Originally published in The Vidette-Messenger of Porter County on December 11, 1940.
Help Offered To Family Left Destitute By Fire
Several movements were afoot today in an effort to extend aid to the Dunklebarger family of Wheeler after fire Tuesday had left a widow and four children homeless.
Mrs. Ethel Dille of the county welfare department announced that an immediate investigation of the situation would be conducted by that office to determine the amount of aid needed. She said the Wheeler unit of the Red Cross would no doubt offer some assistance since the loss of a home by any family in dire circumstances could be considered “an emergency.”
At the same time an appeal was issued by Mrs. E.F. VanNess from the relief room of the Valparaiso Woman’s Club for clothing which might be given to the mother and youngsters. The mother, Mrs. VanNess said, wears a size 44 dress. In addition there is one girl of high school age, one girl in the eight grade, and twin boys who are sophomores in high school.
Persons having clothing that could be used are urged to send it to the Woman’s Club building by Saturday noon. Those having bedding and furniture which might be contributed are asked not to send these articles to the club building, but instead to call 932R, telling what items are offered.
In the third instance of proffered aid, a local man called at The Vidette-Messenger office this morning early, volunteering $10 to a fund for the family if the newspaper would act as an intermediary and accept other cash donations. For those who wish to contribute, The Vidette-Messenger will assume the responsibility of seeing that the money is placed in the hands of the mother.
Meanwhile, it was assured today that other needy families of Valparaiso and vicinity will be remembered on Christmas with baskets of food and other articles.
This was revealed today with the meeting Monday night of representatives of some 23 local organizations at the office of the county welfare department in the court house. Other groups not represented signified their intention to cooperate in making this Christmas one of joy for those in distress.
Mrs. Ethel Dile, county welfare director, was elected permanent chairman of the Christmas Basket Clearing committee, and Miss Betty Lou Nichols, also of the welfare department, was named secretary.
Among those present at the meeting was Major Harry Strissel, Gary corps commander of the Salvation Army. He announced that his organization will assist the local groups this year. Last year the Salvation Army provided 35 baskets in Valparaiso. At a single kettle in Valparaiso last Saturday, more than $17 was obtained. The kettle will be put out again next Saturday and maintained from that date until Christmas eve, Major Strissel said.
This is the fourth year Christmas baskets have been distributed under the supervision of the Christmas Basket Clearing committee. The Porter county welfare office serves as a clearing committee to prevent duplication of gifts. The organization giving away baskets are in sole charge of the distribution.
In the main the baskets contain food articles, but some organizations will give toys and clothing in addition.
