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Hokitika Guardian, 2 July 1929, Page 4

The response to the appeal' for funds to assist the distressed on the West Coast in the recent earthquake visitation has been remarkably spontaneous in most parts of 'New Zealand. It is evident a very largo sum will he raised, and the Government has acted wisely at the outset in deciding on central control in the handling of the very large sum. The bulk of the money will be required for those who have in the north, been ruined l>y the effects of the earthquake. Not only homes, but properties have been lost, stook destroyed, and whole valleys wip-

ed out. The unfortunate people will need all that can be spared for them, and in such cases it is doubtful if iHere loss can be fully made good. Tin's fact suggests that the fullest response possible should be made to the appeal for funds. A speaker at Wellington the other night, in appealing for funds, spoke of the character and spirit of the West Coasters, and urged a liberal response for the needs of those who tuemselves were so ope. hearted and generous at all times.. This appeal should not miss West Coasters themselves who were more fortunate than their northern neighbours in escaping the very serious consequences of the fell calamity. More might be done at this end in the way ef raising funds to assist in the general obligation to help those ruined in Murchison and Karamea districts in particular. With the central organisation that has been set up, and the aid of the local Advisory Committess, it should be possible to distribute available funds ill! an equitable manner. Those who have' suffered total losses such as many of the backbJock settlers in the north, should have generous consideration, and everything possible done to rehabilitate them in fresh quarters. The cost will be heavy no doubt, but it is the major claim in ■all the circumstances, to help those who are absolutely ruined. Fortunately at this end, the losses are not heavy. They are more inconvenient than seriiius, and the position can he faced .iii/better spirit. The ravages are far from serious, ana so fortunate,an escape iii all J he circumstances should prompt ready-giving for the benefit of those not so fortunate.y placed. It is. to he lipped that by this time all danger and peril« have, passed. The spirit o* the people is such that they will endeavour to make the best of things, and a hearty co-operative spirit at this juncture would he • the best asset of all. Cheerful giving just now would help tne less fortunate to face the future with greater hope, and in a happier frame of mind the people will the quicker overcome their difficulties and look ahead with greater contingency and readiness .. to retrieve the sjtuation.