Friends Remember As Gifts Are Given

John Gillaspy, a beloved friend and mentor, was remembered by his co-workers of CVS Pharmacy on November 30, 2011. More than 50 CVS employees gathered and gave more than 140 teddy bears to low-income children living in Richmond who are part of Catholic Charities of the East Bay’s (CCEB) Family Literacy Program and Headstart.

“The children were thrilled to receive pre-selected, customized teddy bears built at Build a Bear by CVS employees. This may be the only gift some of these children will receive for the holidays,” said Marta Olivares, Coordinator of CCEB’s Family Literacy Program. “We can’t thank CVS and its employees enough.”

“John was an inspiration to all who knew him,” says Lisa Bryant, Regional Loss Prevention Manager for CVS Pharmacy. “We gave 25 bears away last year, and when some of the children went away empty handed John ran out and purchased more bears for them. This event is a wonderful tribute to his memory. Look at how many CVS employees responded this year!”

John Gillaspy passed away on May 25, 2011 at the age of 54.

More on the event at http://www.examiner.com/travel-in-san-francisco/friends-remember-as-gifts-are-given

To learn more about CCEB's Family Literacy Program visit this page.