Its core activities span benevolence for Masons and their families, education support through bursaries, and community-based grants delivered in partnership with local Lodges and Districts.

The Foundation’s Masonic Benevolence Program provides confidential grants to Master Masons in good standing and their immediate families, as well as widows of deceased members. Funding can cover personal medical and living expenses such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, urgent utility bills, travel for treatment, mobility aids, home accessibility renovations and limited household help. Two streams — the Individual Program and the Assisted Home Program — use common application forms, with requests reviewed by the Benevolence Committee, which can approve urgent support quickly when needed.

Its Bursary Program targets graduating Nova Scotia high school students pursuing studies at public universities or community colleges in the Atlantic provinces. Students apply through a local Lodge, and selections are based on academic standing, community involvement and financial need. Each bursary is co-funded: Lodges contribute one third and the Foundation covers two thirds, up to a maximum of $1,500 per student. In some cases, institutions such as Saint Mary’s University may match Masonic bursaries, increasing the impact of the award.

The Shared Funds Program supports community projects initiated by Lodges and Districts. When Lodges identify local needs — for example youth groups, school programs, volunteer fire departments, health initiatives, equipment for individuals, or sports and camp activities — the Foundation can provide matching funding. Lodges must contribute at least 25% of project costs, while the Foundation may cover up to 75%, capped per Lodge and subject to an annual application deadline and budget limits.

At a broader scale, the Administrative Funds Program finances large regional or province-wide charitable initiatives. It targets registered charities in Nova Scotia that offer essential services, such as medical equipment for hospitals, maintenance of youth camps, school mentoring projects, hospice programs, and long-term sponsorships like learning centres for children. Applications are sponsored by Master Masons, Lodges or Districts and are decided annually by the Foundation’s Board.

The Foundation is governed by elected and appointed members who report annually to the wider Masonic community. It defines guidelines and application processes for each program, oversees compliance, and aims for transparency in charitable disbursements. Local Lodges act as the front line in identifying needs and sponsoring applicants, while the Foundation provides centralized funding, program administration and long-term financial planning. Together, they form a province-wide network that supports individuals in distress, advances education and strengthens community organizations across Nova Scotia.