METHODIST ORPHANAGES

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21982, 13 December 1934, Page 15

METHODIST ORPHANAGES

APPEAL FOR ASSISTANCE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION The fact that finance had caused a considerable amount of concern during the past year, and a heavy bank overdraft had been avoided only by keeping in the current account money from legacies, which otherwise might have been added to capital, is emphasised in the annual report of the Auckland Methodist Children's Home and Orphanage, issued yesterday. The board is stated to be dependent upon public and Church support, owing to the poor circumstances of the relatives of many of the children. In addition, nearly £3OO a year is required by the board for a long-dated mortgage for the payment of interest and the repayment of principal. Next Sunday will be observed as Orphanage Sunday in Methodist churches and Sunday schools, and collections will be made in aid of orphanage funds. Apart from the church collections, Christmas donations will be gratefully received by the Rev. G. Frost, of Gardner Road, Epsom. The 21st anniversary of the opening of Wesley Home, Mount Albert, the first Methodist orphanage in New Zealand, will be celebrated on Saturday afternoon. A birthday fund has been established and contributions are invited. The home was opened 011 December 20, 1913, as the joint gift of Mrs. W. H. Smith (now Mrs. Caughey Preston), and her brother, Mr. A. C. Caughey. Since its opening nearly 300 girls and boys have passed through the home. A birthday souvenir, the main story in which has been written by the Rev. W. T. Blight, contains a number of short articles and over 40 illustrations.

The report makes a reference to the retirement at the enrl of the year of the secretary, the Rev. S. Griffith, after 10 years' office. A tribute is paid to Mr. Griffith's services by the chairman, Mr. E. D. Fatchett.