THE CALL OF THE CITY

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 254, 22 July 1919, Page 7

THE CALL OF THE CITY

Some people have the idea thAt-the present effort by the Young Women's Christian Association' of extending "-their operating of hostels where the business girl cail get accommodation at a'' comparatively low rate, is encouraging tho young women to take up- positions in offices, shop's 'and factgries as a means of earning a living in preference to domestic and home life. Careful reasoning -will show 'that tho Y.W.C.A. hardly enters tho, minds of the girls when they decide to work, in .the city. It is the cont'nubns. bustle, the numerous counter-attraction, - anil amusements of thickly-populated ccntres that draw the girls, many of -whom- prefer accepting lower salaries-to, work-in factories, shops and offices .than enter domestic life. The Y.W.C.A. - long ago perceived the seriousness of young women leaving friends and relatives to enter large cities and take up positions. In order that they might be properly cared, for ft opened hostels,- furnished club and - rest rooms, prepared'and delivered educational courses during..evenings, arranged socials, and officiated outdoor sports; in fact, everything possible was done to uplift the ''-girls,; intellectually, physically, socially and spiritually. • ; As to whether this work'is'appreciated is made plain by the fact that to-day the Y.W.C.A. has 1193 members, whilst many girls are. awaiting to gain membership. ■ - To cope with-the demand, the committee is extonding its present working schemes by securing more buildings for hostels, club and rest rooms, a. social hall and gymnasium. The estimated cost is .£15.(100. for which a public appeal is now being made. It is felt" that men, particularly employers. will seo the admirable nature of tho Y.W.C.A.'s work, and will subscribe generously to such a deserving cause. It means greater, efficiency from their girl staffs, for a'healthy, happy individual makes a more competent worker. The treasurer is Mr. A. D. Bayfcild. Box 1071, Wellington, to whom donations may bo sent.—(Published by arrangement.)