The Waterbury Democrat., 1946-12-11
A Helping Hand


 Last Saturday night the Zindah Grotto of this city presented some 10 acts of vaudeville for the chil- dren at the SouthbuIy Training School. and no doubt provided them with the most joyous time they've had in weeks. Professional clowns, recruited all the way from New York, offered barrels of fun to youngsters of all ages. but hearty applause after every act also indi- cated the youthful audience deeply appreciated the efforts of the local entertainers.
 The splendid work being done at the Southbury Training School to aid youngsters of subnormal intelli- gence vertically deserves greater recognition than it has yet gained. And in world in which so many destructive forces prevail. it is heartening to note the efforts of the courageous faculty and staff who are molding unfortunate youngsters into independent and happy adults, prepared to make their way.
 Considered the most outstanding institution of its type in America, the attractive schools. cottages. and administrative buildings cover some $50 acres high up in the hills. Home atmosphere, now recognized as es- sential to the proper development of children, Is provided by housing in spacious cottages. under the su- pervision of a house mother or la ther. Nothing has been overlooked that might make for comfort, health and well-being. Large win dows provide plenty of sunlight and fresh air. Comfortable, bright fur nishings and pastels used in decora- tion create a cozy, cheery atmo- sphere, so important to mental health. The very latest equipment for kitchens, heating and sanita- ton are used A l200-acre farm provides some 1900 children with an abundance of milk and fresh vegetables.
 It is apparent that both faculty and staff are devoted to their hu- manitarian work. House mother: and fathers in attendance last Sat urday night watched their charges closely and tenderly. Teachers proudly display the work oi their pupils.
 Many of the children, bordering adolescence reveal a second-gradt intelligence quotient when admitted to Southbury. Specialized study oi school subjects and training in vo- cations under skilled teachers equiI the children to become useful, self sufficient citizens and to make a livelihood in a competitive world When training is complete, home: will be established in various cities throughout Connecticut, where the states's charges may reside, undei proper supervision, while working at vocation for which they were trained.
 Ernest Rozelle. and his cap- able staff, deserve a glowing tribute for their splendid work.
 To those who visited Southbury Training School Saturday night anc asked if they might in some way of- fer a lending hand. MT. Rozelle men, toned that inexpensive Christina; gifts would be most welcome. Many wealthy children are being trained at Southbury, but since God SC loved the common man, he made many of them. the majority oi youngsters are from the lowel strata. There are far more thar one would think possible who have no one to remember them or Christmas morn.
 A small gift for one or several oi these unfortunate children vii make the Christmas star shin' brighter for him and for those whS give. Avoid intricate games.