Beware of con artists who are supposedly brothers, If you don't know them personally or what lodge they are from. There are some masons out there who don't pay , yearly, blue lodge dues, and are not in good standing. Ask for a current up to date dues card. Some of these people use the craft to take advantage, and as a crutch in life. If the brother is a mason in good re-pour he will exhaust all options to raise money for his family before he asks for charity. If its an emergency and you know him well , lend the money and don't expect it back, that honest brother will reach out to you and offer to re pay. Just my insight, have a great day