Although the railway authorities were wonderfully expeditious in getting the trains despatched, still many hours had to be spent at the Creche—days sometimes—and, once or twice, even nights. The scenes when a boat arrived with many hundreds of women and children defy description. Parties were constantly being brought to the rooms by willing and helpful guides. If husband or father was there, he saw his dear ones safely housed, and he himself returned to look after the tickets and baggage. If the mother was in charge, she accompanied her little ones to the Creche, and after seeing them safe and happy, was assisted in collecting her baggage and procuring transportation. Kind hands undressed the babies, washed, warmed and fed them and laid them to sleep in comfort. The older children were also fed and then amused by toys and picture books. Older travellers, completely tired out by the long and often rough voyage, found indeed a warm and steady bed a source of joy. Times and movements of trains were called in the waiting rooms, and to the outgoing trains the travellers were finally escorted, as comfortable and as happy as it was possible to make them.
The Red Cross placed a most efficient trained nurse at the disposal of the Committee, and it is not possible to tell how much her services were appreciated by those who, though not fit for hospital and anxious to complete their journey, were still much in need of care. In a general way, as well as in her professional capacity, the trained nurse rendered services of a very high order. Space does not permit to tell of all the various activities carried on at the Creche—money was exchanged, hotel accommodation secured for those remaining over in Halifax for a few days, telegrams were sent, meal tickets given to those who needed them on the trains, babies were supplied with necessaries for travelling, and money was many times given to those who through stress of circumstances had not the wherewithal to complete their journey.
The returned men were always eager to assist in any way they could, and the bands of the Canadian Battalions gave all great pleasure by their delightful music.
Arrangements were made for any needing hospital care; and they were continually visited by members of the Committee while in Halifax City. The military authorities placed an ambulance at the disposal of the Committee for such cases. The Committee had the fullest support and co-operation of the military authorities. They also had the assistance of a hundred workers who gave up all engagements and pleasures when it was known that a boat was expected.
The Creche Committee deeply regretted the departure from Halifax of Mrs. Benson and Mrs. McKelvey Bell, under whom they began their work. The ladies who carried on to the close of operation were:—
| Mrs. McCallum Grant | Hon. Chairman. |
| Mrs. J. G. McDougall | Chairman. |
| Mrs. Hector McInnes | Vice-Chairman. |
| Mrs. W. A. Henry | Secretary. |
| Mrs. W. E. Thompson | Treasurer. |
Mrs. David McKeen.
Mrs. G. S. Campbell.
Mrs. Clarence MacKinnon.
Miss Jessie MacKenzie.