This image was taken for a story that ran in The Manawatu Evening Standard on 05 May 1958, page 9: "The children of Willard Home seen entertaining the many guests who attended the home's 37th birthday on Saturday."
Willard Home was established by the Women’s Christian Temperance Union. It was a home for orphaned babies and children and also children whose families were unable to care for them. The Home started operating 4 September 1920 with 10 children. It is believed the Home was officially opened in 1921. A dormitory was added in 1921, increasing the number of children able to be cared for to 19.
Additions to Willard Home in 1928 extended accommodation for staff and children. 25 children were able to be accommodated by 1928.