WOMEN'S DIVISION

Dominion, Volume 33, Issue 185, 2 May 1940, Page 4

WOMEN'S DIVISION

Need Of Assistance For Farmers' Wives

The quarterly meeting of the Women’s Division of the Farmers’ Union, Manawatu Provincial Committee; was held recently with a full attendance of delegates from all branches. Mrs. McLeavy presided. The quarter's work was discussed, with other matters of interest, including the offer of help to farmers’ waves which was made by the girl guides. Each branch presented a report of its work and all showed that live interest was being taken in the work of the W.D.F.U.

It was stated that it seemed almost impossible to procure suitable women as housekeepers and the staff of tlie Manawatu Provincial Branch was now reduced to one. There must be many women in New Zealand able to do this work, and no greater help to the war effort could be made. Though the work might seem hard it was only what the farmers’. wives were doing year in and' year out. It. was a work of national importance and the women who did. it should be honoured above most of their sisters.

The Shannon branch reported that a party for more than SO children had been held and that the members of the Farmers’ Union were entertained to supper after the routine business of the February meeting. The Levin branch was able to make n donation to the Rest Home Fund of £l5/15/-, and one of £8 to the Provincial Housekeepers’ Fund. To the Mental Hospital Christmas cheer. £1 was sent, and the same amount to the Army, Navy, and Air Force Club room. Besides this, several packages of books and magazines were sent to the Mental Hospital. The Ohau branch, among other activities, held a community sing and also appointed delegates to attend a meeting called to form an Overseas War Service Entertainment Club at Ohau.

The Otaki-Te Horo branch had held several well-attended meetings, at one of which two competitions attracted many entries. The prize for a Christmas novelty was won by an artistic peg-bag which had cost id.- —the cost of the hook. One call for a housekeeper was filled. The Paraparnuniu branch, among other things, had farewelled its president, who was leaving the district. ' Visitors from other branches were present, and Mrs. MeLeavy (the provincial president), presented a beautiful paua shell clock to the retiring president on behalf of the members.