The Otago team received the donation to go to the New Zealand Special Olympics in Christchurch next month. More than 80 athletes and support staff need about $140,000 to make it to the Games.
Special Olympics Otago chairman Rob Torrance said the money from the Freemasons was "absolutely gold" and would help the more than 80 athletes and support staff in their bid to raise $140,000 to go to the Games.
They had already raised about $35,000 on their own.
"We always struggle with funding for our athletes, and to get a $20,000 donation from them is just a dream come true," Mr Torrance said.
The athletes will take part in a variety of sports including golf, powerlifting, 10-pin bowling and swimming.
The Otago athletes are hoping to qualify for a spot in the national team to go to Santiago in Chile for the 2027 Special Olympics.
Mr Torrance said it was "life-changing" for some of them to go overseas.
"It’s a big step for them.
"You're talking about a huge leap in confidence in being able to live by themselves."
Freemason project co-ordinator Grant Watson said they organised a quiz night to fundraise for the donation and about 60 people showed up.
He said it was a worthy cause because supporting the elderly, young and disabled was a pillar of their organisation.
