RAETIHI BUSH FIRES

Otago Witness, Issue 3347, 8 May 1918, Page 26

RAETIHI BUSH FIRES

RELIEF ASSOCIATION FORMED. WELLINGTON, May 4. Afc the last, meeting of the Raetihi Fire Relief Committee all moneys, assets, and liabilities were transferred to the Waimarino Fire Relief Association (Incorporated). A resolution . was passed expressing appreciation of the valuable services rendered by Mr E. J. Barry, .also of the marked ability and courtesy displayed by him in carrying cut the duties of chairman of the committee. The new association was inaugurated on th« 9 recommendation of Mr Ferguson, chairman of the National Efficiency Board, that there might be a legally constituted corporate body to deal with large gums. At the first meeting of the incorporated association, Mr T. A. Harris, solicitor, Raetihi, was elected chairman. To date £9OOO has been received in cash donations from the public. Of this £2OOO has been- expended on tents, beds, bedding, etc., and all requiring relief in the shape of shelter and clothing have had their wants supplied. The machinery for the distribution of funds is now completed. Careful investigation is being made into all claims, and the distribution of cash grants in all deserving case 3 will be proceeded with immediately. It is anticipated that between 300 and 350 claims •will be dealt with.