How BeMBA is Supporting Local Children with Down Syndrome, Community is at the heart of everything we do.

The Berkshire Mark Benevolent Association (BeMBA) is proud to share a recent milestone in our mission to provide rapid, impactful relief to those in need.

In late May, we were approached by Chattertots, a small charity providing life-changing early intervention for children with Downs Syndrome in Berkshire. They are working hard towards a £50k annual fundraising goal, and BeMBA stepped in to help with a £3k donation.

The first photo was on 26th June at Woodley Baptist Church, The Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Mark Master Masons – Berkshire VW Bro Jim Payen, W Bro Graham Parker, BeMBA Secretary and W Bro Bob Watson, the Provincial Almoner, presenting a cheque for £3,000 to Clair McIntosh, the Charity Manager, together with five of the children and parents that will benefit. We are overjoyed to announce that BeMBA’s donation will almost totally fund the speech therapy program for pre-school children at the Woodley Baptist Church playgroup for the next 6 months

Early Intervention: Speech and language are the biggest hurdles for children with Down syndrome.

Life Skills: Early therapy helps these children master essential communication skills from the very beginning.

Rapid Action: Because BeMBA operates independently, our committee could approve the grant within 3 days of the request.

Chattertots started in 2015 with just 3 families. By 2021, they grew to support over 30 families, offering evidence-proven methods to give children the best possible start in life. Their vital services include: Weekly speech & language therapy for pre-schoolers.

Educational consultant visits to local schools to share specialised teaching strategies. Independent reporting to assist families with the EHCP process.

How You Can Support Chattertots Mission

BeMBA’s core objective is to make grants for the relief of Mark Master Masons, Royal Ark Mariner members, their immediate families, and other worthy local causes.

As a registered charity, we can receive gift-aided donations, allowing us to reclaim tax from the government and make your generosity go even further.

Together, we are nurturing potential, empowering families, and bringing joy to our community