Essex Freemason Raises Over £250,000 for Saint Francis Hospice Through Decades of Fundraising
An Essex Freemason has raised more than £250,000 for Saint Francis Hospice through decades of sustained fundraising and personal commitment. Frank Sharp, who has been a Freemason since the late 1960s, has dedicated much of his time to supporting the Romford-based hospice, which provides care for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
Establishing the Yvonne Jean Stewart Charitable Trust
In 2004, Frank Sharp helped establish the Yvonne Jean Stewart Charitable Trust following the death of a close friend. Working alongside fellow trustees, the Trust later chose to focus its fundraising efforts on Saint Francis Hospice, building a long-standing relationship with the organisation. That connection became more personal when a member of the extended family received care at the hospice, reinforcing the importance of its work.
Significant Donations and Fundraising Efforts
Since 2016, the Trust has donated £263,000, including a £21,000 contribution to fund an additional day of care in a leap year. After stepping down as Treasurer in 2018, Frank continued fundraising independently. He now raises money through online sales of donated items, many of which come from families looking to pass on belongings in a meaningful way. When donations are limited, he sources items himself to maintain momentum.
Annual Fundraising Results and Future Goals
His fundraising typically generates between £5,000 and £10,000 each year, with a peak of nearly £12,000. More than £3,000 has already been raised in 2026. Frank said: “It’s about doing something practical that makes a difference. The hospice supports people at the most difficult times in their lives, and that’s something worth backing.” His ongoing efforts continue to support the hospice’s work across the community, helping ensure patients and families receive the care they need.
