Hospitals
The hardships associated with the war became clear to Parisians after wounded soldiers—convalescents or permanently disabled, some in casts, and some with amputated limbs or blinded—started streaming into the city from the front. Because of its location, Paris became home to over twenty military hospitals, in addition to existing local public hospitals. Military hospitals were set up in high schools, hotels and even public spaces like the Grand Palais. Much of the medical staff, especially nurses, consisted of volunteers recruited by charitable organizations. Large numbers of foreigners were evidence of international solidarity with the French war effort, including the slightly exotic Japanese hospital in the Astoria Hotel. These facilities tried to improve the daily lives of convalescing soldiers by offering free coffee or entertainment. Fundraisers were held to help wounded soldiers, and institutions were created to help disabled veterans return to work or to teach them new trades. Buying items made by veterans came to be seen as a patriotic act.
