Elvetham Masonic Lodge donates £1,000 to Stepping Stones DS

Stepping Stones DS, based in Fleet and supporting children and young adults with Down syndrome across the region, was presented with the cheque by Charity Steward Richard Pfleger and John Johnstone from Elvetham Masonic Lodge.

The charity supports around 160 children through education, social and physical activities, as well as wellbeing and family services.

Children Amy from Fleet and Sophia from Tadley receiving the cheque from Elvetham Charity Stewrd, Richrd Pfleger. Also in the picture is Laura Chavez, Sarah Sutton and Michelle Slater of SSDS and John Johnstone. (Image: Elvetham Masonic Lodge)

Sarah Sutton, community fundraising and projects officer at Stepping Stones DS, said: "We are so grateful for the donation of £1,000 from Elvetham Masonic Lodge.

"This amount of money could cover the cost of one year of school outreach for one of our children.

"Your kindness helps our outreach team promote learning, communication, independence and confidence, giving children with Down syndrome the opportunity to reach their full potential."

Elvetham Masonic Lodge moved from Hartley Wintney to the Victoria Street Masonic Centre in Basingstoke in 1993.

John Johnstone, a freemason for 56 years and resident of Fleet, nominated the charity based on his knowledge of its impact.

Richard said: "You never see Freemasons rattling collecting tins in the streets.

"Freemasons use their own money to support local good causes, and it is fortunate that Elvetham Lodge also has the interest from investments for us to donate.”