This belief came to life through the remarkable efforts of St George's Lodge No. 2506 EC, whose 2025–2026 Administration successfully delivered a major water rehabilitation project at Kissy Mental Hospital in Freetown.

Driven by compassion, strategic planning, and the generosity of Brethren across three continents, the project has significantly improved access to clean and reliable water for one of Sierra Leone's most important mental health institutions.

From Vision to Reality

Recognizing the challenges faced by Kissy Mental Hospital in maintaining a dependable water supply, the Lodge embarked on an ambitious charity initiative designed to create a lasting solution.

The project was originally planned in three phases, each addressing a different aspect of water sustainability.

The first phase focused on increasing the hospital's water storage capacity. Five 10,000-litre water tanks, complete with reinforced concrete bases, were installed at key locations across the hospital, including the Men's Ward, Women's Ward, Kitchen, Laundry, and Administration Building.

The second phase introduced a rainwater harvesting system, allowing rainfall from the roofs of hospital buildings to be channelled directly into the newly installed tanks through an extensive network of gutters and piping. This environmentally friendly solution now enables the hospital to capture and store thousands of litres of rainwater during the rainy season.

A third phase, which proposed drilling a borehole to provide water during the dry season, was carefully planned and costed. However, after reviewing the significant financial investment required, the Lodge made the strategic decision to focus available resources on successfully completing the first two phases.

Strategic Planning and Strong Partnerships

Behind every successful project lies careful planning and teamwork.

The charity initiative was led by WBro. Chyppee Palmer, Charity Steward, and WBro. Ralph Taylor-Smith, Worshipful Master, who worked tirelessly alongside fellow Lodge officers to develop a practical and achievable implementation plan.

Technical expertise was provided by Current Craft Plumbing & Electrical Services Ltd, under the leadership of Mr. Kelfala Marah, whose experienced team ensured the project was delivered to a high professional standard.

The management team of Kissy Mental Hospital, led by Dr. Elizabeth Allieu, together with Dr. Haja Habbiba and Mr. H.S. Amara Gbondo, provided invaluable support throughout the implementation process, ensuring the work met the hospital's operational needs.

Charity Without Borders

One of the most inspiring aspects of this initiative was the international spirit of Masonic brotherhood that made it possible.

Funding was secured through charitable donations from Brethren in Sierra Leone, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.

In Sierra Leone, fundraising formed part of the Lodge's Duke of Connaught Lecture and Charity Dinner held in December 2025. The event featured an insightful lecture by WBro. Dr. Robert Hammond of Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076 (UGLE), followed by a charity fundraising drive that received tremendous support from Brethren and guests in attendance.

Additional contributions came from Freemasons across the United Kingdom through the efforts of WBro. Dr. Robert Hammond and MWBro. Zac Smith, while Brethren of St George's Lodge living in the United States, together with members of Sojourner Kilwinning Lodge No. 1798, Grand Lodge of Washington, D.C., mobilised generous support from American Masons.

Together, these collective efforts fully funded the completion of the project's first two phases.

Delivering Lasting Impact

Implementation of the project took place in two stages.

Phase One was completed between October and December 2025, while Phase Two was successfully delivered between May and July 2026.

Today, the improved water storage and rainwater harvesting systems provide a more dependable water supply for patients, healthcare workers, and hospital operations—an investment that will continue to benefit the institution for many years.

Freemasonry in Action

Charity remains one of the defining principles of Freemasonry, and projects such as this demonstrate the profound impact that can be achieved when Brethren unite behind a common purpose.

The successful completion of the Kissy Mental Hospital Water System Rehabilitation Project is more than a construction achievement; it is a symbol of compassion, collaboration, and service to humanity.

St George's Lodge No. 2506 EC has left a lasting legacy, one measured not only in litres of water stored, but in improved living conditions, enhanced healthcare support, and renewed hope for the community it serves.

As Freemasons, we are reminded that our greatest monuments are not built of stone, but through acts of kindness that improve the lives of others. This project stands proudly as one such monument.