In 1994 the RMBI opened Prince Michael of Kent Court in Stratford Road, Watford, and has since run it as a Care Home for the elderly Freemasons, their wives and widows. It has been supported by the Association of Friends (the Friends) whose purpose is “to relieve and assist by all charitable means” the residents of the Court. This is done by providing extras which are not part of the basic amenities provided by the RMBI.
Working with the Management of the Court, members of the Association welcome new residents and offer all residents activities, companionship and facilities. Examples are outings to places of interest, the Spring Fayre, the Xmas Fayre and luncheon, coffee mornings, a communal television/DVD/satellite, and the annual Revue.
The members of the Friends are mostly freemasons and their wives from the Provinces of Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire and members from other Provinces and they are very welcome. It has always been the hope of the Friend’s Committee that every Brother in the two Provinces would become a Life Member. The cost is only £15 (or £25 for joint membership) which includes a lapel badge and application forms are readily available from the Court (01923 234780), most Masonic Centres in the two Provinces and the Secretary of the Association (John Cassidy 01707 322230).
The Association of Friends is a Registered Charity (No. 104078) and is financed by Life Membership subscriptions and donations from Lodges and Chapters in the two Provinces and other Provinces. Substantial donations have come from other Masonic funds such as the Benevolent Fund of the Mark Province of Hertfordshire, the Donald Forrester Trust and fundraising at functions at the Court.
Visitors to the Court are welcome but please make an appointment or attend one of the social functions which are not reserved for residents only, such as the Quiz Nights.