PUBLIC CHARITIES.

Clutha Leader, Volume I, Issue 22, 10 December 1874, Page 6

PUBLIC CHARITIES.

(To the Editor of the Clutha Leader.) Sib, — It is very gratifying to observe the financial success of entertainments given from time to time in aid of charities. Invariably, these entertainments are given by Amateur Dramatic or Garrick Clubs. It is an established fact that entertainments of this, descriptaoh accomplish far more satisfactorily the object sought than that bane to the public purse — the subscription list. In the one case, the public have often only the subscription list itself to satisfy them as to the worthiness of the object; in the other, the combined efforts of an organised public body. But, Mr. Editor, this is not tbe point I wish particularly to bring nnder yonr notice in this letter.

In a recent issue of the Otago * Guardian, 1 I observed an article directing attention to the numerous calls upon the funds of the Benevolent Institution, in which it was stated that the object of tbe Institute was being frustrated, in numerous instances of late, in consequence of the crippled condition the Committee were in through the want of funds. If I mistake not, it was also stated that the Committee, in many instances, had been compelled to refuse aid and assistance where it was evident that it was much required.

Now, Sir, whilst I approve of entertainments being given in aid of widows and orphans, whose husbands and fathers may nave accidentally met their death, I must certainly confess that I would much rather approve of periodical entertainments being given in aid of the funds of a Benevolent Institution or Industrial School. The reasons are very obvious: in the one instance, where a single individual or family is benefitted, in the other, either' of tbe benevolent bodies referred to are placed in a position to afford relief to perhaps two or three families in equally destitute circumstances. The number of Dramatic and Garrick Clubs throughout the Province fully justifies the suggestion of periodical entertainments in aid of these public charities ; and lam convinced that if the matter is represented to these bodies in a proper light they will not be backward in coming forward. In conclusion, I would suggest through the columns of the Leader that the Biccarton, Tokomairiro, and Balclutha Clubs take the initiative in this matter, and by giving periodical entertainments in aid of these objects, thus propogate a fund that will prove not only a boon at the present time, but a blessing for ages to come. — I am, &c, Benevolekcb. Balclutha, Dec. 8, 1874.