Kingsgate Mall raises funds to benefit Lookout Community programs

From the desk of Karen O’Shannacery, Executive Director

Thank You Volunteer Dave!

Microfinancing Update

Oreo finds a home too

In The Community

Livingroom Dropin Activity Centre

After a couple of weeks at the Yukon Shelter, Jason found a place to live.  It was in New Westminster, close to a new job, a skytrain ride away from the Vancouver Shelter. He and his long-time Corgi companion, Oreo, were eager to get to their own place, to free up a bed for someone else who would have to spend the night on the streets.

But two things stood in the way of his immediate departure. He couldn’t figure out a way to transport Oreo to his new place, a situation further complicated when Oreo developed mobility problems. Staff coaxed the dog, trying to determine what the problem was. Although not in any pain, he seemed paralyzed in his back legs.

Manager’s Assistant, Lindsay, immediately called around for a vet who could look at him on short notice, and for free.  She whisked Oreo off to the vet, who examined him, diagnosing a pinched nerve (a condition not uncommon in Corgis), and gave him some medication.

Back at the Shelter, Jason and staff worked out the details for their move. Although there was no one with the proper licensing classification available on a Friday night that could transport a person, no such rules existed for transporting a bag or a dog. Because he was moving to a suite that was close to another Lookout Shelter, arrangements were made for a meeting place, and transfer. Jason took public transit, and a staff member drove the dog and Jason’s knapsack to the New Westminster Shelter.

In New Westminster, Oreo was warmly welcomed, carried to his prepared bed, food and water laid out, and he was quietly fussed over. Jason met him a short time later, and, reunited with his old friend, took him to their new home.