Date: March 27, 1931
Location: Northampton, MA
(Original document available here)
The inherent strength of the people and their great recuperative power have been demonstrated again in these recent months in a most impressive way by the American Red Cross. When the drought left a considerable area of our country stricken, the Red Cross officials at once came forward with the explicit declaration that their organization was able to give suitable relief. They asked the public for ten million dollars, which was handsomely oversubscribed. Under their experienced care those in want were fed, clothed and given medical attention. This system of organized voluntary aid met the situation. Normal conditions are returning in the affected territory. Some of it is reported better off than usual. The loss is regrettable, but the national benefit from the exercise of the charitable spirit is large compensation.
If this stood alone it would be remarkable. But it came at a time when nearly every locality had its own problem. Yet the whole nation responded. It turned out that the best resource of the people is themselves. Left alone without the paralyzing interposition of the government, the people have a better opportunity for progress, prosperity and happiness than can ever be secured from any official bureau.
Citation: Calvin Coolidge Says: Dispatches Written by Former-President Coolidge and Syndicated to Newspapers in 1930-1931 (Calvin Coolidge Memorial Foundation)
The Coolidge Foundation gratefully acknowledges the volunteer efforts of Robert Manchester who prepared this document for digital publication.