Attention: GCHS Alumni and Friends,

At this time of year our Thanksgiving tables are set, family circles around and we give thanks. Symbolically we enact the gratitude expressed by the early Pilgrim settlers for being saved from starvation by their indigenous neighbors.

I wonder. Have you ever questioned just how the Pilgrims got into such a mess? I mean, to find themselves in such dire circumstances. Poor planning? Personality defects? Lack of self- reliance?

Certainly, none of us needs to be told just how difficult life can be. Under the best of circumstances, the road is never easy. A few roadblocks, bad luck, and the best of plans go awry. So, when we look around our tables to gauge just how everyone is doing, we aren't envious of someone's success nor bragging of our own. We are making certain that everyone's plate is full. We write today to let you know that someone at our table has an empty plate.

Jack Laverdiere is in dire straits. As a result of some egregious bad fortune, bad people, and some may add, poor planning he has been homeless since July (lost his home of 40 years). We have recently managed to get him off the streets into an apartment which we hope to sustain until he is able to stand on his own again. He is alone in his struggle as his life partner Yasim died of a heart attack just a few years ago and he has no family as his parents and four siblings have all died. With no human affection to sustain him Jack refused to give up his two dogs to go into a shelter. Can you blame him?

We are reaching out to classmates, Facebook friends, and who knows who else might read this and find it in their hearts to help. Jack is clean and sober and has a business with loyal clients. He just needs a place to stand. Will you help?