Gift Goods for Soldiers.

Levin Daily Chronicle, 23 October 1917, Page 3

Gift Goods for Soldiers.

Y.M.C.A. WORK EULOGISED.

The rumour gaining currency that , voluntary gift goods from the people of New Zealand never reach the soldiers in hospital prompted an enquiry on behalf of the Te Awamutu Branch of the Auckland Women's Patriotic League, to Sister C. E. Cutforth of the N.Z. Army Nursing Service. The enquiry particularly referred to Red Cross work, and "the reply conies from, the Walton-on-Thames Hospital. After describing the issue and the usefulness of the Red Cross goods and telling of an inspection by General Richardson, who describes New Zealand as "a wonderful and marvellous help in supplying serviceable comforts for the men," she goes on to say: — •'The Y.M.C.A. is a wonderful organisation, and their good work baffles description; they are everywhere where they are needed. You cannot imagine the good they arc doing in the great city of London where hidden dangers abound for the men who, accustomed as they are to conditions in our precious home land, are all too unprepared for the many pitfalls. The Y.M.C.A. lias saved more suffering and more sorrow than you can imagine; it has kept many laddies from shame and disgrace. It is a homely influence away from home. It has a welcome for all the soldiers; it knows no creed and social standing does not count. _ All arc made welcome and all are given the full benefit of its social entertainment and recreation which is so desirable for the safe-keeping of the men. It is so everywhere; the Y.M.C.A. is always busy and always doing just what is wanted. The men know and it is they who speak most loudly of its worth. Here at Walton they have a lovely placc where all the boys can get afternoon tea and there is a comfortable sitting room with pianos, etc., and reading and writing rooms, and they do everything to keep the minds of the men occupied and to relieve the monotony of time in the hospital and this is a very important factor in the restoiation of good health. I could not say cnough in praise of what I have seen of the Y.M.C.A., and I could not too strongly urge you to aid it by eveiy possible means in its great and noble work. Right up to the very last they cheer the poor maimed- and sick lad-, dies and every draft is given a send-off before joining the ship which is to convey them back to New Zealand.