SUPPORT During
Unexpected
Hardship
Home > In Your Community > Distressed Worthy Brother Fund
The Distressed Worthy Brother Fund (DWBF) is designed to support Masons and their families who are facing unexpected economic hardship due to a personal crisis, such as unexpected job loss or housing insecurity.
DWBF provides short-term assistance to help members navigate temporary crises, improve their current circumstances, and regain stability and financial independence whenever possible. Additionally, Care Management support is aimed at assisting families in developing a plan for self-sufficiency.
Services Offered
If you are facing a financial crisis, we can help you navigate your options through:
- Information and Referral: Connecting members with local resources and public benefits (such as CalFresh or Medi-Cal).
- Care Management: A dedicated Care Manager works with you to create a budget and a personalized plan to reduce expenses, search for employment, and restore self-sufficiency.
- Emergency Financial Support: For those with a demonstrated need and a safe care plan in place, the program offers limited, short-term financial assistance (ranging from 1–3 months) to cover emergency needs. This may include food, prescriptions, utilities, rent/mortgage, or vehicle expenses.
The Distressed Worthy Brother Fund is available to:
- California Masons: All Entered Apprentices, Fellowcrafts, and Master Masons.
- Masons from Other Jurisdictions: Masons currently residing in California who belong to lodges from another jurisdiction.
- Family Members: Spouses, surviving spouses, and dependent minor children of eligible Masons.
To qualify for financial assistance, the members should be in good standing (or willing to be restored to good standing) and should be willing to commit to the work required in the care management plan.
Getting Started with DWBF
Could you or someone you know use our support?
Learn more about getting started with Masonic Assistance to help you understand what information will be required during your initial call and what to expect.
To request assistance from DWBF, call (888) 466-3642 or complete our request for information form.
Get answers to frequently asked questions about DWBF
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