The Guardian And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1927. HOSPITAL DAY.

Hokitika Guardian, 1 December 1927, Page 2

The Guardian And Evening Star, with which is incorporated the West Coast Times. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 1927. HOSPITAL DAY.

The planning of a Hospital Day lor Westland is a step in the right direction. In the ordinary course no more necessary an institution could he established in any community. It is indispcnsible for the public weal. Unit being accepted, the next aspect is the efficient maintenance of the hospital so that it will serve its purpose to the fullest advantage. Westland is particularly' well served by' the local institution, in that it is well equipped and found for the great purpose it has to serve. With tho improvements in reading and the facilities for quick transport nowadays, the local hospital has been considered even well placed for its purpose. The situation ol the hospital is ideal from a fresh air point of view, and provides an outlook on a scene which always affords some new aspect. Those responsible for the management of the hospital have found it obligatory in the interests of careful management to see that it is well served with local supplies fresh from the market garden or the dairy. This has occasioned a certain line of expansion involving some initial expense, but in the end ensuring economy on t7ie domestic side. It is not so very long ago tha the rebuilding scheme was brought to fruition. In that important undertaking the establishment of the Old Peoples’ Home was also a special feature. Again, for economy in administration, the two institutions were brought together and now form n creditable whole which serves a. very necessary purpose in the general welfare. The management of the dual institution with its expanding grounds, is not a light task. It is understood the capital outlay has in the main finished. That is, the buildings requisite for local purposes are now completed, and the chief drain in the general expenditure is in respect to the grounds, and their further utilisation for food production. The cost falls primarily on the local bodies and the Government. The local bodies meet the charge in the main through the special rates collected for the purpose. Time was when the hospitals were maintained almost entirely by voluntary contributions. Of late years that source of revenue has fallen away, hut as many folk are not ratepayers, or at least very small contributors, it is reasonable to expect more outside aid through vountnry payments. The young folk and rising , generation might help considerably in that way, and a little from many would count largely in the end. The opportunity for all to aid with a little free will giving will he afforded by the determination to hold Hospital Day this year. The occasion ‘ls not confined to the town, but will extend to the? country. and all will have the chance of contributing spontaneously to a most worthy purpose. The outstanding fact about the hospital is that its doors are open always in case of emergency, and one never knows when the contingency to enter its portals as a patient may arise. In that event, everything the patient may need will he found ready at hand. Comfort and cleanliness and a service which is of the very best. It is worth while, therefore for all to help in doing something to assist in keeping the hospital up to the highest peak of general service. Those who can—and who cannot afford even a trifle—should make ready response to the appeal now in hand. The funds raised in this way will earn Government subsidy, a further reason to encourage free-will giving. For every

pound sterling subscribed, a like amount will be paid to the credit of the hospital funds through the Government financial channel. There is thus a special claim on the local generosity at this juncture, and townspeople and country folk should lie up and doing to ensure the appeal resulting in a sum worthy the occasion, and at the same time show practical appreciation of the work of those who are making the local institution so very useful to the community, and a pride to all who realise what a value it is to the district generally.