CHRISTMAS TEA FOR PRISONERS.

Press, Volume LXVI, Issue 20098, 29 November 1930, Page 19

CHRISTMAS TEA FOR PRISONERS.

TO THB IDITOR 0» TUB PBSSB Sir, —May I ask for space in your valuable paper as the festive season approaches one© again to ask the triends interested in prison reform to remember that it is my privilege as Probation Officer to provide a special tea on Christmas Day and New Year's Day for £ho inmates at the Women's Reformatory, Addington. By the courtesy of the Lady Superintendent, Miss Hunt, we are permitted to celebrate these occasions, scarcely realising we are all "locked in." There are sad and lonely ones serving time who perhaps are not the worst offenders, not the most wicked among us, often just weak and misguided; therefore it is a joy to see all at the laden tables in the long stone corridor, beautifully decorated for the occasion: seemingly cart-free and happy for the time being. It ia the one and only season when no attendant or prison official is present, when as Police Court and Probation Officer (assisted by Mrs Major Barnes) we are allowed to preside at table, and greetings and suitable gifts are provided. Any balance is used to provide a quiet afternoon tea with a service of song at Easter time. Will those anxious to give happiness to our unfortunate sisters mark their donation "For Prison Tea." Thanking you in anticipation. — tours, etc., HANNAH L. COOMBS, Adjutant. 200 Manchester street, Christchurch. November 28th, 1930.