GRASSROOTS: Heaven Can Wait, Carlson's Can't

(Grassroots: Page 14)

By Todd Curran
Between the Santa Claus Parade, Moonlight Madness and celebrating their 4th Anniversary, Carlson's on MacLeod was THE place to celebrate in High River on December 3rd.
Beyond the revelry, excellent music by the Rembetika Hipsters and prime parade seating, the jovial crowd also packed the house to support Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue. As admission was by donation, the rescue shelter was showered with gifts ranging from pet toys to cash, all toward a good cause.

Heaven Can Wait provides shelter, care and nourishment to abandoned, abused and homeless domestic animals within High River and the surrounding area. This includes spaying/ neutering, providing vaccinations and tattoo identification and treatment of any other health issues. The rescuers source new homes for the animals through the use of advertising, media, event planning, internet, open houses, networking and any other such opportunity that arises to promote adoptions.
“We brought in about $1450 for Heaven Can Wait,” says Don Carlson, owner of Carlson's on MacLeod. “We had such a good crowd and when the parade was over, everyone on the street came in. It worked out very well for them.”
In addition to the heated patio overlooking the parade route, Don and his staff brought in more support for the animal shelter by making hot chocolate and popcorn to give out. “We do tons of fundraisers here,” he says. “We've raised thousands of dollars for women's shelters, cancer research, Museum of the Highwood, Abbeyfield House, and we're having 70 people in need come for dinner on Christmas Day.”
The free dinner comes with all the trimmings – turkey, ham, gifts for the kids, veggies, potatoes dessert. Don tells me that Santa is even making an appearance! “The plan is that our guests can get a good meal and take leftovers home too,” says Don. “This is just to help some people in need have a lovely Christmas.”
The supportive response from generous locals for events at Carlson's has been spectacular. “So many people want to help out with this dinner that we've actually had to turn volunteers away,” Don says. “People are donating food and Christmas crackers; it's going to be a great day.”
Register for the Free Turkey Dinner at Carlson's through the Salvation Army by calling 403-652-2195 extension 21. This is an alcohol-free event and additional food donations can be made by calling Don or Brenda Carlson at 403-601-8774.
For more information on Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue phone Kim at 403-601-2520 or visit
www.heavencanwait.ca.