sustained efforts of the committee members, and to the whole- hearted support of the residents in the different kaifong districts. (See Appendix XVII).
139. Total membership rose from 317,191 in March 1956 to 326,800 in March 1957.
140. The provision of more free schools and informal classes is still the primary object of the kaifong associations. There are now 188 classes compared with 138 last year. The number of students increased from 5,002 to 8,521.
141. Immediate assistance was rendered to those whose livelihood was seriously affected as a result of the Kowloon Riots in October, 1956. The Kaifong welfare associations and the women's welfare clubs helped to distribute 106,000 shares of dry rations, and 5,000 food parcels to some 31,500 persons, mostly residents of resettlement estates.
142. The kaifong associations continued to play a leading part in emergency relief. During the year, they gave assistance to 7,830 victims of 19 natural disasters.
143. In observance of the 3rd Anniversary of "Kaifong Day" on the 23rd October, various forms of celebrations were held by the kaifong associations in each district. It was regrettable that many programmes had to be cancelled as a result of the Kowloon Disturbances. Activities were confined mainly to entertainment and gifts to children and old people.
144. Over 10,000 cotton padded coats and quilts were dis- tributed to the needy during the winter by kaifong associations. 145. The "Fat Choy" Drive, under the auspices of the Tiger Standard and handled by the kaifong welfare associations, was a big event of the year. A total of $206,000 brought happiness to approximately 140,000 poor people on the occasion of the Chinese New Year. A Distribution Committee was specially formed for this purpose, and did a good job.
146. The three Women's Welfare Clubs maintained their regular functions and have shown steady progress both in their membership and welfare activities. The significance of this new women's movement lies not in slogans and publicity, but in quiet steady work on a sound foundation. A joint celebra- tion on the international "Women's Day" on the 18th March,
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