An Appeal for Widows and Orphans of Colored French Soldiers

Title

An Appeal for Widows and Orphans of Colored French Soldiers

Creator

Unknown

Identifier

WWP21628

Date

1917 July 12

Source

Library of Congress, Woodrow Wilson Papers, 1786-1957

Language

English

Text

AN APPEAL FOR WIDOWS AND ORPHANS OF COLORED FRENCH SOLDIERS

A campaign is being conducted in Norfolk to secure $5000 to alleviate the sufferings of the widows and orphans of colored French soldiers. Four hundred thousand colonial troops have been killed while fighting for France, leaving one million widows and orphans.

We realize you have been heavily burdened by numerous charities, but are confident you will respond to this urgent appeal for help. These people are in destitute circumstances, without food, shelter or clothing, caves in a large measure form their habitation; roots their food and bushes their clothing. Ten cents will feed an orphan for one day; one dollar for ten days; thirty-five dollars for one year. Will you not aid us? Will you not respond to this appeal?

For three years these soldiers bore the brunt of conflict; for three years they fought “to make the world safe for democracy,” for three years they waged your war and fought your battles. Now, that they sleep beneath the sod, will you not send comfort to their widows and orphans?I appeal to you in the name of humanity, which in suffering knows no race nor recognizes no creed.

All contributions will be gratefully received and promptly acknowledged if sent to the Executive Secretary, care of The Journal and Guide, 711-717 Highland Avenue.
Thanking you earnestly in advance for your contribution,

I am,
Charles S. Morris Jr.
Executive Secretary.

Original Format

Enclosure

Files

http://resources.presidentwilson.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/WWI0668A.pdf

Collection

Citation

Unknown, “An Appeal for Widows and Orphans of Colored French Soldiers,” 1917 July 12, WWP21628, World War I Letters, Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum, Staunton, Virginia.