Evening Republican, Volume 21, Number 9, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 19 January 1918 — For The Boys and Girls. [ARTICLE]

For The Boys and Girls.

The Republican is interested in the poor people of the city. It dislikes to hear that any are suffering, for clothing, provisions or fuel. It reported the case of Mrs. Charles Elder just as it was represented by good reliable citizens of the city. The article was written in the spirit of kindness and sympathy and had but one idea. - That idea was to help this woman and her children. - Often misfortune is partly due to the invitation extended by the person it visits. But one thing sure the result of this visit should not be imposed "upon innocent children. . This most vital and important thing, about this whole matter is the possibility that from this home may be turned out in the world, three young people who may continue to be the objects of charity. Our plea is to give these children and every other child in Rensselaer a chance to become useful men and women. The sting of proverty lulls ambiL.on and deadens every sensibility worthy of cultivation.

It is a matter of chagrin to Mrs. Either that she must accept alms. But it would be her greater concern as well as tiie community’s duty to see that the ill fate that has overtaken her does not continue throughout life with her three children. As we said in our first article these are bright children, capable of becoming useful members of society. They should be kept in school everyday. The boy should not have to quit school to work. These children should be dressed tidy and comfortable. It is absolutely impossible for the mother to earn enough money to care for her family. The work she must do away from home robs her children of the care and attention they should have. This neglect results in many things detrimental to the welfare of the children. Children reared in homes under such conditions are very liable to have wrong ideas pi not sufficient faith in their own ability to make good. Just lately Rensselaer has sent away two boys who came to their downfall on account of poverty and the of proper home environment.

It is up to every community to look to the future usefulness of its youths. If home relations are not what they should be, they must be changed. Whatever Mrs. Elder’s attitude may be we insist that her children are the charge of the community and that the community is responsible for their future happiness as well as usefulness. We are not, alarmists, but we are for the boys and girls and we want every one of then; to have a good square chance.