Fund-raising and support for Belgium

'Poor little Belgium'

When war broke out in 1914 New Zealanders rallied to the aid of 'poor little Belgium'. By early 1915, more than £37,000 had been sent to the British and Belgian Relief Fund in London. Mayors in towns and cities set up relief funds to handle donations of goods and money. Auckland's Belgian Relief Fund raised over £10,000 within a few weeks.

Shows, galas and sports tournaments donated their proceeds, and some shops and workers pledged weekly donations. As well as money, consignments of clothing, bedding and food — including 'fat sheep' and apples — were sent to Belgium to assist those affected by the war. More ...

Women's fund-raising

War is traditionally men's business, but thousands of women across New Zealand supported the war effort through their involvement in patriotic and fund-raising organisations. More than 900 of these groups operated during the war, and, together, they raised nearly £5 million for Belgian and French relief funds.

Groups of women also worked together to produce the comforts that soldiers needed: shirts, underclothing, socks and darning kits (called 'housewives'). From 1916 the Dominion Parcels Scheme sent parcels to soldiers overseas at the rate of 24,000 per month. For lonely and anxious wives and mothers, this work provided a sense of connection with their loved ones serving overseas. More ...