St. Matthew students setting an example

Three students from St. Matthew's -- Colleen, Danelle and Winnie -- were at Shepherds of Good Hope on Thursday for a tour. They wanted to see exactly what we do and who we help. They were so impressed that after they finished their tour, they headed to the mall where they convinced a couple of local companies to donate some beauty products to them that they brought back to the shelter to hand out to the women in our care.

This is the power of a tour. I believe when people see firsthand the men and women we serve and the innovative programs we run, they can't help but want to give.

It's also wonderful to see youth philanthropy in action. Too often teens are painted with the same brush in a negative way. Colleen, Danelle and Winnie came to Shepherds of Good Hope with an open mind and were impressed with the services we offer to Ottawa's most vulnerable men and women.

Thank you, Colleen, Danelle and Winnine for your initiative. The women will enjoy these beauty products. I also wanted to thank the two companies that helped the young ladies on their quest.