Blue Like You

Archive for the ‘Poverty’ Category

Tonight the local CTV affiliate gave an update on the Kerwin Harrison story. The plight of the poor homeless man whose meager belongings were torched by vandals has certainly moved a lot of people, including myself.

Kerwin didn’t want to use a homeless shelter, because it meant abandoning his two dogs. Thanks to the publicity, a kind animal rescuer who lives on a farm took Kerwin in.

Tonight, an update revealed that Kerwin and his dogs are doing well. He said he has been overwhelmed by the generosity of the local community. His dogs are happy, warm and well-fed as is Kerwin. He is earning his keep by helping out at the farm, but plans to move back to Waterloo Region very soon. Apparently RIM may offer him a part-time job.

Anyway, I thought I would share this good news with all of you who were touched by the original story.

This story in today’s Record has been the lead story in the local news for a few days now - A New Home, a Fresh Start.

I find it shocking that someone who worked as a temp for a company like RIM as recently September could find himself out on the street so soon afterwards.

The response from the community has been overwhelming for Kerwin Harrison and his two dogs.

Last night the three of them slept in a warm home for the first time in five weeks; thanks to the generosity of a stranger.

Putting a human face to the poverty of the working poor is very motivating.

I’ll be thinking of Kerwin when I gather food for the Food Bank this Christmas.