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Hokitika Guardian, 18 December 1931, Page 4

Thk appeal made by the Mayor for contributions to a relief fund to assist unemployment and distress in the town sham'd meet with a good response. At tin’s time of the year the spirit of giving is abroad, and pleasure is to he derived from pleasurable'acts. Apart from that, there is the urgent need for assistance *o aid fihe needy. It is a fact that many families are in want due to the dearth of employment. Under the scheme known a.s No. 5 certain classes of men are entitled to relief work at set days on a .sustenance rate of pay. The money allocated -to the district from week to week by the Unemployment Board is not adequate to give all those registered the rationed tune allotted to (hem. The days of work nre being curtailed, and earnings arc reduced accordingly. This means a pinch in many homes, and it is to succour those in need that money is asked for to aid deserving cases. The money will be handled by responsibite civic officers who it is expected will have tlie help of benevolent minded ladies who will see that as.much use as possible is made of the money received. It is hoped to help families in need of food and clothing and to carry out this charitable du-tv in a manner which will not give any offence or seek to place those benefitted under -any obligation. In former years a Women's Benevolent Institution did

admirable work and it is to be regretted tbs’ ne-d for such an organisation should have arisen again. Mr Perry, our worthy Mayor, may be trusted to do the right thing in this matter and see that the h-eJp goes to deserving quarters. It is for the public now to make their response. Many personal appeals are no doubt being met by the business people as it is, and their resources are perhaps well taxed already. Still, every little will help and assistance from that quarter in money or goods will be most acceptable. Those in permanent positions or occupations should take pleasure in assisting |n such an emergency. Those holding situations are happii'y placed these times, and should not begrudge something to their less fortunate comrades and townspeople not placed so fortunately in /these difficult times.