WORKING TO HELP

Evening Post, Volume CXVI, Issue 26, 31 July 1933, Page 6

WORKING TO HELP

When we come to look back upon the economic crisis, one of the brightest patches of a gloomy time will be the self-sacrificing labours of those who have tried to help. The work done in this way is often disregarded. Two recent efforts should help to direct attention to its scope and value. The Coster Ball and the Postmen's Clothes Drive were both big tasks, and both were most successful. What is not often realised is the tremendous amount of organisation which must precede and follow such efforts. Before the postmen set out on the self-appointed task which they carried out with such efficiency—the actual collection of parcels—the whole of the city and suburbs had to be mapped out, transport, depots, and assistance organised. Afterwards .the, ! goods collected had to be sorted and.distributed, or sent forward for repairs. That work is still proceeding, and it is arduous. Nor was the Coster Ball the produtt of a day or two of arrangement. For weeks before: hand voluntary helpers had been working hard in preparation. It was desired that expenses should be kept as low as possible, and very many men and women gave freely of their spare time to assure this. The splendid success of the-ball .was the result of weeks of 'thorough and painstaking effort. There is ariolher aspect of the matter to which attention may also be directed. These special efforts are not merely spectacular spurts of activity for the relief of the distressed. They are part of a great work which is proceeding steadily day by day and week by week. The Postmen's Drive was organised in. conjunction with the Smith Family and the Inter-Church Relief Committees, who will distribute the clothes collected.-'-.. The Smith Family and the committees are permanent organisations constantly en« gaged in this work. Their mainten-

ance involves self-sacrificing labour by many hundreds of people all the year round. The Coster Ball was organised to assist the Rev. Fielden Taylor's City Mission Men's Shelter, which is never closed. The permanent organisations carrying on this necessary work must carry on. Often the helpers may be tired or discouraged; but while there is a load to be carried they never drop their.bundle. Their example should be an inspiration to those who are inclined to say: "It's give, give, give, and we're taxed so much. Why can't the Government attend to all this!" Though taxes are heavy and giving is generous, those who are closely-in touch with the work realise that the need is greater still.