ORPHAN APPEAL

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22823, 2 September 1937, Page 8

ORPHAN APPEAL

HOMES IX AI.CKLASP, "{ PUBLIC SUPPORT SOUGHT 'if ' ? IMPORTANT SOCIAL WORK vl Public support for Auckland orphpn- | ages, to ensure the continuance of the essential work of caring for 500 bcvs" '<•■< and girls, frill be sought to-morrow by the Auckland Orphanages' Advisory <; Council in a street and home appeal. ' The council consists of representatives of the Anglican, Roman Catholic, Presbyterian, Methodist and Eapiist Churches, and the proceeds will be divided between the various institutions on a per capita basis. A generous response from the public ' is essential in the interests of the chil- ,• ' dren dependent on tie orphanages. For years subscriptions made to the different homes have failed to equal annual expenses, and it has been found necessary in some oases to spend endow- ■ ments and funds intended for re-build-ing and other purposes, to pay for.the upkeep of the homes and the living of the children. Cost of Provisions In addition to caring for 500 chil- ' dren, orphan homes in Auckland have staffs of varying sizes, with the result that they provide in all for about COO people. At present there are more hoys than girls among the children in the homes, and their healthy appetites a;, count for generous quantities of provisions, involving very considerable expense for these items alone. A major part in the present appeal is being played by the churches, which are assisting with details of the organisation. In addition, the Mayoress, Lady Davis, has arranged with a large number of social and other bodies for vojfin- . leers for the appeal itself, and there whs wide representation at a preliminary meeting held recently. Treat lor Children Much as the work of orphanages may be appreciated, only a small section of the general public takes an active interest in the important social function performed by the different homes. The majority of visitors to homes are n:ost agreeably surprised by the affectionate care bestowed on the children, and by the obvious efforts made to give the boy? and girls the best possible food and surroundings, consistent nith reasonable economy. Orphanages are proud of the children thoy house, and in the Mount Albert district a novel plan has been adopted of introducing the boys and girls personally to .well-wishers. It is a treat for the children to visit a private honte,' and residents have been'requested to invite an orphan to tea on Sunday, September 12. Hospitality offered on this occasion will serve a dual purpose. It will pive the Host an appreciation of the fine type of child in the care of the orphanages, and will provide for the youthful guest a greatly appreciated outing.