A , COMMUNITY SERVICE

Taupo Times, Volume I, Issue 3, 30 January 1952, Page 1

A , COMMUNITY SERVICE

FUNDS FOR THE AMBULANCE , The question of raising funds for , maintaining the St. John Ambulanee I Service now that it has been established, was discussed at a meeting of the St. John Ambulanee Association, Taupo Branch, held at Rickets Hall on January 16 last. It was pointed cut that the ambulanee is not a free service, and that if , it were not for the public spirit and generosity of the drivers and attendaifts in giving voluntary gratuitous services, the mileage rate of 1/- now charged on the trip to Rotorua even then would not be sufficient to maintain the ambulanee without loss. Following upon the discussion it was decided to submit to the eitizens of Taupo a proposal that each household should make a contribution of 25/-, for this year. This subscription would entitle husband, wife, and children under 16 years of age to free ambulanee service to the hospital should the need arise. It is in effect, a form of m^urance. A household not contributing in this way would be charged at the usual full rate of 1/- per mile The rate within the town board area is 12/6 up to four miles, and 3/- per mile up to ten miles. The conimittee feels confident that this insurance scheme will place the ambulanee running costs on a sound footing, and that it will be an advantage and benefit to the public. Furthermore, in making such a contribution, the subscribers will be supporting a bdmane and worthy service. A minimum of 200 subscribers would make the plan workable, but more would be welcome. There are some 400 householders, 1 permanent in Taupo. At the end of #

the year the position would be reviewed, and the subscription, rate amended should circumstances warrant a change either for a lower or higher rate. It is obvious that the greater the total of subscribers the more likely the possibility of a lowei rate. These contributors should communicate with the secretary, Miss A. Wehringo,