Loss by Lakers was homeless shelter's gain

By Brian R. Ballou, Globe Staff

The Lakers' loss in the NBA championships turned out to be a Boston homeless shelter's gain.

Governor Deval Patrick traveled to the Women's Lunch Place on Newbury Street today to officially turn over his winnings -- an assortment of California-produced foods -- from a bet with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger of California over the Boston Celtics-Los Angeles Lakers series.

Patrick wagered 17 pounds of clam chowder on the Celtics during the championship excitement, while Schwarzenegger bet a large quantity of olives, oranges, pistachios, cheese, and raisins.

The wager was all in fun, but the director of the women's shelter struck a serious note at the ceremony, which was attended by about 50 homeless people.

"We ask that you please not forget homeless individuals," Sharon Reilly said. "Not only can we beat LA, we can also beat chronic homelessness."

Patrick told the crowd, "I don't have all the answers, but we are working very hard to find the answers. ... I want you to know that I see you."

After Patrick had left and the event was over, the homeless women sat down to a meal made from the California ingredients.

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