THE DEPRESSION FIEND.

Auckland Star, Volume LXII, Issue 150, 27 June 1931, Page 2 (Supplement)

THE DEPRESSION FIEND.

BUDGET ARMY ENTERS INTO HOSTILITIES, A WAR THAT IS GOOD IN THE SIGHT OF, ALL. Dear Boys and Girls,— For a long time the Budget columns have been silent concerning the present unhappy state of unemployment and its unhappy results in our fair land. No lack of sympathy caused this; rather it was felt that so general was the depression that a great many of our readers were, caught within the coils of the "Depression Fiend," and for that reason no appeal was issued. However, it now seems that the call must go out —not sounding its usual general note, but to those who feel that their circumstances justify the giving of a little to help those less fortunate than themselves. When a tramper returns from an extended hike it is usual to sort the contents of the pack into three piles—those articles used frequently, those used very occasionally, and those for -which no occasion arose for use. All the last pile and most of the second are discarded on future tramps, and so a "minimum tramping kit" is arrived at. Now I suggest to Budget readers that .they perform the same act with their belongings—clothes, toys, books, etc. By discarding those which serve but infrequently a contribution can be made in answer to the Budget call. All social workers are in urgent need of left-off clothing, and without a doubt many readers could help in this matter by the application of the principle above. Some, perhaps, could add a cash donation to their gift, Small though the individual offering may be, one should bear in mind the parable of the bundle of sticks—the accumulation of many small things soon makes an imposing pile. Books and toys have been mentioned also, for they are often saleable and so a few extra shillings made to add to the total. Although it is generally felt that the turning point is close at hand, it must be remembered that the process of reconstruction is not accomplished in a short period, so perhaps this appeal is being sent out at a time when its effects will be most appreciated. Parcels or other contributions should be sent addressed to me and marked "Winter Cheer Campaign." J>"S\ Let's all enlist in the army to rout *^*^* the "Depression Fiend," so that many i \y good deeds may crown the Budget's \^C\f)l&A jL*" -^^^ entry into its sixth year of operations. \]S*z!^^^ Everyone arm—it's war to the death.