Essex Freemasons Donate £100,000 to Fund Life-Saving Community First Responder Cars
Date: 22 October 2025Three new community response cars are now on the roads across Essex, thanks to a generous £100,000 donation from the Essex Freemasons to the East of England Ambulance Service Charity.
These cars will be used by volunteer community first responders (CFRs) to reach patients faster in 999 medical emergencies, especially in rural and hard-to-reach areas. When every second counts, these cars will make sure help gets there quickly, giving the patients vital medical care and reassurance to both them and their families.
CFRs volunteer in their communities, often providing early life-saving help in emergencies before an ambulance arrives. Their contribution can be life-saving.
“Most of our CFRs use their own cars to reach those in need, so having these dedicated community response cars will not only support, equip, and provide mentoring opportunities for our wonderful volunteers, but they will also strengthen the care in the communities,” said Lorna Hayes, Head of Community Response.
The donation is part of a wider commitment by Essex Freemasons to mark their 250th anniversary in 2026, not just by celebrating their history, but by investing in the future of their communities.
“We are very pleased to be partnering with the CFR’s during our 250th Anniversary. This is one of five charities we are supporting during the year, with the objective of placing a series of legacies throughout Essex as part of our Community Engagement,” commented Paul Tarrant, Provincial Grand Master, Essex Freemasons
“This incredibly generous donation from Essex Freemasons will make a real and lasting difference to patients across our region, for which we are tremendously grateful. These cars are far more than just a vehicle; they’re lifelines in their communities. The addition of a clearly marked fleet not only enhances visibility for our Community First Responders but also helps raise vital awareness of the essential role volunteers play every day in supporting patient care,” said Kate Lott, Head of Charity.
“Over the years Essex Freemasons have supported a large number of “Blue-Light” services, and this continues that tradition. Seeing the vehicles around the County will make our members proud of the work we are doing,” added Chris Hicks, Provincial Charity Steward, Essex Freemasons
If you’d like to fund a community response car or help bring one to another area, please get in touch with the East of England Ambulance Service Charity – charity@eastamb.nhs.uk
