A Glimpse into the Home Front: Care Packages from Ridgetown
This artifact, shared by Helen Danby, IODE Ontario Archivist, offers a powerful snapshot of life on the home front during the First World War.
It lists men serving overseas who received parcels from the Kent Chapter IODE Ridgetown—simple in form, but deeply meaningful. Each name represents a soldier remembered, supported, and connected to home. Many of these individuals are featured in hero profiles on this website.
Formed in 1914 at the outbreak of war, the Kent Chapter IODE Ridgetown was part of the broader work of the Imperial Order Daughters of the Empire. Its members organized, fundraised, and sent essential supplies overseas—ensuring soldiers knew they were not forgotten. The chapter remained active in the community until 2014.
The artifact also references the “Children of the Empire,” an IODE program that helped disadvantaged British children relocate to Canada—highlighting how wartime efforts were closely tied to broader social initiatives.
In addition to the names it records, the document captures a moment in IODE history, listing national officers and the location of its head office at the time.
Together, these details offer a reminder that the story of war is not only fought overseas—but sustained at home through dedication, compassion, and community.
