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61
Boot Club.
That children should be properly shod with correctly fitting
and weather-proof footwear is a health matter of some importance
to the child, and it is fitting that mention should be made
in this Report of the meritorious voluntary activities of all concerned
in the working of the Schools' Boot Club.
The following is the Chairman's Report for 1944:—
BROMLEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS' BOOT CLUB
COMMITTEE.
Chairman's Report to the Members of the Committee.
During the year ended 31st December, 1944, the Boot Club
has continued to function most satisfactorily, although, owing to
the evacuation of scholars from this area, there has been a
decrease in the number of contributors and number of vouchers
issued. There were 642 vouchers for footwear issued during
the year, and the total purchase of footwear amounted to
£495 15s 3d., compared with £649 2s. 9d. for the previous year.
Necessitous cases brought to the notice of the Committee
during the year have been recommended to the Bromley
Benevolent Association, and I am informed that thirty-five pairs
of boots and shoes have been supplied free of charge to scholars
in Bromley at a cost to the Bromley Benevolent Association of
£31 0s, 0d.
No doubt it is your wish that the Committee should record
their appreciation of the valuable work of the teachers who continue
to carry out the collection of scholars' contributions and
Suing of vouchers to tradesmen.
I think we may be assured that the scheme is serving a very
useful purpose not only in encouraging thrift, but also to obtain
good footwear at reduced prices. In this connection, you will
note from the Hon. Secretary's statement that the sum of
approximately £40 0s. 0d. has been earned in discount during
the year.
As you are no doubt aware, the Education Act, 1944, in
section 51, makes provision for assistance being given by the
Education Authority in the matter of clothing (which includes
Footwear) in cases of financial necessity ; but this, as far as one
can tell, should not in any way affect our Thrift Scheme, which
will we hope, continue to give the satisfactory service it has
don for so long past.
I must once again record my appreciation of the work of
the Hon. Secretary, Treasurer and Auditor.
F. R. GODDEN,
Chairman.