CRIPPLED CHILDREN

Wairarapa Times-Age, 24 May 1943, Page 2

CRIPPLED CHILDREN

WORK OF WAIRARAPA BRANCH ANNUAL REPORT. NEED FOR MORE MEMBERS. . The annual report of the Wairarapa branch of the New Zealand Crippled Children Society states that careful attention has been given to all cases on the roll. The number has increased to 131, a net increase of 16 in spite of the removal of four casdfe during the year. All children have been visited whenever possible and at least one visit had been paid to every child by the welfare officer. It is hoped that a further travelling clinic will be conducted this year and arrangements are under consideration at present. Eleven new members have been added to the roll during the year, making a total of 141, and one new life member has been added. The executive invites all members to bring the society to the notice of their friends. The membership could be largely increased and the beneficial work extended through the practical support thus given. Regret is expressed at the death of Mr F. H. Dunderdale who was one of the earliest life members of the society, and who, in addition, generously supported the society each year. The total expenditure for the year amounted to £264 2s 6d, and the income was again slightly in excess of this amount, being £294 14s lOd. The amount expended bears no real relationship to the amount of work actually done, as in very many cases a considerable amount of honorary work is carried out at little or no expense to the society, and also medical and surgical care is provided} free of charge by the State, and at reduced rates by private specialists. During the year the society has received advice of two legacies, one of which will not be available for a considerable number of years. The action of citi-> zens in recognising the good work of the society in this manner is very much appreciated by the executive. It is impossible to express appreciation to all individuals and organisations who have helped the society during the year. In particular, the society thanks the board, medical and nursing staffs of the Wairarapa hospitals, the members of the medical, dental and nursing professions, the directors of the Wairarapa Times-Age Company and the Masterton Printing Company, the Press, the society’s welfare officer, Mrs S. N. Kilgour, the secretaries, Messrs Dunderdale and Gray, and their staff, and the auditor, Mr D. B. Curry.

The report is signed by Mr E. M. Hodder, chairman.