Katie Menez Defends Former HALO Employees

I have been copied on an email that was sent to the Contra Costa Times today by Ms. Katie Menez who spoke with Rowena Coetsee prior to her article on HALO.  As a volunteer and shift leader, she is defending Ms. Renee Franceschini and the angle the Times took on their story which hinted at inappropriate behavior with a minor.

The letter refutes information provided in the Contra Costa Times article and offers support to Ms. Tamera Reed and Renee Franceschini. Ms. Menez letter below was sent to executive editor Richard Butler.

Dear Mr. Butler,

My name is Katie Menez, I was a shift leader at H.A.L.O House up until 7/20/12. I am probably the person referred to by Rowena Coetsee  in the 7/27/12  article as the volunteer who had her 10 year old child volunteering with her. I cannot begin to express my sickness as to what is going on with H.A.L.O. I think we have lost focus.

I have personally worked with the 17 year old boy that is being brought into question. Never was I worried for my 2 daughter’s safety. When I found out about the article I discussed it with my husband, he took it upon himself to ask my daughter about whether or not she felt uncomfortable around this young man. When he posed the question to her she literally looked at him like he was crazy and why would he be asking her such a stupid question.

I spoke with Rowena a couple of days ago in regards to this whole situation. I never thought the article was going to take this angle. I think the only concern should be where are the dogs? How are they being cared for? The dogs were the reason I chose to volunteer at H.A.L.O. I have spent months there with my 3 kids building a relationship with the animals.

Never when we walked through the doors did I stop and wonder who Renee had in her living quarters or did I feel it was inappropriate. These are the facts as I know them….Tamara Reed was a true advocate for the animals….Renee in my opinion went above and beyond her caretaker responsibilities with the dogs.

H.A.L.O. House was a well oiled machine. I was present at the the July 5th board meeting and no concerns were brought up in regards to Renee.

I am disheartened. I am the public opinion and I will not let this go down quietly.

Sincerely,

Katie Menez