At TLC Essex, we often say that our teddy bears bring comfort to children during some of their most frightening and vulnerable moments—but sometimes, the impact is best expressed by those who’ve experienced it first-hand.
A huge thank you to the Brethren of Hornchurch Lodge No. 5790, who recently gave Big Ted and me a very warm welcome during our visit—and made a truly remarkable contribution to the TLC Essex Appeal.
Big Ted and I were delighted to visit Blackwater Lodge No. 1977 to present them with a TLC Essex Patron Certificate, recognising their generous £500 donation to the Appeal.
While Big Ted and the TLC Teddies were off on a mission of their own—heading north to set up for a fundraising event—I had the pleasure of making a solo visit to Edward the Confessor Lodge No. 3782 at Upminster.
Big Ted and I were recently delighted to attend a meeting of Buckhurst Hill Lodge No. 8291 at Loughton, where we received a truly warm welcome—and even warmer generosity.
One of the great joys of the TLC Essex Appeal is seeing support come from all corners of Freemasonry—even from Orders in which I’m not a member. That was exactly the case recently when I was kindly approached by Ill.Bro Paul D. Swinge (30°) of Chingford Rose Croix Chapter No. 850, part of the District of South Essex of the Ancient & Accepted Rite.
Earlier this month, two Essex Lodges—The Lodge of XV No. 9944 and The Cricket Lodge of Essex No. 10009—came together to host a fantastic Joint Ladies Festival, full of celebration, fellowship, and charitable giving.