On Sunday, December 8th, 2024, a devastating fire broke out in the old Market Hall of Kirkby Lonsdale, severely affecting Market Street and the historic heart of the town. Tragically, one resident lost their life, and several others have been left homeless. Numerous businesses have also been significantly impacted, causing financial hardship and emotional distress.
In response, the Cumbria Community Foundation, at the request of the Kirkby Lonsdale Community Recovery Partnership, has launched an appeal to alleviate the hardship caused by the fire. The primary goal is to support individuals and families facing financial difficulties due to the fire and to aid in broader community relief and recovery efforts.
The appeal focuses on:
- Assisting those who have lost their homes and possessions and have been displaced.
- Supporting individuals suffering from financial hardship due to business closures linked to the fire and the resulting loss of household income.
- Funding community recovery activities, if resources allow.
Immediate needs are being addressed through grant awards distributed by the Cumbria Community Foundation in collaboration with Westmorland and Furness Council and the Kirkby Lonsdale Community Cupboard. A committee comprising representatives from the Community Foundation and the Kirkby Lonsdale Community Recovery Partnership will oversee the grant awards.
The appeal has been kickstarted with a £50,000 donation from Westmorland and Furness Council, enabling the first wave of awards to be made before Christmas. Additionally, the four Freemasonry Lodges at the Masonic Hall in Kirkby Lonsdale have generously contributed £2,250 to the appeal. This amount has been further augmented by donations of £250 from Trinity Lodge in Kendal, £1,500 from the Craft Provincial Benevolent Fund, and £1,000 from the Mark Provincial Benevolent Fund, bringing the total to an impressive £5,000.
This initiative showcases the remarkable community spirit and support from local Freemasons in times of unexpected tragedy. The target for the appeal is £150,000.
