The Marien-Verein and the Infant Care Institution in Meran

Austria.

P. Meran, 5 Jan. On New Year's Eve, the first year of activity of our Marien-Verein, which in the past year brought an infant care institution (Kleinkinderbewahr-Anstalt) into being here, came to a close. Orderly procedure therefore required both the election of a new board and the presentation of the results achieved by the previous administration. Both proceedings took place on the appointed day in the presence and under the direction of our industrious dean, the burgomaster, and parish cooperator Brirner acting as treasurer. The financial accounting showed so brilliant a result that it deserves to become known in wider circles, all the more so as outside benefactors also contributed to it. Through the sacrifices and efforts of this ladies' association, not only have roughly 20 poor children been continually maintained, cared for, instructed, and provided for in the institution since Candlemas, but there was furthermore a net surplus of 2,200 fl., alongside a stock of provisions that might well suffice for half a year—a result that merits all the more recognition when one considers how limited the population and means of our small town are, — particularly at this time. Who would not have wished that the noble ladies who previously stood at the helm might remain in their office henceforth? Yet not a single one among them allowed herself to be re-elected. Their delicate tact led the noblewomen to recognize that their re-election might all too easily prejudice the charitable institution's popularity among the lower classes of the population. For this reason, they urged that the election of the board be directed this time without further ado toward burgher women. At the same time, by accepting their election to the committee, they showed that they had no intention whatever of depriving the institution's welfare of their insight, experience, and affectionate further dedication. The election of this year's president fell entirely unanimously upon the equally industrious and sensible Mrs. Anna Kuen, local apothecary's wife. May God bless the work of this year's board as that of the previous year, and enable the Marien-Verein to extend this benefit, previously accessible only to children up to six years of age, to those of more advanced years as well! A rich heavenly reward be granted to all regular and extraordinary members of this fine association, no less than to the good Sister of Mercy who manages the direct operation of the institution with such generally recognized skill!