World Emergency, circa 1940-1946

Documents concerning YWCA involvement in World War II relief efforts in Africa, Australia, the Balkans, Belgium and Canada. During World War II, the YWCA of the U.S.A. cooperates with the World YWCA, YWCA organizations around the world, and other relief agencies to assist with the global cause. Reports and correspondence from secretaries visiting affected countries describe the needs of the people, the political situations locally, current YWCA relief work and future needs. In the United States in addition to sending secretaries to assist abroad, fund raising efforts collect money to support the relief work. In Australia and Canada hostess houses are established to entertain military members from all allied forces and women working with the war effort. The YWCA centers in these countries also serve as meeting points and centers for coordinating work. Occupied countries such as Belgium, Bulgaria and Greece, request funds and people to help those affected by war. Relief in the Balkans is supported by the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration. In Africa, YWCA centers welcome military men and women in addition to assisting the women and girls of Africa. War relief efforts assist with many problems caused by war including hunger, displacement, clothes shortages and social and mental welfare.