Benevolence

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From the inception of our Order in Georgia individual actions of benevolence have been common. The first formal benevolent committee was in during World War 1, in 1917, when an OES Red Cross Work Committee was appointed by the Worthy Grand Matron. They made or solicited help with making garments for refugees and sent them to France and Belgium.  Groups got together and made surgical dressings, trench candles and provided items to fill boxes for soldiers in camps.  War Stamps, Liberty Bonds and Victory Bonds were purchased to help in the war effort.

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In 1943 the Grand Chapter of Georgia voted for the Benevolence Committee to become a permanent Committee to assist worthy indigent persons with a monetary grant.  The money to support this project is made possible through donations received from members and non-members.  Assistance is open to anyone needing help. You do not have to be a member of the Order to qualify.

Besides the assistance given at the Grand Chapter level, the individual Chapters across the state perform many acts of benevolence in their communities.  The Grand Chapter Benevolence Committee recognizes the top three (3) chapters in the state with the highest pro-rated percentage of benevolent deeds by awarding the Genieve Burns Memorial Benevolence Award each year at the annual Grand Chapter Session.

To obtain an application for assistance or to make a donation contact the nearest chapter or the Grand Chapter Benevolence Committee through the Grand Secretary of Georgia at gcgaoes@gmail.com or https://www.georgiaoes.com.