Got any of this stuff?

The Tessa and David Walker Christmas Homeless Drive David Walker was a homeless person living on the streets of our Nations Capital for many years. Always by his side was his beloved canine friend Tessa. She was a beautiful Collie-Shepherd mix. Because she came first, as she was his best friend, David made sure that Tessa was comfortable and fed. I met David when one day Tessa came through the doors of the Ottawa Humane Society, where I worked. It was a surprise to find out that Tessa was an eight-year-old street dog. She looked and acted as if she was two. Periodically over the years, Tessa would pay us a visit at the shelter. Each time David would do whatever he had to do in order to get her back. Sadly, in 2001, we had to put Tessa down. She was old and it was her time. So with David by her side and I by David’s side, she left us. David was never the same after that day. The following summer, we lost David as well. An accident ended his life before any of us who loved him could say goodbye. He taught us compassion, patience and humour. Now David and Tessa are together again. In their memory I have created the Christmas Homeless Drive. To collect and distribute articles/supplies needed by those who still live on our streets. To provide material comforts and to show our compassion and kinship toward others, at a time of year when it is needed the most. We have learned from David and Tessa that we can all make a difference in each other’s lives. One small gesture can make all the difference in the world to someone in need. Along with this letter is a list of the articles/ supplies that are needed to make this drive possible. I hope you will join in my efforts to bring hope to those who need it the most. Sincerely, Heather Ryerse SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR FALL/CHRISTMAS HOMELESS DRIVE Gently used or new: backpacks blankets running shoes, boots socks mens jackets sweaters/sweatshirts long-sleeved shirts and t-shirts scarves, hats, gloves pants towels/facecloths portable mugs watches and wallets (new only) men’s underwear food and beverage vouchers/gift cards snacks and other non-perishable foods travel size toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, skin moisturizer toothbrushes travel size laundry detergent, Kleenex muffins, thermoses and disposable coffee cups, sugar packets, creamers, stir sticks and ground coffee (for volunteers to give to homeless on day of delivery) For Ottawa’s Homeless Animals at the Humane Society: dry and canned cat and dog food (unopened) food pellets/seed for small animals, birds and rodents (all food unopened please) gently used blankets/towels are needed Call Lisa 613-223-6689 to arrange for drop off or pick up before December 5/2007. Thank you. See December 2006 for a pic of Dave and Tessa