1914-12-23ahal

With Christmas day looming ever so, last minute preparations were being made to provide the fixings for a hearty meal to be distributed to some of Hamilton’s neediest citizens:

          “The old Duncan lithographing building on South Macnab street was a scene of the greatest activity in the butcher line yesterday afternoon and evening when a corps of butchers supervised by William Stroud sliced up 130 quarters of beef which will be used for distribution tomorrow.

          “The work of the men under Mr. Stroud’s command was a sight to be remembered. The men worked with a will and a skill which was gratifying. The roasts were cut in pieces of from six to twelve pounds.”¹

               ¹ “Christmas Cheer : Hundred and Thirty Quarters Cut Up for Needy”

          Hamilton Herald.  December 23, 1914

          For the first time, each benevolent society or caring businesses would not handle the distribution of their donations separately:

          “As the work of taking care of the needy has been entirely left in the hands of the united relief officials, there will not be any basket distribution by other societies, as they have all combined. Each basket will contain food for a good substantial dinner, along with the roast of beef.”¹

               The Salvation Army did not combine its efforts with the united relief officials :

          “The Salvation army will provide a dinner for the poor on Christmas day, and will look after the jail prisoners. The money for such work is being raised from contributions dropped into the pots over which a Salvation army lassy or lad is watching.”¹