CHRISTMAS CHEER

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVII, Issue 8611, 23 December 1913, Page 4

CHRISTMAS CHEER

HELP FOR STRIKE SUFFERERS. THE MAYOR’S FUND. A public meeting, convened by the Mayor, was held at the Town Hall last night, with a view to raising funds to secure for many women and children in the city (who through special circumstances cannot provide for themselves) the moans to suitably celebrate Christinas. There was an attendance of about a dozen, presided over by the Mayor, Mr J. P. Luke. It was reported that a ready response to the call for financial aid had been received. A generous gift in a cheque for £2OO had oome to hand from Messrs J. Staples and Ct., Ltd., besides other similar support. At the close of the meeting it was announced that the funds, including amounts promised, totalled £239 7s, and it was expected that the morning’s post would bring further assistance. In opening the meeting, the Mayor said that he was sorry to see such a poor attendance. He had felt that it was right and proper that, on behalf of the City Council, he should try to assist in providing funds to help those in the city, -who, through the distress prevalent of late, had no opportunity of entering into the celebrations and festivities of the Christmas season. Unless something was done for them outside ,nr their own organisation, their Christina-, would be a cheerless one. However, the support already extended financ ally had been particularly gratifying. Following is the list of contributions:—Messrs J. Staples and Co., Ltd., £3OO, G. Shirtcliffo £lO, W. Ferguson and J. P. Luke £5 each, G, Winder £2 2s, W. Taylor £2, S. Myers, J. R. Palmer, A. It. Hind marsh, M.P., W. Thompson and W. D. Ferguson £1 Is each.

Those present formed themselves into a committee for the consideration of the disbursement of the funds. After a full discussion of the matter it was decided that the distribution should be in kind, except in very necessitous cases.

The faceting was adjourned until 2.30 o’clock this afternoon.

In an announcement published in our advertising columns, the Mayor says it is very important that iuller funds should bo provided to assist pressing cases. Donations may be forwarded to tho Mayor, the town clerk, and other members of tho committee. A quick response will bo appreciated.