POVERTY IN AUCKLAND.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19970, 11 December 1926, Page 14

POVERTY IN AUCKLAND.

BLEAK OUTLOOK FOR CHRISTMAS. (Special to Daily Times.) AUCKLAND, December 10. ‘For the first time in my long experience I am disheartened,” said the Rev. Jasper Calder, city missioncr, this morning, when discussing Christmas prospects of the many poor families for whom he is trying to provide. “This has been the hardest year I’ve ever known,” continued Mr Calder. “The present unfortunate position is largely due to unemployment, and, unless a miracle happens, many families are going, to have an exceedingly dull time this Christmas. I have over 300 families to cater for, and I honestly do not know hovv I am goine to do it.” “What do you want most?” the niissioner was asked. “Money is best,” ho replied. “By our experience wo know how to make a little money go a long way. I also want blankets and groceries suitable for a camp we are holding at Christmas time for over 50 children. The camp will be at Waiheke, and is being organised by Sister Pat. The children will be in charge of a capable nurse, and our idea is to give them plenty of good food, sunshine, and sea bathing.” It was mentioned by the missioncr that over 1000 men are still out of work. “It has certainly been a very had year,” said Major Annie Gordon, Samaritan Officer of the Salvation Army, who is now preparing to provide Christmas dinners for some 300 poor families. At present she has 250 names and addresses on her books. _ - “The position,” said the Major, “is due to unemployment and also to the exceed ingly hard winter we’ve come through During that winter there were many families who had their first taste of poverty and who just wouldn’t ask for help, and there are many people up against it now who have never had to ask for help in their lives before. You have also to remember that there are 10 days at Christmas when no work can be got.”