THE Y.W.C.A. CAFETERIA.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 20069, 8 April 1927, Page 14

THE Y.W.C.A. CAFETERIA.

It was n cold day, with cheerless rain falling, and to step from a bleak noon into the warm cheerfulness of the Y.W.C.A. cafeteria was to experience a quick reaction to a welcoming atmosphere. A spacious room with gay yellow curtains at its airy windows, on whiso sills arc pots of- flowers in bloom, is set with' little tables, Kach has its va-sc of blossoms and leaves, and its spotless tablecloth. A happy stream of girls was coming in some in twos and threes, others with an interest ing book, which must be read as they ate The procedure of serving is complete and efficient. Each took her knife, fork, and spoon and a tray, then passed on to the counter of the kitchenette, whore she could take her selection of dishes. To-day it was corned beef or rissoles, with two vegetables, and the sweets wore apple pie or bread-and-butter custard —all cooked beautifully, served daintily, and all—miracle of organisation—piping hot. For the sweet-toothed was fruit jelly. Then there was bread and butter, a cup of tea, or a hot drink; and the tray was token back to the waiting table. A whole nourishing and attractive meal whoso details vary from day to day must surely be expensive! Hut the total cost, the maximum cost, is only Is 2d, a sum witftin the reach of every girl s purse and really ridiculously moderate. Others were hurrying in from workroom or factory, bringing their own lunch with them. They just required the tea, which cost them only a couple of pence. For at the cafeteria there is no obligation to take tho whole meal.' A voluntary worker, who checks each, tray as it leaves the counter and collect! the money charges for each item and the girls may take as much or a< little a s they please. The wise ones have meal tickets, for 5s 6d provides five full meals—a boon, to the schoolgirls who were coming in at half-past 12. The nurobor and variety of the diners made me put a tentative query. I was under the impression that only those who were members wore able to come to the cafeteria. But the Y.W C.A. welcomes all. and is glad to see new faces every day. Not only lunch but tea is served, and on Sundays as well It was now one o’clock, and from shops and offices a fresh number was coming in. He passed out of the dining room with its winter fire and bright pictures into the lounge, where girls were gathered about a blazing hearth. Some wore reading on the easy cushioned chairs, others were busy with their sewing. . One was intent at the writmg table, which is always ready for use, Tbyy were spending the remainder of their free hour in leisurely warmth and comfort, before the afternoon’s work. I was again assured that most of them connection with the Y.W.C.A beyond making it their rendezvous at lunch-time. They are represented on the Cafeteria Committee, that, they may make any suggestions they wish for. ’ts improvement. The impression? I received of the cafeteria, its efficiency, its comfort its perfectly-served meals, it? attitude of friendliness and welcome to all who came, were wholly delightful. My only wonder was that more of Dunedin's women and girls do not avail themselves of this excellent scheme, which both from the material and social viewpoint, is ideal.