The Kumara Times. Published Every Evening. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 1879.

Kumara Times, Issue 993, 5 December 1879, Page 2

The Kumara Times. Published Every Evening. FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5, 1879.

Ahono the many local institutions in existence in this town, there is one that, although not ostensibly brought before the public, is none the less deserving of sympathy and support, on the, ground of the relief it has afforded to those coming within the boundaries of its functions, viz., the Benevolent Society. Organised some two years ago by the ladies of this town, the society has quietly, though effectually, carried out the purposes for which it was formed, as it matters little how prosperous a community, there are always to be found o ses of distress which require alleviation, although the relief afforded, to be beneficial, must be bestowed with some degree of circumspection. Unfortunately now, however, through several of its members leaving the district and the vacancies thus caused remaining unfilled, the whole business of the society has boon thrown on the hands of two lady members only. Under these circumstances the secretaiy of the society lias intimated that they arc no longer able to carry on the work of that institution ; and, in accordance with a recuiisition to that effect from the ministers and representatives of the various denominations, 11 is Worship the Mayor has convened a meeting to be held on Monday afternoon next, to take steps to meet the confingeney. Both in Grey month and Hokitika, the Benevolent fjocieties have effected the greatest good, although composed of the sterner sex not that wo wish lor one moment, to disparage the kind serv ices the holies ol this town have alicady rendered in the, matter—but there are not any more fitted to judge real cases of distress whether of body or mind than probably ministers of religion. On these grounds we would suggest that to ensure the formation, or more properly speaking the c mtiuuation, in this town, of a Benevolent Society it would be advisable to hive ml denominations repre-

seated on the Committee!, as in iliat c.ifte tlio Visiting minister would .simply have tC I'epoi t on every case ol distress requiring relief and his recommendations would he given effect to hy the society. We trust on Monday next that the nucleus of a strong society will be formed for this purpose.