Masonic Assistance for June's Washington State Fires

Photo: The Sunday Guardian website 6/18/2026

by Christopher Hodapp

Back in June, wildfires in the Spokane area devastated areas in Eastern Washington state. 

To my knowledge, the Grand Lodge of Washington has not requested a Masonic Service Association Disaster Appeal. Instead, they are directly requesting donations via their own Washington Masonic Services website. 

On August 2nd, the Grand Lodge of Washington posted the following appeal for donations to help Masons who lost everything in those fires:

As we are sure you have heard, here in Eastern Washington we are experiencing significant tragedy from wildfires as they devastate the lives of countless residents in the area just Spokane Complex Fires. Businesses, citizens, and members of our Masonic Family have lost everything.

During these challenging times, let us come together as a united and resilient Masonic community. We stand in solidarity with our Brothersand their loved ones who may be grappling with loss, displacement, or uncertainty. In the true spirit of Freemasonry, let us extend our hands and hearts to offer support wherever it is needed. While material possessions can be rebuilt, the emotional wounds caused by such events can linger. Together, we can be beacons of light for each other, providing comfort, compassion, and assistance as we are able.

We must continue to live by our Masonic values, supporting one another with unwavering strength and compassion. In unity, we will overcome this trial and emerge even stronger, for that is the essence of our Brotherhood. “These generous principles extend further, for every human being has a claim upon your kind offices.” As the dedicated charitable arm of our Grand Lodge, Washington Masonic Services (WAMS) has a disaster relief fund to support those impacted by the Spokane Complex Fires:

(https://masonscare.givecloud.co/product/779AB1C/spokane-complex-fires).

Or For more information contact Edward Woods at edward@masonscare.org or (253) 267 8210

Our WAMS case managers are also seeking to contact Masons in the area to offer their assistance.

Remember the promise you made as an Entered Apprentice Mason, and please contribute as much as necessity requires, and your ability permits.

MSA Disaster Relief Appeal: Venezuela Earthquake

by Christopher Hodapp

NOTE: A glitch that was temporarily preventing online credit card donations has been fixed and the site is working properly.

The following urgent disaster appeal was sent out today by Mark Tabbert, Administrator of the Masonic Service Association of North America:

Photo: UPI

Venezuela Earthquake Disaster Relief Appeal

On 24 June 2026 two large earthquakes struck northwestern and central Venezuela, both centered in San Felipe, Yaracur. Currently hundreds of thousands are homeless, more than 5,000 were killed at least 16,500 are injured, and tens of thousands remain missing.

As of 17 July, at least five brother Masons with 300 relatives of brothers were also killed. Thousands more have lost their homes, their livelihoods, their worldly possessions. Lastly, the Grand Lodge Temple in Caracas, built in 1873, was severely damaged.

As Brothers of the Craft, let us remember that adversity only strengthens our international bonds.

Let us also use this moment to reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of being prepared, not just physically, but also in terms of the support systems we offer to one another.

José Gregorio Sardelli Bravo Grand Master Grand Lodge of the Republic of Venezuela has requested the Masonic Service Association of North America (MSA) to issue this Disaster Relief Appeal. The MSANA Board of Commissioners has endorsed this request.

If you choose to give to this appeal please forward any donations you feel appropriate to help our devastated Brothers and their families in this stricken grand jurisdiction to MSANA.

Please make checks payable to MSA Disaster Relief Appeal and mail to:

Masonic Service Association
813 1st Avenue SE, Suite 357
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402

ONLINE DONATIONS : https://msana.com/current-appeals/

When remitting by check, please clearly mark that you wish the funds to go to the Venezuela Earthquake Relief Appeal.

Sincerely, 

Mark A. Tabbert, PM

Administrator

Masonic Service Association of North America 

The 1873 Grand Lodge building in Caracas, Venezuela before the earthquake

Main temple in the Grand Lodge building in Caracas, Venezuela

The Masonic Service Association is usually the best and most effective way to provide financial assistance to Masons in disaster-stricken areas. 

If you are new to the fraternity or have never heard of the MSANA, it is a legitimate 501(c)(3) charitable organization. That is important to remember, especially if you, your company, or foundation are making a large donation and are in need of a tax deduction in return. The charitable arm of the Masonic Service Association was specifically established for the purpose of raising tax deductible donations, and to effectively distribute and account for the funds provided to Masons who receive assistance. Your entire donation will be sent to the affected jurisdiction. MSA deducts nothing for administrative expenses or expenses of any kind. Meaning if you donate $100.00, all $100.00 gets to the specific grand lodge issuing the appeal.

MSANA appeals are always done at the specific request of an affected Masonic jurisdiction when a catastrophe strikes. When donating through an MSA appeal you can be sure the money is officially going directly to the jurisdiction that requested it, which may not always be the case with a GoFundMe appeal or similar services. GoFundMe donations are not by law tax deductible because the IRS has no way of knowing how the money was raised, how it was spent, what may have been promised or given in return, and no way of peering into the accounting of whomever set it up. The IRS has very strict rules about tax deductible charities, and GoFundMe-type services don't even attempt to comply. And even if a legitimate lodge or grand lodge sets up such an appeal through GoFundMe, they can't issue a legit 501(c)(3) deduction to the donors unless they have their own charitable foundation or corporation that already does comply with the IRS. 

Grand Lodge of Texas Issues Disaster Relief Message for Central Texas Floods

Photo: BatesvilleTribune.com

by Christopher Hodapp

The scope of the death and destruction from the horrific floods in Texas over the weekend continues to grow as recovery and relief efforts increase in the region. In the wake of this disaster, Grand Master Rayborn Reader of the Grand Lodge of Texas AF&AM has issued the following appeal for donations on social media:

Brethren, Family and Friends,

In the wake of the devastating floods that have struck Central Texas, our hearts are heavy with sorrow. Lives have been lost, homes destroyed, and entire communities upended. The loss of young children, families, and neighbors has touched us all deeply. 

To those grieving, know that you are not alone. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Masonic family are with you. We mourn with you, and we stand ready to help. 

As Masons, we are called to be men of compassion, action, and hope. Now is the time to lift our hands to help, open our hearts to give, and stand together as Brothers, united by faith, fraternity, and charity.

I encourage all who are able to contribute to the ongoing relief efforts. I ask all Texas Masons and those who support our work to stand together in aid of our fellow Texans.

 To support relief efforts, donations can be made to the Texas Masonic Charities Foundation:

Online: https://txmcf.org/donate Or go to www.txmcf.org

 Checks may be mailed to:

Texas Masonic Charities Foundation

P.O. Box 2156

Waco, TX 76703

Let us demonstrate that the Masonic spirit of Brotherly Love and Relief is not just words—it is action. May the Great Architect of the universe watch over us all, and may He bring comfort and strength to those in need.

Fraternally,
Raborn Reader Jr.
Grand Master 2025
Grand Lodge of Texas, A.F. & A.M.

Note that, as of this time, this is the only officially-operated relief charity of the Grand Lodge of Texas – they have NOT requested a disaster relief appeal through the Masonic Service Association. The Texas Masonic Charities Foundation is a 501c3 organization, and, like the MSA, donations to them are tax deductible.

California Masonic Homes Offers Aid and Assistance to Masons Affected By SoCal Wildfires

(Reuters)

by Christopher Hodapp

THIS STORY HAS BEEN UPDATED TO INCLUDE AN OFFICIAL MSA DISASTER APPEAL

In the wake of the massive devastation from the Southern California wildfires over the last few weeks, the Grand Lodge of California's Masonic Homes website has posted the following message offering assistance to Freemasons and their loved ones:

The wildfires that have spread throughout Northern and Southern California this year have been the most destructive in our state's history. They have caused billions of dollars in damage and displaced hundreds of thousands of people.

If you or a brother or sweetheart you know has been affected, the Masonic Homes can help. Please call Masonic Assistance at (888) 466-3642 for help accessing relief resources. If you call on behalf of another brother or widow, it is recommended that they are present for the call to expedite relief.

Available resources include:

Direct relief: Housing, food, clothing, and transportation
Counseling for grief and emotional distress
Relocation assistance
Referrals to organizations providing financial guidance, including assistance with mortgage payments and insurance matters
Information about and referrals to agencies providing local support

Even if your need is not included in the list above, assistance may be available. Please call Masonic Assistance to learn more about how our compassionate staff can support you and your loved ones.

Relief provided through the Masonic Homes of California is made possible by the generosity of brothers and friends statewide. CLICK HERE to make a gift to support the Masonic Homes’ mission of relief.

Note: If you are donating from out of state, ignore the drop-down menus asking for your lodge name, etc.  When asked where to direct your donation, choose the 'Distressed Worthy Brother Relief Fund.'

UPDATE FEBRUARY 8. 2024: 

Since this story was first posted, California Grand Master Arthur Salazar Jr. has also requested the Masonic Service Association of North America to issue an official Disaster Appeal over the California fires. 

From the MSANA website:

California Wildfires Relief Appeal

Grand Master Arthur L. Salazar Jr of California has requested the Masonic Service Association of North America (MSA) to issue this Disaster Relief Appeal.

Earlier this month, large parts of Los Angeles County were ravaged by several horrific fires which took several lives, destroyed entire communities, and flattened thousands of structures. While we are not aware of any of member lives that were lost, we have received daily requests from members who have lost their homes, their livelihoods, their worldly possessions. Now they need your assistance.

Sincerely and Fraternally,
Craig L. Davis, PGM
Administrator, MSANA

To Donate by Mail:

Please make checks payable to MSA Disaster Relief Appeal.
Please clearly mark the appeal that you wish the funds to go to and send to:

Masonic Service Association, 813 1st Ave SE, Suite 357, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402

To Donate by credit card online, CLICK HERE  Be sure to use the drop-down box to direct it to the California Wild Fires

MSA is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and donations made through them are tax deductible.

MSA Issues Disaster Relief Appeal for Maui Fires

(Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images)

by Christopher Hodapp

The Masonic Service Association of North America has officially issued a Disaster Relief Appeal for the wildfire devastation on the Hawaiian island of Maui, on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Hawaii:

---

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 11, 2023

Hawaii Wild Fire Disaster Relief Appeal

"Last night, our beloved island of Maui was touched by the destructive forces of fires that swept through the community, leaving devastation in their wake. As Brothers of the Craft, let us remember that adversity only strengthens our bonds. Let us also use this moment to reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of being prepared, not just physically, but also in terms of the support systems we offer to one another."

Grand Master Dustin T. Verity has requested the Masonic Service Association of North America (MSA) to issue this Disaster Relief Appeal.

Please forward any donations you feel appropriate to help our devastated Brothers and their families in this stricken jurisdiction to MSA.

Please make checks payable to MSA Disaster Relief Appeal and send to:

Masonic Service Association

813 1st Avenue SE, Suite 357

Cedar Rapids, IA 52402

When remitting by check, please clearly mark that you wish the funds to go to the (Maui Wild Fires, Hawaii Disaster Relief Appeal.)

Click Here To Donate Online

Sincerely and Fraternally,

Craig L. Davis, P.G.M.

Administrator

MSANA

msaoffice@msana.com

Administrative Office Phone: (319) 206-5411

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Remember that all donations made to the MSA are tax deductible, and they charge no service fees of any kind to Grand Lodges making the appeal—the amount you donate is what they receive.

In addition, the Masonic Charities of the Grand Lodge of Hawaii has its own GoFundMe page for making donations. And an Amazon list has been created for those wishing to donate specific supplies to the cause.

The official Masonic Charities of Hawaii GoFundMe page is at:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/masonic-charities-of-hawaii-maui-wildfire-relief

The Masonic Charities of Hawaii  Amazon Wish List is at:

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1GSO8QHRX5L19

---

(Photo: AP)

Latest news is that the death toll has risen to over 100 people, with hundreds still missing. Estimates are that more than 2,500 homes and businesses have been destroyed by the fires last week that were stoked by a combination of the annual summer drought and 80+ mph winds from Hurricane Dora, which passed 500 miles south of the islands. Thousands of people from the western side of Maui remain displaced, and rebuilding will take years to accomplish.

I have not seen specific information about Masons and lodges in the affected areas: please forward any information available to me at hodapp@aol.com

See previous post for more details:

DISASTER: Hawaii Grand Master Appeals For Donations in Maui Devastation

DISASTER: Hawaii Grand Master Appeals For Donations in Maui Devastation

(AP photo)

by Christopher Hodapp

NOTE: This story has been updated on Monday, August 14, 2023, 3:30PM

Wildfires fed by hurricane winds have destroyed a substantial portion of the Hawaiian island of Maui this week. Fires broke out three days ago, partially the result of the annual summer drought combined with high winds from Hurricane Dora, which passed 500 miles south of the island chain. 

As of Friday morning, 55 are reported dead, 12,000 have been forced to evacuate, and more than a thousand people are still unaccounted for. As the fires raced towards the coast, many desperate people were driven to jump into the ocean to escape the onrushing flames. 

Electricity and cell service has been cut off for much of the island, and thousands of homes, businesses, cars and infrastructure are completely burned to the ground in and around the historic town of Lahaina — former capital of the Hawaiian kingdom — at the western end of the island. Currently, six fires remain uncontained – five are in the center of the island.

The White House has officially declared the situation a federal emergency.

Today, MW Dustin T. Verity, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Hawaii F&AM, has issued a statement concerning the Maui fire devastation (click image below to enlarge).

It reads, in part:

I hope this message finds you well, though I understand that recent events have left us all with heavy hearts. Last night, our beloved island of Maui was touched by the destructive force of fires that swept through our community, leaving devastation in their wake. It is with a profound sense of sadness that I reach out to each of you today.

During these challenging times, let us come together as a united and resilient Masonic family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the individuals and families affected by this tragedy. We stand in solidarity with our Brothers and their loved ones who may be grappling with loss, displacement, or uncertainty.

In the true spirit of Freemasonry, let us extend our hands and hearts to offer our support wherever it is needed. While material possessions can be rebuilt, the emotional wounds caused by such events can linger. Let us be beacons of light for our community, providing comfort, compassion, and assistance as we can.

As Brothers of the Craft, let us remember that adversity only strengthens our bonds. Let us also use this moment to reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of being prepared, not just physically, but also in terms of the support systems we offer to one another.

I encourage you to reach out to our Brothers in Maui to express your condolences, offer assistance, or simply let them know that they are not alone in this challenging time. Our Lodge has always been a place of solace and unity, and now more than ever, we have the opportunity to exemplify those principles. Assistance may be provided through Masonic Charities of Hawaii, a 501(c)3 charitable organization, by contacting Very Worshipful Brothers David Gomes, davidgomes@hawaii.rr.com, or Anthony Escasa, anthony.j.escasa@gmail.com.

At this time, I haven't seen any updates concerning specific Masonic lodges or Masons in the devastated areas, although I do have a life-long friend there who was evacuated from her home ahead of the approaching fires. She hasn't been permitted to return just to inspect damage. But tragically, she has been told that looters have already been at work.

The Grand Lodge of Hawaii website does have a link to make donations, but at the time of this writing, the popup window with its 'donate' button doesn't seem to connect to anything — keep re-checking the site, as it has been reported to their webmaster. The official Masonic Charities of Hawaii GoFundMe page is at:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/masonic-charities-of-hawaii-maui-wildfire-relief

In addition, an Amazon Wish List is evolving, if you prefer to donate supplies to relief efforts:

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1GSO8QHRX5L19

Masonic Charities of Hawaii is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

Also at this time, there has been no announcement of an official Masonic Service Association Disaster Appeal. This post will be updated if that changes.

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UPDATE: MONDAY, AUGUST 14, 2023, 3:30PM

Latest news is that the death toll has risen to over 100 people, with hundreds still missing. Estimates are that more than 2,500 homes and businesses have been destroyed by the fires last week that were stoked by a combination of the annual summer drought and 80+ mph winds from Hurricane Dora, which passed 500 miles south of the islands. Thousands of people from the western side of Maui remain displaced, and rebuilding will take years to accomplish.

I have not seen specific information about Masons and lodges in the affected areas: please forward any information available to me at hodapp@aol.com

The Masonic Service Association of North America officially opened a Disaster Relief Appeal today on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Hawaii. Click below for that information and to donate through MSA:

MSA Issues Disaster Relief Appeal for Maui Fires

MSA Appeal For Relief – Connecticut – Vermont - Virginia - New York

The Masonic Service Association of North America has issued an appeal for relief for the states of Connecticut, Vermont, Virginia and New York.

Hurricane "Irene" caused devastating damage, both along the East coast and further inland.

While extensive damage was done in several states this appeal is on behalf of the Grand Lodges of Connecticut, Vermont, Virginia and New York. Hurricane "Irene" caused damage in New York who then suffered even more damage from tropical storm "Lee."

When remitting funds to the MSA, in response to this appeal, please mark clearly on your check how you wish the funds designated. If no designation is made the funds will be divided equally between Connecticut, Vermont and Virginia and New York.

Please make checks payable to the MSA Disaster Relief Fund and send to:

8120 Fenton Street, Ste. 203,
Silver Spring, MD 20910-4785.

Thank you very much for your help!

Vermont: Hurricane Relief

Brethren, the state of Vermont has been ravaged by the worst natural disaster in at least the last 100 years of its history. Hundreds of Masons and many lodges have been affected by Hurricane Irene. An relief effort is now underway via Grand Lodge of Vermont F&AM and the other Masonic bodies in the state. The District Deputy Grand Masters will coordinate local efforts. If you have time or materials to donate, please contact the Grand Lodge through its website here.

H/T to Dana Scofield