Novel Donation to Blinded Servicemen

Manawatu Times, Volume 70, Issue 266, 10 November 1945, Page 3

Novel Donation to Blinded Servicemen

In the hope that others might follow his example a Northland farmer has made a novel donation for the benefit of blinded New Zealand servicemen. He has offered to the Blinded Servicemen’s Trust Board the proceeds of the recently announced extra payment of 1.064 d. a pound for butterfat. The donor, who wishes to remain anonymous, states that he hopes to produce 20,0001 b. of butterfat in the current season, which makes the monetary value of his gift in the vicinity of £9O.

In a letter to the Prime Minister (Mr. Fraser) written -on YJ. Day, the donor said: “Now that the war is over and won I think everyone of us should rejoice and show our gratitude to the men who sacrificed so much to make this day possible. Ido think and hope that every farmer who can help can do as I am doing without undue sacrifice.” The Prime Minister, in his reply accepting the gift, wrote: “In providing for disabled servicemen private generosity can achieve much than cannot be achieved through Government assistance, and your offer brings to mind the recollection that the respective merits of these two modes of assistance are discussed by Lt.-Col. Sir Inu Fraser, C.8.L., M.P., a blinded soldier of the last war, who is chairman of St. Dunstan’s, in his book ‘Whereas I was Blind.’ Sir lan concludes this portion of his book with the following words: ‘Do not let us ever do anything by legislation or propaganda to deter or damp down this voluntary spirit of human kindness. ’

“It is hoped that your gift will inspire other generous benefactions, not only of a monetary nature, but also by way of active voluntary assistance including the provision of amenities for disabled men of the kind which cannot always be procured with money.” The Minister of Rehabilitation (Mr. Skinner) also wrote thanking the donor, who in a further letter said he hoped his offer would develop interest iu rehabilitation work.