THE CHRISTMAS SEAL

Hokitika Guardian, 14 November 1931, Page 6

THE CHRISTMAS SEAL

SAFEGUARDING CHILDREN During the next few weeks, the public of New Zealand have an opportuunity, by purchasing the Christmas Seal Stamps on sale at all Post Offices, to assist in an effort to provide permanent bases for health camps for treatment of children suffering from malnutrition. Stamps were used as means of raising money for hospitals as . long ago, as the Civil War in the United States. ■ In 1897 such a stamp was used in Australia to secure limds for the establishment of a' 4 hospital for treatment of sufferers from tuberculosis. Hut it is to the inspiration of a Danish postal clerk, Elinar Molboell, that we owe the Christmas Seal idea as i't has developed in the past twentyeight years. He it wa s who in 1903 interested his government in the idea of sale of stamps at Christmas time to build a hospital for tubercular children.

In New Zealand such funds as may be obtained through this 'source will lie used as indicated for prevention oi tuberculosis.

As a stimulus to growth, as an educative principle, and a s a regulator of the nervou s system, the existence of. health camps has proved invaluable and a boon to many dedicate children who require consideration in regulating their physical output of energy, and eliminating undue fatigue. A great improvement in the physical and mental vitality of the children com)R>sing the health camps is always a striking example of the benefit derived from the simple routine which provides these facilities for health, fresh air. sunlight, correct food, lest and exercise. The educational and health authorities in New Zealand aim at turning out the host children physically and mentally hut through social'and economic conditions, and other causes, there are amongst school children many who need supervision such as provided in health camps. Without facilities for treatment for such children what is to he their fate? Thousands in the Dominion have now an opportunity to decide, for by purchasing these staina person is assisting to transform an ailing, sickly child, into a robust, happy one. How can we possibly reap greater and more lasting benefits tjian by protecting our children from tuberculosis and diseases that handicap them in the battle of life.