Charity flag, flagday emblem

World War I charity lapel flag with fastening pin issued by the YMCA to raise money for its 'hut' fund. The paper emblem shaped to represent the YMCA triangle logo is lithographed with an image of a world war I recreation hut. The emblem was purchased by Ernest King on 23rd May 1917, during a street collection on 'YMCA Hut Day'
Both the Church Army and the Young Men's Christian Association raised funds during World War I to erect portable recreation huts for soldiers both at military bases in the UK and in the fields of war. As well as a welcome relief from the trenches the YMCA huts provided soldiers with food, drink, and free writing paper.
Flagdays were an established feature of London life during World War I. Each charity was alloted specific flagdays where volunteers, often women and young girls, would stand on the streets carrying a collecting tin and tray of emblems offered in exchange for a cash donation. As well as raising money for charity they were also a way for Londoners to visibly show their support for the war effort.