GIFTS FOR LEPERS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXII, Issue 22240, 15 October 1935, Page 13

GIFTS FOR LEPERS

COLONY AT MAKOGAI CHRISTMAS APPEAL MADE The annual appeal for Christmas gifts for the leper patients on Makogai Island is again being made by Mr. D. L. Thomas, of Domain Road, Mount Albert, who for several years has been able, through the generosity of people all over the Dominion, to forward large consignments of comforts and novelties to brighten the lives of the 700 patients on the island. The consignment will leave Auckland about the end of next month. " Many of the patients Up.ve spent most of their lives on the island," said Mr. Thomas yesterday. " Their gratitude at receiving Christmas presents is almost pathetic. All types of gifts will be welcomed. Articles particularly appreciated by the patients are fishing tackle, clothing, books, magazines, tobacco, pipes, sports goods and sweets. Tennis and cricket are both played extensively on the island, so that we can always do wi + ,h plenty of cricket bats and balls and tennis racquets and balls."

There are about 60 children on the island and Mr. Thomas is keen to obtain as many toys and children's books as possible. Gramophone records, old and new, also are in great demand, and Mr. Thomas suggests that people who have discarded their gramophones in recent years should forward the records to him. He hopes to send 60 cases of gifts.