CHURCH SOCIAL SERVICES

Press, Volume XCVI, Issue 28413, 21 October 1957, Page 13

CHURCH SOCIAL SERVICES

Care Of Aged And Children

“The church in this diocese will shortly be caring for. about 100 elderly people.” said the Dean of Christchurch (the Very Rev. Martin Sullivan> to the annual session of the Synod of the Diocese of Christchurch.

A new wing would be opened at Fitzgerald House, an Anglican home for the aged, on November 10. said Dean Sullivan. Within a short time the church would have the responsibility of carinn for many more old people, with the extension of social services.

About 60 children, mainly the products of broken homes, were eared for by the church in -ottage homes, or under the care of foster-parents, he said. Where possible, children were left in their own home or with relatives, however.

A new home for old people was planned in Timaru. said Dean Sullivan. “This is a joint enterprise between the Methodist and Anglican Churches, and will prove an adventurous and worthwhile project.” he said. At present the social services for the aged carried out by the church ran at an annual loss of £5OOO, which was only recouped by legacies. Income from members of the Social Service Council was only about £250 and that from parishes about £7OO.

A suggestion was made by the Rev. L. A. Barnes that the Anglican Church should have a hospital for the care of the aged, in line with other denominations.