On Thursday, 24th November, WBro Keith Alcock, representing White River Lodge and who is also the Provincial Grand Charity Steward of Valencia, visited El Preventorio children’s home in Gandia to donate gifts collected largely from the Brethren of White River Lodge. The gifts consisted of no fewer than eight bin liners crammed with goodies and even more bags and boxes filled with toys and sweets.
The larger bags were filled with clothes, shoes, games and toys for the children to help celebrate Christmas. Some were donated by Mason’s friends in the UK and brought back especially for the children. We were accompanied, as always, by Ms Silvia Barnish who regularly gives up her free time to help both the children and us. She acts as our liaison and translator and without her our visits would be much more difficult.
As many of the shoes and some of the toys were brand new, these were separated to be gift wrapped and put towards the gifts each child would receive for Christmas. The rest would be donated to children as and when needed. We were also greeted by old friend Sr Jorge Luengo, one of the many carers who help to run the home.
He was a little tired this trip as he had just completed his first Valencia marathon at the weekend in a very creditable time of 3Hr37. Well done Jorge! As always the staff were incredibly grateful to receive these gifts and warmly thanked the Brothers of White River Lodge and indeed all the Brethren of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia for their long and continuing support.
Sadly, as is always the case, the home still need donations on a long term basis. They are now looking after around fifty-five children including some who are disabled. They receive no money from the state and all work is completed by volunteers and donations from the general public.
If you feel able to donate either money or gifts I can be contacted on the email address given below. Items can also be left at the offices of Bay Radio in Javea who also support this charity on a long term basis. Please think, are you are able to offer just one toy to some child who otherwise may not get one? As many children are looking forward to a new PC, IPad or other electronic goody, these children are hoping for a second hand toy costing maybe a few euros when new. Please try to help.
If you need further information about the work of El Preventorio or if you are interested in Freemasonry please contact me and I will answer all your questions.
WBro William Turney Press Officer
Provincial Grand Lodge of Valencia.
