MILK FOR CHILDREN

Evening Post, Volume CXXI, Issue 35, 11 February 1936, Page 8

MILK FOR CHILDREN

SUPPLY TO BEGIN

Until some comprehensive scheme for the distribution of free milk to school children can be devised, by the Government, the Smith Family has undertaken to continue its distribution and will commence its fourth year of supply on March 2. There has teen a reduction in the number of children requiring hospital treatment since the Family first commenced issuing milk, and it is believed that this is due to the improved general health of the children. During last year the funds for the milk issued were raised by a calendar,scheme and the same method is being employed this year. In the p&st the milk has been taken to the schools in bulk, the teachers co-operating in the distribution.' However, the bulk system is unwieldy and inclined to be insanitary, so half-pint bottles will be used this year. This will cost more than the bulk method, but will mean a considerable saving in time and will also provide the milk in a thoroughly sanitary condition. Because of the cost the Family is appealing to the general' public for the utmost support for the season.

The secretary of the Smith Family stated today that the establishment of a general Government scheme would take a considerable time owing to the varying conditions in different centres. Wellington was in a fortunate position, as the Milk Department of the City Council provided the distribution and removed the need for the formation of any special organisation. The bottles and straws would be distributed by the department and consequently the teachers who had so readily assisted would not be required to give so much of their time. I