A HELPING HAND

Evening Post, Volume 32, Issue 32, 6 August 1931, Page 17

A HELPING HAND

BORSTAL" ASSOCIATION

Many matters of importance to the welfare of the girls Of the Borstal Institution at Point Halswell .came under consideration of .they, committee'"of voluntary workers who assist the inmates, particularly when they leave the institution. The names of several who have left recently wore mentioned as having , arrived- at their destinations safely, and do- have niade a good beginning in life 'again.

It was stated that it is a great advantage to have the generous contribution of clothing from tho Two-garment Society to draw upon in the case of girls who have come irto the institution bereft of all but "just what they ?'stand .un in," as the endeavour, is to start them off with a feeling of self-respect, and adequate clothing is a very great assistance. , Several letters were read from girls who have been away for some time expressing ■ their intention:..to. become "good which was felt to be very satisfactory and a light attitude of mind. .

Others had benefited by the games taught', as they had been able to join sports associations, and to take part intelligently, which took them into avenues of wholesome amusement. Tho great difficulty, of placing girls who have no homes was mentioned, a number ot them who are both capable and worthy of assistance, being out of employment.* A vote hi thanks w"as passed to the T. G. Macarthy Trustees for the gift of £25 towards'the'year's expenses in connection with the girls'. It was decided that some special efforts must be made towards raising funds to carry out the work of after-care, as there arj quite a number of expenses after the inmate, have finished .their term of detention, for tliero is usually no oro who can meet thorn, sometimes to the detriment of the girls.Reports were read from Miss Watkin and, some" of the associates of the committee, as well as_ a number from convmitte.o. members. Leave 6f absence was given to Dr. Platfcs-Mills for three months, with an expression of regret at her present indisposition. "Votes of thanks were passed to a number of kindly helpers in other parts of the Dominion who have done much for the girls in their districts. The meeting was held at the Dominion Farmers' Institute yesterday, the chairman presiding.'