ALLEVIATION OF SUFFERING

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 6, Issue 64, 13 April 1943, Page 4

ALLEVIATION OF SUFFERING

FRIDAY next, will see the launching of the Whakatane appeal in the process of a district-wide campaign in the interests of the local branch of the St. John Ambul'ance Association. Though the form of appeal will be little more than a shop in the Strand, citizens are asked not to under-* estimate the worthiness of the cause on account of its modesty, but to give liberally of their patronage. All too little is known of this splendid organisation which for ite effectiveness and efficiency might justifiably be classed with the Royal Navy under the title of the 'silent service.' Little is known of its activities by the average person, mainlv because its services are given free and the wholb move' ment is entirely voluntary. It might surprise Whakatane residents to know that since the motor ambulance has been in the district it has accomplished no less than 129 errands of mercy, embracing up to the opening of the present month some 5,435 miles. This splendid unit to whicb so many are deeply indebted was made available largely through the efforts of earlier members of the St. Johr> service. To-day funds are needed urgently for its upkeep and equipment.. They will be forthcoming just as soon as people realise the wonderful work which is being carried on. We have every confidence that Whakatane and district, will see to it that the splendid service is permanently maintained. Here are further instructive figures which will doubtless surprise. Since, its inauguration the St. Johi* organisation in Whakatane has trained 439 persons up to the First Aid examination point, besides hundreds of other!; whs have, attended classes. Glasses have been formed at Manawahe, Matata, Edgecumbe, Otakiri, Awakeri, T« Teko, Taneatua, Ohope, Waimana and Murupara. In addition to the two local doctors, the Association has three* approved lecturers whose time and. knowledge is freelv placed at the; disposal of the public. As a result of the ui>tensified work in this district there are now some 45 medallion holders (i.e. persons who have passed three axaminetions) and 10 with b_ars to medallion (4 examination passes) It is interesting to note that this active organisation does not stop at 'First Aid' work but has ramifications in £he diversified field of general administration to the sick and the relief of suffering. In Whakatane the movement embraces the St. John Aml?uteince: Brigade (men), the Nure» ing Division (ladies) and the Cadet Corps. A NursingDivision h£s also been established at Waimana and a movQ to found a Brigade and Division at Edgecumbe., Fridayaffords residents the opportunity to recognise the work of the St. John organisation in our midst and to acknowledge the splendid service it has quietly rendered to the community. We know that this will be readily forthcoming,