Local artist Raymond Shorty had been set to hold a show of his work in May before he and his son, Durrand Henry, lost everything when his Porter Creek mobile home burned last month.

While it would be impossible to replace the items that make a house a home, one of Shorty's friends is hoping to at least help the father and son get back on their feet.

'It's devastating and traumatic,' Jessie Dawson, who's started taking up a collection of anything and everything for the pair, said in an interview today.

Dawson has known Shorty for most of his life and wanted to do something to help out while Shorty concentrates on finding a new place to live. They're currently staying with family and friends.

Dawson decided to put out a call for the items after going to visit Shorty to see how he's doing. She asked him if he would mind her taking in donations for him.

'It's a matter of keeping his chin up,' she said.

While Dawson is taking up the collection for a longtime friend, it's something that should be done for anyone going through something like this. She recalled her grandparents telling her that help should be offered to those in need whenever possible.

'We, as northern people, that's what we do,' said Dawson.

Donations can be dropped off at the Kwanlin Dun Health Centre at 35 McIntyre Dr. or alternatively those looking to donate can call Dawson at 633-7800.

Anything ranging from cash, furniture, clothing, kitchen items, bedding and art supplies for drawing and painting are greatly appreciated, she said.