William Mercer Wilson Centre

WHAT IS THE WILLIAM MERCER WILSON CENTRE?

An 86 Unit apartment building to provide affordable housing for older MASONS, their WIDOWS, FAMILIES and OTHERS. A residence where Seniors, with similar life-styles, may age in place, even when health deteriorates. While planned primarly to serve the needs of the Masonic Community, the Centre is open to other eligible applicants.

HOW IS THE WILLIAM MERCER WILSON CENTRE MANAGED?

The Centre is operated by a Board of Directors made up of 12 members, 4 of which are residents of the Centre. The Board meets Monthly to deal with policy issues and to approve new residents. Daily operations are taken care of by the Building Superintendents who are residents of the Centre.

HOW IS THE CENTRE FUNDED?

The basic structure was funded through a $6.5 Million mortgage, guaranteed by the Ontario Ministry of Housing and Municiple Affairs, to be repaid over 35 years from rental income. ( First units were rented November 1994) This allocation covers the basics only. Many extras are required which are essential for a facility of this nature, and additional funding is required. Rent is based on the individual householder’s ability to pay. No resident will pay more than 30% of their gross (1998) household income for rental of their units.

WHY IS ADDITIONAL FUNDING NEEDED?

To provide additional services, not covered in the basics, such as;

• A guest suite, available at a nominal cost, where out-of-town family and friends may stay while visiting.
• Improved lighting and handrails in all corridors.
• Grab bars in all bathrooms.
• Motion sensors, emergency call system and other personal security installations
• Furnishings in a home-like Residents’ Lounge.
• A Community Centre, with Kitchen.
• An Activity Centre with Patio.
• A Blue Lodge Room and Ante-Room. ( Home of Moffat Lodge #399)

WHY ARE MASONS BEING ASKED FOR SUPPORT?

Local Masons have assumed the responsibility for this initiative, and have undertaken the obligation of raising the additional funds. Through financial and material donations, the Masonic Community of London and Area has been able to errect a building which includes amenities beyond the typical housing development. This is a place which includes a Craft Lodge for the residents and the surrounding community of Masons. For the first time in Ontario there is a “Community” facility with the Masonic Symbol prominently displayed.

Who was William Mercer Wilson?

At the formation of the Grand Lodge of Canada, A.F. & A.M., William Mercer Wilson was selected as the first Grand Master, a post to which he was elected nine times. His fine personal qualities and oratorical skills helped Mercer Wilson to enable the Grand Lodge to grow in harmony, and avoid the factionalism that beset other organizations at the time. His exemplary leadership and life of public service have provided a model for the concept of the William Mercer Wilson Centre.